Data Interpretation • Topic 1 of 6

Tables

A table organises data in rows and columns. SAT questions ask you to read individual values, then combine them — usually a total, a difference, an average, or which category is greatest or least. The skill is locating the exact cell the question refers to and not confusing a row label with its value. Add carefully when a question asks for a total, and subtract the correct pair for a difference. A common trap is answering with one of the raw values when the question actually wants a computed result, so reread what is being asked before choosing.

A data table of units sold per dayReading a tableDayUnitsMon12Tue18Wed9Thu21Total = 12 + 18 + 9 + 21 = 60

✅ Solved examples

1. A table lists units sold: Mon 12, Tue 18, Wed 9, Thu 21. What is the total?
Add all four: 12 + 18 + 9 + 21 = 60.
2. Using the same data, how many more were sold on Thursday than Wednesday?
Thursday 21 − Wednesday 9 = 12.
3. A table shows scores 80, 76, 90, 74. What is the mean?
Sum 320 ÷ 4 = 80.
4. A table shows sales A 40, B 55, C 35, D 50. Which is greatest?
The largest value is 55, which is B.

✏️ Practice — try these, take hints as needed

1. A table shows visitors: Fri 30, Sat 45, Sun 25. What is the total?
Add every value.
30 + 45 + 25.
—
100.
2. Tickets sold: matinee 60, evening 95. How many more in the evening?
Subtract the smaller from the larger.
95 − 60.
—
35.
3. A table shows 4 test scores: 70, 85, 90, 75. What is the average?
Add then divide by 4.
Sum = 320.
320 ÷ 4.
80.
4. Books read: A 12, B 9, C 15, D 11. Which student read the fewest?
Find the smallest value.
9 is smallest.
—
B.
5. A table shows rainfall (mm): Jan 40, Feb 30, Mar 50. What is the total for the quarter?
Add all three.
40 + 30 + 50.
—
120 mm.

📝 Topic test — 8 questions

Auto-graded with full solutions; saved to your dashboard. Use the calculator and formula sheet (top-right) any time.

Loading questions…
Bar Graphs →