Problem solving question from OG 21ed

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Problem solving question from OG 21ed

by pmm » Tue May 04, 2010 10:40 pm
Of the three-digit integers greater than 700, how many have two digits that are equal to each other and the remaining digit different from the other two?

A.90
B. 82
C. 80
D. 45
E. 36


OA C

The problem I faced with it is that the process used even in the OG was too lenghty. I don't see how using such an elaborated process can help us in GMAT. If anyone knows a quick way of solving this problem please share.
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by rajeshsources » Tue May 11, 2010 9:43 pm
The simple way is
For any 100 numbers range, the total no.of integers which satisfy given condition == 27. (How? Just see below the answer?)
From the question, the range of numbers is 700 to 999.
so,
700 to 799 === 27 integers
800 to 899 === 27 integers
900 to 999 === 27 integers
--------------------------------
Total === 81 integers

As question asked for the no.of 3-digit integers greater than 700. So, we have to exclude the integer 700.
Total - 1 == 81 - 1 == 80

Ans: 80

=========================================
I'm interested to take some numbers ranging from 100 to 199
I'd like to rewrite this number 100 as in a format
H- Hundredth-digit + T - Tenth-digit + U - Unit's/One's- digit i.e., (H*100 + T*10 + U*1).
We can write as,
1*100 + 0*10 + 0*1
H remains constant for the range of numbers from 100 to 199. We have to check 3 conditions here,
1. If H=1, T - (0-9), U=1 === 101,111,121,131,141,151,161,171,181,191 = total 10 integers, but 111 is not satisfying given condition. Then, we are left with 9 integers.
2. If H=1, T=1, U= (0-9) === then we have 10 possibilities, but 111 is not satisfying the given condition. then left with 9 integers.
3. If H=1, T=(0-9), U=(0-9) & T=U ==== 10 possibilities, but 111 is not satisfying the given condition. then left with 9 integers.
So, that we can conclude for any 100 3-digit numbers, the no.of integers which satisfy condition is 27.
=========================================

By seeing the explanation, it might look like it will take more time. Actually, to make you understand, I have tried my level best to explain you well. Once we get used to, then it won't take much time. However, we are checking the possibilities for the given range & giving answer.

HTH, GOOD LUCK & Have a gr8 day,

Thanks,
Rajesh
,
Loves GMAT....!!!!