Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Practice Test

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Study for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Enhance your preparation with practice flashcards and hints. Get ready for your GMAT exam!

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What is the formula for the total number of elements in overlapping sets?

Total = Group 1 + Group 2
Total = Group 1 + Group 2 - Both
Total = Group 1 + Group 2 - Both + Neither
Total = Group 1 + Group 2 + Neither

The correct answer is: Total = Group 1 + Group 2 - Both + Neither

Understanding the total number of elements in overlapping sets is crucial for solving problems in probability and statistics. When you have two groups that share some members, calculating the total can be tricky due to the duplication of those shared members. The formula for the total number of elements in overlapping sets is constructed by combining the individual counts of each group, which represent unique members of each group. However, to avoid counting the individuals who are part of both groups twice, you must subtract the number of elements that belong to both groups. Additionally, it’s important to account for individuals who do not belong to either group, represented in this case as 'Neither.' By adding 'Neither' back to the total, you ensure that every possible element in the scenario is counted accurately. Thus, the correct formulation of the total number of elements encompasses the number of unique members from both groups, reduces the count by those included in both groups to eliminate duplicates, and finally adds in those who do not belong to either set, ensuring a comprehensive total is reached.