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Is x|y|=|xy|?

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by Max@Math Revolution » Thu Aug 23, 2018 11:47 pm

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[Math Revolution GMAT math practice question]

Is x|y|=|xy|?

1) x>0
2) y>0
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Source: — Data Sufficiency |

by fskilnik@GMATH » Fri Aug 24, 2018 7:57 am
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by Max@Math Revolution » Sun Aug 26, 2018 5:18 pm
=>

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.

Modifying the question:
x|y|=|xy|
=> x|y|-|xy| = 0
=> x|y|-|x||y| = 0
=> |y|(x-|x|) = 0
=> |y|=0 or x-|x| = 0
=> y=0 or x=|x|
=> y=0 or x≥0

Condition 1) is sufficient.
Condition 2) is not sufficient since it tells us nothing about the value of x.

Therefore, A is the answer.
Answer: A
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