Assignment

Discrete Structure
(SE-261)

Submitted by
Zaryab Dar
(23014198-153)
2nd Semester
SE-23-C

Submitted To
Sir Zeeshan Anwar
Graphical and Analytical Approach to Solve a Problem

Content:
 History
 Introduction, Definition & Examples
 Advantages and Disadvantages
 Conclusion
 Real life Example

History:
Ancient and Classical Foundations
Early Mathematics

Quantitative reasoning has roots in ancient civilizations, where mathematics was used for
practical purposes such as trade, astronomy, and engineering. The Babylonians and Egyptians
developed arithmetic and geometry to address needs like land measurement and construction.

Greek Contributions

The Greeks made significant contributions to mathematical theory, laying the groundwork for
quantitative reasoning. Euclid's "Elements," written around 300 BCE, systematized geometry
into a coherent framework. Pythagoras and Archimedes further advanced mathematical
understanding, focusing on logical reasoning and problem-solving.

Middle Ages and Renaissance

Islamic Golden Age

During the Islamic Golden Age (8th to 14th centuries), scholars preserved and expanded upon
Greek and Indian mathematical works. Al-Khwarizmi's "Kitab al-Jabr wa-l-Muqabala"
introduced algebra, emphasizing the use of equations to solve practical problems.

European Renaissance

The Renaissance (14th to 17th centuries) saw a resurgence of interest in science and
mathematics in Europe. Figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Galileo Galilei applied mathematical
principles to art, engineering, and physics, demonstrating the power of quantitative reasoning in
various domains.

Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution

Advancements in Mathematics

The Enlightenment (17th to 19th centuries) brought about significant advancements in

mathematics. Isaac Newton and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz developed calculus, providing tools
to model and analyze dynamic systems. These developments laid the foundation for modern
quantitative reasoning.

Education Reforms
During the Industrial Revolution (18th to 19th centuries), the need for a mathematically literate
workforce became evident. Educational reforms emphasized arithmetic and basic geometry,
preparing individuals for careers in industry and commerce.

20th Century Developments

The Rise of Statistics

The 20th century saw the rise of statistics as a crucial component of quantitative reasoning.
Pioneers like Karl Pearson and Ronald Fisher developed statistical methods to analyze data and
draw meaningful conclusions, impacting fields such as biology, economics, and social sciences.

Mathematics Education

In the mid-20th century, educational reformers recognized the importance of quantitative

reasoning in everyday life. The introduction of "new math" in the 1960s aimed to improve
students' understanding of mathematical concepts, though it faced mixed reactions.

Computers and Technology

The advent of computers revolutionized quantitative reasoning, allowing for complex

calculations and data analysis. Programming languages and software tools made quantitative
methods more accessible, further integrating QR into various disciplines.

Contemporary Era
Quantitative Literacy

In the 21st century, quantitative literacy has become a key educational goal. The ability to
interpret data, understand probabilities, and make informed decisions based on numerical
information is essential in a data-driven society. Schools and universities emphasize QR across
curricula, recognizing its interdisciplinary relevance.

Real-World Applications

Quantitative reasoning is now applied in diverse fields such as finance, healthcare,

environmental science, and public policy. Big data and machine learning rely heavily on QR to
derive insights and drive innovation.

Introduction
Quantitative reasoning is the ability to use mathematical concepts to solve
problems and make decisions based on numerical data. This assignment will
challenge you to apply quantitative reasoning skills to a variety of real-world
scenarios.

1. Step 1: Understand the Problem. The Quantitative Reasoning Process is

used to make decisions. ...
2. Step 2: Identify Key Variables and Assumptions. ...
3. Step 3: Apply Quantitative Tools. ...
4. Step 4: Make an Informed Decision. ...
5. Step 5: Evaluate Your Reasoning.

Part 1: Data Interpretation

Analysing a Graph

You are provided with a bar graph showing the average monthly temperatures in a
city over a year.

Tasks:

1. Identify the month with the highest average temperature.

2. Calculate the difference between the highest and lowest average
temperatures.
3. Determine the average temperature for the entire year.

Interpreting a Table

The table below shows the sales of different products in a store over six months.

Month Product A Product B Product C

January 150 120 100
February 130 140 90
March 170 110 110
April 160 130 95
May 180 150 85
June 190 160 120

Tasks:

1. Calculate the total sales for each product over the six months.
 2. Identify the month with the highest sales for Product B.
3. Determine the overall best-selling product.

Part 2: Problem Solving

Budget Planning

You have a monthly budget of $2000. Your expenses are as follows: Rent - $800,
Groceries - $300, Utilities - $150, Transportation - $200, Miscellaneous - $250.

Tasks:

1. Calculate the total monthly expenses.

2. Determine the remaining amount after all expenses are paid.
3. If you want to save $100 per month, suggest a category where you can
reduce spending to achieve this goal.

Loan Interest Calculation

You take out a loan of $10,000 with an annual interest rate of 5%, to be paid back
in 2 years.

Tasks:

1. Calculate the total amount to be repaid by the end of the loan term.
2. Determine the monthly repayment amount.
3. If the interest rate increases to 6%, recalculate the total amount to be repaid
and the new monthly repayment amount.

Part 3: Logical Reasoning

Pattern Recognition

Consider the following sequence of numbers: 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, ...

Tasks:

1. Identify the pattern in the sequence.

2. Predict the next two numbers in the sequence.
3. Explain the rule that governs the sequence.
 Word Problems

A train travels from City A to City B at a speed of 60 miles per hour. The distance
between the two cities is 180 miles.

Tasks:

1. Calculate the time it takes for the train to travel from City A to City B.
2. If the train makes a stop for 30 minutes halfway, determine the total travel
time.
3. If the speed is reduced to 45 miles per hour, recalculate the time taken to
travel from City A to City B without any stops.

Part 4: Statistical Analysis

Descriptive Statistics

You have the following data set representing the ages of participants in a survey:
23, 27, 35, 30, 29, 41, 28, 35, 30, 40.

Tasks:

1. Calculate the mean age of the participants.

2. Determine the median age.
3. Identify the mode of the ages.
4. Calculate the range of the ages.

Probability

A box contains 5 red balls, 3 blue balls, and 2 green balls.

Tasks:

1. Calculate the probability of drawing a red ball.

2. Determine the probability of drawing a blue ball followed by a green ball
without replacement.
3. If one ball is drawn and replaced, what is the probability of drawing a green
ball?

Advantages of Quantitative Reasoning

1. Objectivity and Precision

Advantage: Quantitative reasoning relies on numerical data and mathematical

models, which can provide objective and precise results. This objectivity
minimizes the influence of personal biases and subjective interpretations.

Example: In medical research, quantitative reasoning allows for precise

measurement of treatment effects, leading to more reliable conclusions about
the efficacy of new drugs.

2. Ability to Handle Large Data Sets

Advantage: Quantitative methods can analyze large volumes of data

efficiently. Statistical techniques and computational tools enable researchers to
identify patterns, trends, and correlations that would be difficult to discern
manually.

Example: In marketing, companies use quantitative analysis to evaluate

consumer behaviour and preferences by analysing data from thousands of
transactions.

3. Predictive Power

Advantage: Quantitative reasoning can create predictive models that forecast

future outcomes based on historical data. These models are essential for
planning and decision-making in various domains.

Example: Economists use quantitative models to predict economic growth,

inflation rates, and unemployment trends, aiding policymakers in making
informed decisions.

4. Replicability and Verifiability

Advantage: Quantitative studies can be replicated and verified by other

researchers, enhancing the reliability and credibility of the findings. The use of
standardized methods and statistical tests ensures consistency across studies.

Example: In environmental science, quantitative methods allow researchers to

replicate studies on climate change, verifying the consistency of the results and
strengthening the evidence base.
5. Clarity and Communication

Advantage: Quantitative data can be clearly communicated through graphs,

charts, and tables, making it easier to convey complex information to a broad
audience. This clarity aids in decision-making and policy formulation.

Example: Public health officials use quantitative data to communicate the

spread of infectious diseases through clear visual representations, helping the
public understand the severity of outbreaks.

Disadvantages of Quantitative Reasoning

1. Oversimplification

Disadvantage: Quantitative reasoning can sometimes oversimplify complex

phenomena by reducing them to numerical data. This simplification might
overlook important qualitative aspects, leading to incomplete or misleading
conclusions.

Example: In education, standardized test scores provide a quantitative measure

of student performance but may not capture important qualitative factors like
creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.

2. Dependence on Data Quality

Disadvantage: The accuracy of quantitative analysis depends heavily on the

quality of the data. Poor data quality, including errors, biases, and missing
values, can lead to incorrect conclusions.

Example: In social sciences, survey data might be biased due to non-response

or inaccurate self-reporting, affecting the validity of the research findings.

3. Complexity and Accessibility

Disadvantage: Quantitative methods can be complex and require specialized

knowledge in mathematics and statistics. This complexity can make it
challenging for individuals without a strong background in these areas to
understand and apply quantitative reasoning effectively.
Example: In business, managers without statistical training might struggle to
interpret complex quantitative analyses, potentially leading to misinformed
decisions.

4. Misuse and Misinterpretation

Disadvantage: Quantitative data can be misused or misinterpreted,

intentionally or unintentionally, leading to false conclusions. Misuse can arise
from incorrect application of statistical methods or selective presentation of
data.

Example: In politics, selective use of statistics can mislead the public about
policy impacts, as seen when data is cherry-picked to support a particular
agenda.

5. Limited Scope

Disadvantage: Quantitative reasoning is not always suitable for exploring

phenomena that are inherently qualitative or subjective. Some research
questions require a qualitative approach to capture the full richness and
complexity of the subject matter.

Example: In psychology, understanding a person's motivations and emotions

might require qualitative interviews and case studies rather than purely
quantitative surveys.

Conclusion:
Quantitative reasoning is an essential skill that helps individuals analyse data,
solve problems, and make informed decisions. This assignment aims to enhance
your ability to apply mathematical concepts in practical situations.
Real life examples:
Business and finance: In finance, quantitative reasoning skills are used to
analyse data, make predictions, and make decisions about investments and
financial planning. Healthcare: In healthcare, quantitative reasoning skills
are used to analyse data and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and
interventions.