GMAT Focus Quant: Ratios and Percentages - Basics and Practice Questions

🔢A ratio is essentially a fraction, representing the relationship between two quantities. It can be simplified and scaled up or down by multiplying or dividing both quantities by the same value.

🔢When solving ratio problems, identify the unknown variable and solve for it using the given ratios or by setting up proportions.

📊Percentages represent a portion of a whole, often out of 100. They can be represented as fractions or decimals, and can be used to solve a variety of problems, including finding a percentage of a quantity or finding the total when given a percentage.

📊To convert a percentage to a fraction or decimal, divide the percentage by 100. To find a percentage of a quantity, multiply the quantity by the percentage.

✅Practicing with a variety of ratio and percentage problems will help you become more comfortable and proficient in solving them.

What is a ratio and how can it be used?

—A ratio represents the relationship between two quantities and can be used to compare and solve problems involving proportions. It can be simplified and scaled up or down by multiplying or dividing both quantities by the same value.

How do I convert a percentage to a fraction or decimal?

—To convert a percentage to a fraction, divide the percentage by 100. To convert to a decimal, simply move the decimal point two places to the left. For example, 25% is equal to 0.25 as a decimal and 1/4 as a fraction.

How can percentages be used to solve problems?

—Percentages can be used to find a percentage of a quantity, find the total when given a percentage, compare different quantities, and solve a variety of real-life problems involving proportions and percentages.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving ratio and percentage problems?

—Some common mistakes include forgetting to simplify ratios, misplacing decimal points when converting percentages, and misinterpreting the problem statement. Pay attention to units and carefully read and understand the question before solving.

How can I improve my skills in solving ratio and percentage problems?

—Practicing with a variety of problems, understanding the concepts behind ratios and percentages, and using tools like translations and proportions will help you become more comfortable and proficient in solving ratio and percentage problems.

00:00Introduction to GMAT Focus Quant video on ratios and percentages.

02:28Explanation of the basics of ratios, including how to simplify and scale up or down.

04:38Discussion of the concept of percentages, including how to convert them to fractions and decimals.

07:15Solving practice questions related to ratios and percentages.

12:53Conclusion and tips for improving your skills in solving ratio and percentage problems.