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.
Is xy < 8?
(1) x < 2 and y < 4
(2) 0 < x < 1/2 and y^2 < 225
There are 2 variables (x,y) in the original condition, thus we need 2 equations to match the number of variables and equations. As 2 equations are given from the 2 conditions, there is high chance that (D) is going to be our answer, but looking at the conditions closely,
1) The answer to the question becomes “yes” if x=y=1, but “no” if x=y=-10. The condition is insufficient.
2) xy is always less than 8 for -15<y<15, 0<x<1/2, making the condition sufficient. Hence the answer becomes (B)