Foundations Level

Problem Solving and Data Analysis

Build essential skills in quantitative reasoning and data interpretation.

What You'll Learn

Ratios and Proportions

Understand and solve problems involving ratios and proportional relationships.

Percentages

Calculate percentages, percent change, and percent increase/decrease.

Basic Statistics

Find mean, median, mode, and range of data sets.

Data Interpretation

Read and analyze tables, charts, and simple graphs.

Key Concepts

  • Unit Rates: Finding the rate per one unit (e.g., price per item)
  • Percent Formula: Part/Whole × 100 = Percent
  • Mean: Sum of values divided by number of values
  • Median: Middle value when data is ordered
  • Proportional Thinking: Using cross-multiplication to solve proportions

Example Problem

If 3 pencils cost $1.50, how much would 7 pencils cost?

Solution:

Set up a proportion: 3/1.50 = 7/x

Cross multiply: 3x = 7 × 1.50

3x = 10.50

x = $3.50

Study Tips

  • Label your ratios clearly to avoid confusion
  • When finding median, always order the data first
  • Double-check which quantity represents the "whole" in percentage problems
  • Pay attention to units and convert when necessary

Start Practicing

Ready to test your skills? Choose how you want to study: