## Que: If |x - 3| > 1, what is the value of x?

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### Que: If |x - 3| > 1, what is the value of x?

by [email protected] Revolution » Wed Aug 11, 2021 9:02 pm

00:00

A

B

C

D

E

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Que: If |x - 3| > 1, what is the value of x?

(1) $$x>-2$$
(2) $$x^2-4x+3=0$$

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### Re: Que: If |x - 3| > 1, what is the value of x?

by [email protected] Revolution » Thu Aug 12, 2021 8:56 pm

00:00

A

B

C

D

E

## Global Stats

Solution: To save time and improve accuracy on DS questions in GMAT, learn and apply the Variable Approach.

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.

Visit https://www.mathrevolution.com/gmat/lesson for details.

Now we will solve this DS question using the Variable Approach.

Let’s apply the 3 steps suggested previously. [Watch lessons on our website to master these 3 steps]

Step 1 of the Variable Approach: Modifying and rechecking the original condition and the question.

We have to find the value of ‘x’ when is |x - 3| > 1.

Since, |x - 3| < 1, then x - 3 < -1 or x – 3 > 1.

=> If x - 3 < -1, then x < 2

=> If x - 3 > 1, then x > 4

We have to find the value of x.

Follow the second and the third step: From the original condition, we have 1 variable (x). To match the number of variables with the number of equations, we need 1 equation. Since conditions (1) and (2) will provide 1 equation each, D would most likely be the answer.

Recall 3- Principles and Choose D as the most likely answer. Let’s look at each condition separately.

Thus, look at condition (1) that tells us that x > -2.

=> x = 5, 6,….

The answer is not unique; so condition (1) alone is not sufficient according to Common Mistake Type 2 which states that the answer should be a unique value.

Condition (2) tells us that $$x^2-4x+3=0$$

=> $$x^2-4x+3=0$$

=> (x - 1) (x - 3) = 0

=> x = 3 or 1

=> x= only 1 (since x<2 or x>4)

The answer is unique; so condition (2) alone is sufficient according to Common Mistake Type 2 which states that the answer should be a unique value.

Condition (2) alone is sufficient.

Therefore, B is the correct answer.