Quantitative Data Comparisons
Comparison questions ask you to determine which value is larger, which trend is steeper, or which proportion is greater. Here's how to approach them.
Types of Comparisons
Direct value – "Which region had the highest revenue?" Read or calculate each value, then compare.
Percentage or ratio – "Which product had the highest profit margin?" Margin = Profit ÷ Revenue × 100. Calculate for each.
Change over time – "Which division had the largest percentage increase?" Use ((New − Old) ÷ Old) × 100 for each.
Proportion of total – "Which category contributed the most?" Calculate each as a percentage of total, or compare absolute values.
Strategy
Know what you're comparing – Same metric? Same time period? Same base?
Calculate only what you need – Estimate when possible. A ≈ 120, B ≈ 115 → A is greater.
Use elimination – Rule out clearly wrong options first.
Check units – Convert before comparing if needed.
Common Pitfalls
- Wrong metric – "Highest sales" vs "highest growth"—different.
- Wrong period – Comparing Q1 to Q2 when the question asks for full-year.
- Wrong base – For "which grew faster?", use the same base.
Quick Comparisons
- Fractions – Compare A/B and C/D: cross-multiply. A×D vs B×C.
- Percentages – 15% of 1000 = 150. 20% of 800 = 160.
- Percent change – Smaller base can give larger % change for same absolute change.
Practice with numerical reasoning questions and the numerical reasoning test.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I compare when values are close?
Calculate more precisely. Or use the difference: if A − B is positive, A > B.
What if I need to compare more than two options?
Rank them. Calculate the metric for each, then order.
How do I compare growth rates across different bases?
Use percentage change: ((New − Old) ÷ Old) × 100. That normalises for different starting sizes.