GMAT prep question

[andreasonlinegr]

plz help with this!
why the answer is not 81-> (3 x9) x (6x 1/2)= 27 x 3 =81

[Ian Stewart]

plz help with this!
why the answer is not 81-> (3 x9) x (6x 1/2)= 27 x 3 =81

That's all correct, but there's one trap in the question that is very easy to fall into- all of the answer choices are also in boxes. You need to apply the box function to each answer choice to see which one also gives you 81. (it's the box of 27)

[andreasonlinegr]

thank you Ian. I was wondering what I was doing wrong. I need to be more careful. thanks again for your help !! I need more practice..

[TRANGZON]

My answer is that:

9 (in box) = 9x3 = 27

6 (in box) = 6x1/2 = 3

---> 9 (in box) x 6 (in box) = 27x3 = 81

27 (in box) = 3x27 = 81

Therefore, D is an answer.