Averages

There are three basic components that comprise an average problem:

1. Total

2. Average (also known as a mean)

3. # of numbers

The average is the total of elements that are within the set.

To discover the average, simply divide the total by the # of numbers.

For example:

Jenna’s last four test scores were 35, 56, 75, and 28. What is the average of Jenna’s test scores?

A. 43

B. 48.5

C. 52.5

D. 54

E. 47

Note: the answer is (B).

35 + 56 + 75 + 28 = 194

194 / 4 = 48.5

Five things to remember when solving averages:

1. If a number that is the same as the average is added, the new average will not change.

2. If a number is added and it is less than the average, the average will decrease.

3. If a number is added and it is greater than the average, the average will increase.

4. If a pair of numbers are added, and they are “balanced” on both sides of the average, the arithmetic mean is the middle value.

5. To discover the average between two evenly spaced numbers, add the first and the last terms and divide them by 2.