GRAPHS AND STATISTICS

Data Interpretation

Learn the reliable method for data interpretation, then apply it to 11+ exam-style questions.

1 · WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The idea

Data Interpretation questions test how accurately you read, summarise and compare data.

Picture itRead the scale before the bars
2 · THE METHOD

Follow these steps

  1. Read the title, labels, key and scale.
  2. Extract only the values needed.
  3. Apply the correct statistic or comparison and check the unit.
3 · WORKED EXAMPLES

See the method in action

Example 1

Use the table. What percentage of the total visitors came on Tuesday?

  1. The table total is 18 + 27 + 21 = 66.
  2. Tuesday's share is 27 ÷ 66 × 100 = 40.9%, about 41%.
Answer: about 41%
Example 2

Use the chart. Find the increase from week 1 to week 4, then subtract the decrease from week 2 to week 3.

  1. The increase is 27 − 15 = 12.
  2. The decrease is 21 − 18 = 3.
  3. Their difference is 9.
Answer: 9
4 · ELEVENSPRINT TIP

A useful shortcut

Read the scale before reading any bar, point or symbol.

5 · COMMON MISTAKES

Watch out for these

Counting symbols instead of using the key

Multiply the number of symbols, including partial symbols, by the key value.

6 · TRY IT YOURSELF

Three fresh questions

Ready to check the method? You will get three fresh, validated questions.