In the rectangular coordinate system above, if OP < PQ,

Kai Fu

But in the first statement, it doesn't state point Q is on the X axis. Therefore, there is no way we can assume the area is greater than 48. Please explain. Thank you!

Oct 20, 2016 • Reply

Sam Kinsman, Magoosh Tutor

Hello Kai,

You're right that this isn't stated. However, the diagram in the OG clearly makes it look like point Q is on the x axis. You're absolutely right that we need to be careful about making assumptions based on a diagram - but when it looks like a point is on a certain line, we can assume that that is the case! In other words, the GMAT writers will not confuse by drawing a point that looks like it is on a certain line, when it is actually not on that line :)

Oct 21, 2016 • Reply