Question regarding an example from GMAT Strat. Guide: Number Properties (12th ed.), page 151. If x^3 - x = p, and x is odd, is p divisible by 24? The explanation is quite thorough in offering a solution for all x>1, but does not consider x <= 1. Here are two counterexamples... If x=1, the p=0....

Hi Ray. The missing link is the factoring done to each of the 3 original terms. Term 1: (4^a)(4^2) Term 2: (4^a)(4^0) Term 3: (4^a)(4^1) Since each term has a common factor of (4^a), we can rewrite the original expression as, (4^a)(4^2 - 1 - 4) = (4^a)(11). The factoring does not violate PEMDAS. Doe...

Hi Amar. I will take a stab at addressing your question. Let's begin establishing a baseline for the questions, and then address facts (1) and (2) seperately. We can then address the facts together. To establish a baseline, let's use what is given in the question itself. For any given period, T = V ...

Hi StockMojo. Here's how I would approach this question Fact(1): xy+xz is even. We also know that xy+z is odd. This means that Odd/Even characteristic of z changes when multiplied by x. If z is odd, then xz must be even for the expression xy+xz to be even and xy+z to be odd. Likewise, if z is even, ...

my answer to your proposed question would be exactly the same, assuming your fact 1 means to say that length INCREAES by 3%, not just CHANGES. You need both facts to answer the question, but given both facts, you can find an answer. Please elaborate on which parts are not convincing. Additionally, p...

We want to start by breaking it up into parts. Consider what the remainders of both 7^(12x+3) and 3 will be when divided by 5. The second one is easy. It will be 3. First one is more difficult, but here's how I do it. Any time I see a problem about remainders of numbers when divided by a single digi...

I have noticed a significant improvement in the number of OG questions I get right as I follow the curriculum set out in the Excel planner, however, I feel I am cheating myself to a certain extend. I get this feeling because I know what the questions will focus on before I even read them. If I am su...

Hi Apoorva. I don't know exactly what you mean by your second question about "crack the code" but I can help explain the CAT question for you. (1): |xy| + x|y| + |x|y + xy > 0 First we must recognize that the absolute value of each of these 4 terms is equal. Then we can test cases. If e...

I've read my original post several times, and am scratching my head as to why I've received two responses assuming this to be a data sufficiency problem. This is not a DS problem. It is not a PS problem either. It is an example from the "number properties" book, as mentioned in my original...

Additionaly, I just noticed an error in my original post.

If x= -1, the p=0, not -2. Bad math by me, sorry.

I believe my question is still valid, as I'm curious if we can say 0 is divisible by 24 (or any number).

Hi Wig. To prove that C is the correct answer, let's use special cases of a and b. If b is close to it's lowest possible number, lets say 3.1, and a is close to it's highest number, 10.9, then what is b-a. 3.1-10.9 = -7.8. This falls outside of the range outlined in answer (c). The way the GMAT want...

I am currently in the process of applying for MBA programs and am needing some assistance with determining whether I'm a qualified candidate for the schools I'm looking at. Additionally, what are some of my strengths and weaknesees that need to be addressed in the application process. Academic Backg...

Before I get any responses, I had another question I wanted to add.... In reviewing other Profile Evaluations, it seems that any mention of the CFA or work towards the CFA is glossed over and not given much credit. Having successfully completed the first test, I can say from experience that this tes...