Solving data word problems
Word problems about data ask you to read a pie chart or to work out the mode, median, mean or range. The words hide the numbers, so read slowly and pick out the total and the values you need. Use four simple steps to stay tidy and avoid mistakes.
Key idea
- Understand — what is the question asking?
- Plan — which idea do I need (a fraction of a total, the mean, the range…)?
- Solve — do the calculation carefully.
- Check — does the answer make sense?
Worked example
Worked example
A pie chart shows how 80 pupils travel to school. The “bus” sector is ¼ of the circle. How many pupils take the bus?
Plan: find ¼ of 80.
Solve: ¼ × 80 = 20 pupils.
Check: 20 out of 80 is one quarter — that matches the slice. ✓
Remember
- Read the total number carefully.
- A slice’s share × total = the number it stands for.
- Order the numbers before finding a median.