WorkKeys Observation flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Percent change formula

Subtract the old value from the new value, divide by the old value, then multiply by 100. A negative result indicates a decrease.

Unit rate

A ratio that compares a quantity to one unit of another quantity, such as miles per hour. Divide the quantity by the time to find it.

Solving a proportion

Set two ratios equal and cross-multiply: if a/b = c/d, then ad = bc. Solve the resulting equation for the unknown value.

Mean calculation

Add all the values in a data set and divide by the number of values. The mean is affected by unusually high or low values.

Mixture concentration

The amount of a substance equals its concentration multiplied by the volume. When mixing, total substance is the sum of the parts.

Reading a line graph

The horizontal axis shows the independent variable and the vertical axis the dependent variable. Find a point, then read across to the other axis.

Graph scale interval

The value between consecutive tick marks. Find it by dividing the difference between labeled marks by the number of spaces between them.

Pie chart purpose

A pie chart shows parts of a whole; each slice's size is proportional to its share of the total. All slices sum to 100 percent.

Using a legend

A legend maps colors, patterns, or symbols to categories. Match each symbol to its label before interpreting the data shown.

Gantt chart bars

A Gantt chart shows tasks as horizontal bars. Bar length represents duration, and position shows start and end dates.

Must versus may

In policies, 'must' indicates a required action, while 'may' indicates an optional one. The distinction determines compliance obligations.

Memo header lines

The TO, FROM, DATE, and SUBJECT lines identify the audience, sender, timing, and purpose of a memo before the body text.

Signal words in warnings

DANGER indicates the most severe hazard, WARNING a moderate hazard, and CAUTION the least severe. The word signals the level of risk.

Resolving document conflicts

When two workplace documents conflict, the more specific or more recently issued document generally governs, unless policy states otherwise.

Scanning a document

Looking for headings, bold text, or keywords to locate a specific fact quickly, rather than reading every line in order.

Open-loop control

A system that runs a set process without measuring the output. It cannot correct itself if conditions change.

Closed-loop control

A system that measures actual output and adjusts the process to reach a target, such as a thermostat controlling a heater.

Series versus parallel circuits

In a series circuit, one break stops all current. In a parallel circuit, other branches continue to operate if one fails.

Torque relationship

Torque equals force multiplied by distance from the pivot. Increasing the distance increases torque for the same applied force.

Gear ratio effect

A larger gear meshing with a smaller gear turns more slowly but delivers greater torque. The smaller gear turns faster with less torque.

Preventive maintenance

Maintenance scheduled at set intervals to prevent failure, as opposed to corrective maintenance performed after equipment breaks down.

Active voice

A sentence structure where the subject performs the action, such as 'The team approved the plan.' It is clearer and more direct.

Main point first

Placing the most important information in the opening sentence or paragraph so busy readers understand the purpose immediately.

Parallel structure

Using the same grammatical form for items in a list or series, such as all verbs or all nouns, which improves readability.

Concise word choice

Replacing wordy phrases with shorter equivalents, such as 'daily' for 'on a daily basis' or 'because' for 'due to the fact that.'

Bad-news message structure

Open with a buffer, give the reason, state the decision clearly, and close with a forward-looking statement or alternative.

Fact versus inference

A fact is directly observed, such as a time and action. An inference is a conclusion about cause or intent that may be wrong.

Observation report contents

Include who, what, when, where, and how, stated without blame. Separate factual observations from opinions or judgments.

Comparing to a standard

Checking observed behavior or conditions against a written procedure or specification to identify deviations that need correction.

Detecting change

Comparing the current state of a workplace or process to a known baseline to identify differences that may indicate a problem.

Can-do versus will-do

Can-do factors are skills and abilities; will-do factors are motivation and attitude. Talent fit considers both for a role.

Demonstrating reliability

Showing up on time, attending consistently, and completing commitments. Reliability is a key predictor of workplace fit.