ASVAB subject guide
Arithmetic reasoning
Turn a word problem into a few clear mathematical steps.
Core review
What to study
- Identify what the question asks before calculating.
- Write down the known values and their units.
- Estimate first so you can spot an unreasonable answer.
Five-question review
Try original arithmetic reasoning questions.
Attempt each question before opening the answer and explanation.
A truck travels 210 miles in 3.5 hours. What is its average speed?
- 50 mph
- 55 mph
- 60 mph
- 65 mph
Reveal answer and explanation
Correct answer: 60 mph
Average speed is distance divided by time: 210 ÷ 3.5 = 60 mph.
A student saves 15% of a $240 paycheck. How much is saved?
- $24
- $30
- $36
- $40
Reveal answer and explanation
Correct answer: $36
Convert 15% to 0.15 and multiply: 0.15 × 240 = 36.
Red and blue markers are in a 3:5 ratio. If there are 64 markers total, how many are red?
- 16
- 24
- 32
- 40
Reveal answer and explanation
Correct answer: 24
There are 8 ratio parts. Each part is 64 ÷ 8 = 8, so red markers total 3 × 8 = 24.
Six identical notebooks cost $18. What is the cost of one notebook?
- $2
- $3
- $4
- $6
Reveal answer and explanation
Correct answer: $3
Unit cost is total cost divided by quantity: 18 ÷ 6 = 3.
Four workers pack 48 boxes in 3 hours at equal rates. How many boxes does each worker pack per hour?
- 3
- 4
- 6
- 12
Reveal answer and explanation
Correct answer: 4
Divide 48 boxes by 4 workers and then by 3 hours: 48 ÷ 4 ÷ 3 = 4.
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