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assumptions & estimation

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summary
understanding how to effectively use estimations and assumptions in act geometry problems is crucial for test-takers. the ability to visually estimate measurements can significantly aid in narrowing down answer choices and confirming calculations.
  • geometry diagrams on the act are almost always drawn to scale, allowing for the use of visual estimation in solving problems.
  • visual estimation can help eliminate incorrect answers and serve as a confirmation for calculated answers, though it rarely solves a problem entirely on its own.
  • using the paper-based test to your advantage, such as using the corner of an answer sheet as a right angle or comparing lengths, can aid in estimation.
  • basic estimation techniques can eliminate several answer choices quickly, improving the chances of guessing the correct answer when unsure of the solution.
  • understanding the scale and possible ranges of sizes in geometric diagrams is a key strategy for the act.
chapters
00:02
the importance of diagrams drawn to scale
00:55
practical estimation techniques
01:19
applying estimation to solve problems
02:06
visual estimation in practice

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