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Quantitative Reasoning

How to Avoid Silly Mistakes in UCAT Quantitative Reasoning

Most “silly mistakes” are not random. They usually come from a repeated habit.

Common QR errors include:

  • using the wrong row or column
  • missing the unit
  • calculating a percentage from the wrong starting value
  • answering for one person instead of the whole group
  • rounding too early
  • typing a number incorrectly

The best way to reduce these mistakes is to build quick checks into your method.

Before calculating, identify the exact quantity the question wants.

Circle the unit mentally.

After calculating, estimate whether the answer is sensible.

If a bus journey of 10 miles somehow takes 900 hours, something is clearly wrong.

Do not reread the whole question three times. Check the most likely failure points.

That gives you better accuracy without destroying your timing.

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