If x is a positive integer, is x/30 a terminating decimal?

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Forget conventional ways of solving math questions. For DS problems, the VA (Variable Approach) method is the quickest and easiest way to find the answer without actually solving the problem. Remember that equal numbers of variables and independent equations ensure a solution.

The first step of the VA (Variable Approach) method is to modify the original condition and the question. We then recheck the question.

Note that 30 = 2*3*5. Therefore, for x/30 to be a terminating decimal, 3 must be a factor of x (then the 3 from the denominator will cancel out with a 3 from the numerator). So, the question is asking whether x is a multiple of 3.

As this is precisely condition 1), condition 1) is sufficient.

Note that condition 2) does not tell us whether x is a multiple of 3.

Therefore, A is the answer.
Answer: A

In cases where 3 or more additional equations are required, such as for original conditions with “3 variables”, or “4 variables and 1 equation”, or “5 variables and 2 equations”, conditions 1) and 2) usually supply only one additional equation. Therefore, there is an 80% chance that E is the answer, a 15% chance that C is the answer, and a 5% chance that the answer is A, B or D. Since E (i.e. conditions 1) & 2) are NOT sufficient, when taken together) is most likely to be the answer, it is generally most efficient to begin by checking the sufficiency of conditions 1) and 2), when taken together. Obviously, there may be occasions on which the answer is A, B, C or D.

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