Work and Time

The work and time problems relate the concept of work and time to each other when an action is put into effect by an individual or a group of individuals. To get the outcome of these problems, a certain set of formulas are to be used.

It is truly advantageous for us if we are aware of the rate at which work is being done. By estimating the rate of work accurately, we can calculate the time in which the work will be completed. And that is exactly how this concept can be put to use in daily life. In the case of the CAT examination, these problems given in the form of word problems pose quite a nuisance to students. It is difficult to solve these problems if you don’t know the complete meaning behind what is being told in the problem.

Basic concepts of Time and Work

The work and time problems make up a really big part of the quantitative analysis section of the CAT examinations. We can see at least one or two problems of the same manner in any competitive exam that we pick up. There are only a certain few types of problems with the concept of time and work. However, the number of problems that can be generated out of those few methods is beyond the count.

The work and time are generally given as word problems. For us to be able to solve those problems effectively and as soon as possible, we need to have a good understanding of what is being said in the problem. A person should be able to intercept the information that is told in the problem with complete accuracy or the problem will lose its meaning. 

This concept specifically deals with the problems that are related to the concept of time and work. We are given a sufficient amount of information, and by using that information we need to answer the asked question. This mainly deals with the time that is taken by a person or a group of individuals to complete a certain task. This also helps in the calculation of the efficiency at which the individual or individuals are working. 

Time and Work Formula

  • Work done = Time taken to do the work × Rate at which the work is being done.

  • Rate of completion of Work = 1 / Time Taken to do the work. 

  • Time Taken to do the work = 1 / Rate of completion of Work

  • The amount of work that is being done in a single day = 1 / The total number of days taken to complete the work.

  • The total amount of Work Done = Number of Days taken to do the work × Efficiency of work

  • Rate of work = Efficiency

  • Efficiency ∝ 1 / Time taken to do the work

The problems related to the time and work are of the same principle as that of the solution of the equations that have two variables. In these questions, we are provided with two situations, and using both of those situations, we need to provide the solution to the equations.  

Despite how complex the phrasing of the sentences is, the method to solve these questions is relatively easy. All that you need to be aware of is the concept of the equations that have two variables. Using the given data, make equations that have two variables, and then solve those equations to get the expected result. 

Facts about the time and work concepts

The problems regarding work and time are mainly related to the concept of human beings. In these questions, we are required to find the amount of time that will be taken to complete the work. Or, the number of people that will be taken to complete the work in a given time frame. 

Besides, the questions of work and time are not related to just this nature. These problems can stand the same for the rate of flow of rivers or such questions. In these questions, the rate of the work is already given to us, we have to analyse the given data to find out the time that will be taken to complete an action. 

Conclusion

The work and time problems give us a close estimation of the rate at which a person is capable of doing work. This estimation can be in the form of real numbers, percentages or fractions. By using this data, it is easier for us to make plans for the future. That is why having an understanding of the concept of work and time is a must. This helps us get a better idea regarding the time expectancy of a system or event.

faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the CAT Examination Preparation.

How is the efficiency of work done related to the rate of the work?

Answer: Both of these entities are inversely proportional to each other. It me...Read full

What is the efficiency of work?

Answer: This is the rate at which the work is being completed. This is given a...Read full

How is the total work done by a group of people calculated?

Answer: To calculate the total work done, we need to multiply the amount of ti...Read full

What is the rate of filling a tank with water?

Answer: The rate of filling of a tank is inversely proportional to the amount ...Read full

What is the concept of negative work in these problems?

Answer: It means that two works are taking place at the same time. And, one of...Read full