WorkKeys Observation key terms

A ratio that compares two quantities with different units, such as miles per hour or cost per item. Rates let you scale a value up or down to predict totals.

An equation stating that two ratios are equal. You solve a proportion by cross-multiplying to find an unknown value in a real-world comparison.

A comparison of two quantities by division, often written as a fraction or with a colon. Ratios describe how much of one thing exists relative to another.

The cost of a single unit of an item, found by dividing total cost by the number of units. Comparing unit prices shows which size or brand is the better buy.

A part expressed out of one hundred. Percentages are used to describe discounts, tax, interest, and increases or decreases in a quantity.

The amount a value grows, divided by the original value, written as a percent. It measures growth such as a raise, price hike, or production gain.

The amount added to a cost to set a selling price, often stated as a percent of cost. Markup differs from margin, which is based on the selling price.

Rounding numbers to friendly values to get a quick, approximate answer. Estimation helps you check whether a calculated result is reasonable before trusting it.

Replacing a number with a nearby value that has fewer digits, based on a chosen place value. Rounding keeps answers practical when exact precision is not required.

Changing a quantity from one unit to another, such as feet to inches or liters to gallons, using a known equivalence. Correct conversion keeps calculations consistent across systems.

Adding a set of values and dividing by how many values there are to find the mean. Averages summarize typical performance across several measurements or periods.

A key on a graph that explains what each color, line style, or symbol represents. Reading the legend correctly is required to interpret the data shown.

Text along the horizontal or vertical edge of a graph naming the quantity and its units. Axis labels tell you what the numbers actually measure.

The numeric spacing used along a graph's axis, showing how much each tick or gridline represents. A misread scale leads to wrong conclusions about the data.

A line drawn through plotted data showing the general direction of change over time. Trend lines help you predict future values and spot patterns.

Information arranged in rows and columns so values can be compared. Tables often supply the exact figures that a related chart displays visually.

A diagram using shapes and arrows to show the steps of a process and the order they occur. Flowcharts reveal decision points and where work branches.

A simplified drawing showing how parts of a system connect or function, without realistic appearance. Schematics are used for wiring, plumbing, and equipment layouts.

A small reference panel on a drawing, map, or schematic that decodes symbols, colors, or line types. Without the legend, symbols on the document cannot be interpreted.

The central point a document is making, supported by details throughout. Identifying the main idea helps you answer questions about purpose and summary.

A specific fact, example, or reason that backs up a document's main point. Details are the evidence you cite when explaining what a text says.

A conclusion drawn from clues in a text rather than stated directly. Workplace documents often require inferring meaning from context and tone.

An ordered set of steps for completing a task correctly and safely. Procedures must be followed in sequence, and skipping steps can cause errors or hazards.

A rule or guideline that states what is expected or allowed in a workplace. Policies set boundaries, while procedures describe how to carry them out.

A brief internal written message used to inform, request, or direct staff. Memos typically state a purpose up front and end with a clear action or deadline.

A precise written requirement describing dimensions, materials, tolerances, or performance for a product or task. Specifications must be met exactly for work to be accepted.

The acceptable amount of variation allowed in a measurement or process. Staying within tolerance means a part or result is still considered correct.

The process of checking work or products against standards to catch defects. Quality control uses inspections, tests, and measurements to keep output consistent.

A systematic method of finding the cause of a problem by testing likely sources one at a time. Good troubleshooting rules out simple causes before replacing parts.

A device that prevents equipment from operating unless a guard or condition is in place. Interlocks protect workers by stopping machines when safety is compromised.

Any condition or source with the potential to cause injury or damage. Recognizing hazards is the first step in choosing controls and safe work practices.

The intended reader of a message, whose knowledge and needs shape how it is written. Adjusting tone and detail to the audience improves clarity and response.

The attitude conveyed by word choice and phrasing, such as formal, neutral, or urgent. A professional tone stays courteous even when delivering criticism or bad news.

Expressing a message in as few words as needed without losing meaning. Concise writing respects the reader's time and reduces misreading.

A sentence structure in which the subject performs the action, as in 'the team finished the report.' Active voice is direct and assigns responsibility clearly.

Carefully noticing details in a scene, process, or sequence of events. Strong observation means recalling what happened, in what order, and what changed.

The order in which events or steps occur. Noticing sequence helps you explain what happened first, what followed, and where a process went wrong.

The habit of noticing small but important features that others might overlook. It supports accuracy in checking numbers, labels, and instructions.

The observable conduct expected on the job, including punctuality, cooperation, and following direction. Employers judge fit partly by how consistently these behaviors appear.

The quality of consistently meeting commitments such as attendance, deadlines, and quality standards. Reliability makes a worker predictable and trusted by others.

Working cooperatively with others toward a shared goal, sharing information and supporting teammates. Effective teamwork includes listening and resolving disagreements constructively.

Acting honestly and ethically even when no one is watching. Integrity includes admitting mistakes, following rules, and refusing to cut corners.