Numerical reasoning tests require a limited and elementary understanding of mathematics. The user must combine the skill of graph reading with an understanding of arithmetic involving ratios, currency conversions or percentage changes. In these tests, the factor limiting a perfect score is time. However, there are few simple techniques that can be applied to reduce response intervals, alleviate stress and improve results.
The best way to enhance results is to avoid unnecessary calculations. Much of the time taken during the test is used to input numbers into the calculator. Simplify each calculation by using a common denominator, factorising or ignoring multiplication factors. Consider the following example:
Steward spends $750 per month on groceries in 1997. If Steward spends $850 per month in 1998, what would be Steward’s percentage change in his annual groceries expense?
$$Percentage\;Change = {850*12-750*12 \over 750*12}*100$$
$$Percentage\;Change = {12*10*(85-75) \over 12*10*75 }*100$$
$$Percentage\;Change = ({12*10*85 \over 12*10*75} - {12*10*75 \over 12*10*75})*100$$
$$Percentage\;Change =({85 \over 75} -1)*100$$
The example shows that sums may be rewritten such that factors on the numerator and the denominator can be cancelled. Instead of inputting 18 numbers, it is only necessary to input 8 numbers.
A second tip is to understand calculator short cuts. Keep the answer in variable memory by using the store and recall functions on the calculator. For example, type a calculation and press equals. Then press SHIFT then STO (store) then A to store the value of the solution in A. Press ALPHA followed by A to use the value stored in A for subsequent calculations. The ANS key can be used to recall the value of the previous calculation. Always use a scientific calculator as this makes it easy to edit a sum after typing wrong numbers by mistake. Remember that there is no need to press 0 before writing a decimal. Use the percent symbol on your calculator to speed up calculations.
The time that is saved by reducing calculator input will increase the time available for answering other questions.