Forget conventional ways of solving math questions. In DS, Variable approach is the easiest and quickest way to find the answer without actually solving the problem. Remember equal number of variables and independent equations ensures a solution.
In the figure above, if lines l and m are parallel, what is the value of c ?
(1) a = 150
(2) b = 30
In a case of the figure above, we have 3 variables (a, b, and c) and 2 equations (b=c and a+b=180). Thus, we need 1 more equation to match the number of variables and the number of equations. Since, 1) and 2) each has 1 equation, there is high chance that D is the answer.
In a case of 1), it states that a=150. This means that b=c=30. The answer is unique and the condition is sufficient.
In a case of 2), it states b=30. Hence, b=c=30. The answer is unique and the condition is sufficient.
The answer is D.
For cases where we need 1 more equation, such as original conditions with “1 variable”, or “2 variables and 1 equation”, or “3 variables and 2 equations”, we have 1 equation each in both 1) and 2). Therefore, there is 59 % chance that D is the answer, while A or B has 38% chance and C or E has 3% chance. Since D is most likely to be the answer using 1) and 2) separately according to DS definition. Obviously there may be cases where the answer is A, B, C or E.