Max@Math Revolution wrote:The revenue from sales items in 1996 increases by x percent, compared in 1995 and the revenue in 1997 decreases by x percent, compared in 1996. If the revenue from sales items in 1997 decreases by 4 percent, compared in 1995, what is the value of x?
A. 10 B. 15 C. 20 D. 30 E. 35
Let the 1995 revenue = 100.
We can PLUG IN THE ANSWERS, which represent the value of x.
When the correct answer is plugged in, the percent decrease from 1995 to 1997 will be 4%.
D: x = 30%
1996:
After a 30% increase, the resulting revenue = 100 + (30% of 100) = 100+30 = 130.
1997:
After a 30% decrease, the resulting revenue = 130 - (30% of 130) = 130-39 = 91.
Percent decrease from 1995 to 1997 = 100-91 = 9%.
Here, the percent decrease is TOO GREAT.
Eliminate D.
B: x = 15%
1996:
After a 15% increase, the resulting revenue = 100 + (15% of 100) = 100+15 = 115.
1997:
After a 15% decrease, the resulting revenue = 115 - (15% of 115) = 115 - 17.25 = 97.75.
Percent decrease from 1995 to 1997 = 100 - 97.75 = 2.25%.
Here, the percent decrease is TOO SMALL.
Eliminate B.
Since B (15%) yields a percent decrease that is TOO SMALL, while D (30%) yields a percent decrease that is TOO GREAT, the correct answer must be BETWEEN 15% AND 30%.
The correct answer is
C.
Private tutor exclusively for the GMAT and GRE, with over 20 years of experience.
Followed here and elsewhere by over 1900 test-takers.
I have worked with students based in the US, Australia, Taiwan, China, Tajikistan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia -- a long list of countries.
My students have been admitted to HBS, CBS, Tuck, Yale, Stern, Fuqua -- a long list of top programs.
As a tutor, I don't simply teach you how I would approach problems.
I unlock the best way for YOU to solve problems.
For more information, please email me (Mitch Hunt) at
[email protected].
Student Review #1
Student Review #2
Student Review #3
