STRANGE SYMBOLISM AND TERMINOLOGY
Some math problems will be confusing because you’re unfamiliar with the math concept being tested. Other problems will seem
confusing because the math has literally been made up just for the purposes of the test. The test makers make up math symbols and
terminology to test your ability to deal with unfamiliar concepts.
MAKING IT UP AS THEY GO ALONG
If it’s a symbol you’ve never seen before, you can be sure the test maker just made it up.These problems are not as hard as they sound. When a strange symbol appears in a math problem, the problem will always tell you
what the symbol means. Similarly, if you see strange terminology, it will always be defined. The problems are essentially about
following directions, so do not panic when you see them. All you have to do is slow down, read the problem, and follow the
directions.
If what is 9<<>>16?
All you have to do here is to plug 9<<>>16 into the defining equation:
LOOK FOR QUOTES
Made up terminology will most likely be in quotes.To “chomp” a number, take the sum of the digits of that number and divide this value by the number of digits. What value do you get
when you “chomp” 43,805?
4 + 3 + 8 + 0 + 5 = 20
20 ÷ 5 = 4
The following 46 problems address the range of topics covered in this chapter. As you solve these problems, think about the content
you’ve just reviewed and the Kaplan strategies. Make sure you check the answers and read the explanations at the end of the chapter.