Mon, 04 May 2026 07:48:48 +0000

A student scores 85%, 90%, and 78% on three exams. What is the minimum score she must earn on the fourth exam to achieve an overall average of 88%? As college and high school students track performance across multiple assessments, the pressure to meet academic targets is growing—not just for grades, but for future opportunities. With rising emphasis on standardized benchmarks, many learners now seek clear paths to meet key performance goals, especially in competitive educational landscapes. This has sparked curiosity around how consistent scores translate across multiple evaluations a student needs to stay on track. To reach an overall average of 88% after four exams, the student’s score on the fourth exam must bridge the gap left by her lower third-quarter performance. The current average of 85%, 90%, and 78% sets a baseline that reflects varied assessment outcomes. With 85 + 90 + 78 = 253, dividing by three leaves a sum of 84.3%—just below the 88% target. To close this 3.7-point deficit, a precise calculation reveals she needs at least 88.5% on the fourth exam. Since exam scores are typically reported in whole percentages, rounding up safely means scores of **89% or higher** are required. Why is this target significant beyond just numbers? In today’s education-driven economy, even small shifts in averages can affect scholarship eligibility, program advancement, or college admissions. Understanding this threshold empowers students to adjust study habits, seek targeted help, or plan exam strategy more effectively. It turns abstract goals into actionable milestones.