Three easy math problems. Can SMP do better than MIT?

[_TKO_]

[ QUOTE ]
I dont think its the math that is hanging anyone up. Majority of people are just poor critical thinkers. The math required to do these is probably on a 2nd grade level. I cant believe that schools dont make logic/problem solving/critical thinking type classes mandatory. That said those stats are still surprising.

[/ QUOTE ]

The math is closer to a 5th grade level. I think the ability to find the correct answer is determined by your ability to spot trick questions. In order to get the correct answers, you would likely first have to think to yourself, "These seem to obvious; there must be something more." And from that point, whether you know how to do the math or not, you will not pick the obviously incorrect answers.

It's not incredibly surprising that the overall population at some elite schools score so low. Consider the fact that most programs do not require excellent math skills. My girlfriend is very good at writing essays (she's in a Media Studies program) but she could not answer these questions. Perhaps if she actually took the time to think about it, she could work through it, but most people don't see that kind of waste of time as worthwhile.