UPSC Prelims 2012 · CSAT
Question 46: Data Interpretation
Consider the following information regarding the performance of a class of 1000 students in four different tests :
| Tests | I | II | III | IV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average marks | 60 | 60 | 70 | 80 |
| Range of marks | 30 to 90 | 45 to 75 | 20 to 100 | 0 to 100 |
If a student scores 74 marks in each of the four tests, in which one of the following tests is her performance the best comparatively ?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).
Compare how far 74 sits above the mean in each test, relative to the test's spread. Test II: 14 above a mean of 60, with scores ranging only from 45 to 75, so 74 is near the top of the range. Test I: also 14 above, but over a wider range of 30 to 90. Test III: only 4 above a mean of 70 over a very wide range. Test IV: below the mean of 80. The same margin over a narrower spread is the stronger result, so Test II.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. The margin is 14 as in Test II, but the range is twice as wide, so the performance ranks lower.
- (b) Right. 74 is 14 above the mean and close to the top score of 75, the strongest relative position.
- (c) Wrong. 74 is only 4 above the mean of 70 in a very wide range.
- (d) Wrong. 74 is below the mean of 80.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2012, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.