Quantitative evidence: the SAT reading & writing trap

Short answer: Check the axis label: percent or count? A bigger share isn't a bigger number.

The trap, in one question

Tempting answer: More people bike in Town A.

Correct answer: A larger share of Town A residents bike.

How to spot it in 3 seconds

Check the axis label: percent or count? A bigger share isn't a bigger number.

FAQ

What is the quantitative evidence trap on the SAT?

Example: 40% of Town A residents bike; 25% of Town B residents bike. Town B is four times as big. Which is supported? The tempting answer is More people bike in Town A.; the correct answer is A larger share of Town A residents bike..

How do you avoid the quantitative evidence trap?

Check the axis label: percent or count? A bigger share isn't a bigger number.

More Reading & Writing traps

← Command of evidence · Student notes: obey the goal →