DE POST key terms

The difference between an old and a new value, expressed as a share of the old value. Calculated as (new − old) ÷ old × 100, and negative when the value falls.

A comparison of two quantities showing how many times one contains the other, written as 3:5 or 3/5. Used to split totals such as parcel volumes between depots.

A statement that two ratios are equal, or a part considered relative to a whole. Allows scaling, for example converting a rate per 100 items into a rate per 2,500 items.

A rate expressed per single unit, such as parcels per hour or cost per kilogram. Found by dividing the total quantity by the total number of units.

The sum of all values divided by how many values there are. Sensitive to extreme values, so check whether a median better describes the data before drawing conclusions.

The middle value when all values are arranged in order; with an even count, the mean of the two middle values. Unaffected by outliers, unlike the arithmetic mean.

Replacing a number with a nearby simpler one to speed up calculation or checking. Round consistently and note that small rounding errors can accumulate across several steps.

Working with durations and clock times, including crossing midnight and converting between hours, minutes and seconds. Often needed to find handling time or delay between two timestamps.

A conclusion drawn from evidence in the text rather than stated directly. A valid inference must be supported by the passage and must not go beyond what the wording allows.

The central point a passage is written to convey, usually supported by most of its sentences. Distinguish it from details that illustrate or qualify the point.

A short restatement of a text's key content in the reader's own words, leaving out examples and repetition. Tests often ask which option best condenses the passage without distortion.

Expressing the same meaning in different words. Correct paraphrase preserves the original claim's strength and scope, including qualifiers such as 'usually' or 'may'.

An unstated belief the argument depends on. If the assumption is false, the conclusion no longer follows, which is why assumption questions ask what must be true.

The claim an argument is trying to establish, supported by the other statements (premises). Identify it by asking what the speaker wants the reader to accept.

Deriving a guaranteed result from given statements using rules of logic, without adding outside knowledge. If the premises are true, a valid deduction cannot be false.

A form of reasoning with two premises and a conclusion, such as 'All A are B; all B are C; therefore all A are C.' Watch for reversed or invalid links.

A series of numbers following a rule, such as adding a constant, multiplying, or alternating two patterns. Differences between consecutive terms often reveal the rule.

A sequence of letters following a positional rule in the alphabet, sometimes combined with a number pattern. Track forward and backward steps separately to find the rule.

A relationship pair where the same relationship must be found between a second pair. Identify the precise link first, then test each option against it.

A set of items in which all but one share a common property; the task is to find the exception. Look for the rule that fits the majority, not the most striking item.

A puzzle where words or numbers are transformed by a consistent rule, such as shifting letters or reordering positions. Derive the rule from an example, then apply it.

Checking two lists, tables or addresses character by character to confirm they match exactly. Errors typically hide in digits, spacing, umlauts or similar-looking characters.

Reading text closely to spot errors in spelling, punctuation, numbers or names. In accuracy tests, compare against the source rather than relying on what the text should say.

An extra digit in a code, such as a postal code or tracking number, used to detect typing errors. It is calculated from the other digits by a fixed rule.

Deciding which task to complete first when several compete, based on deadlines, customer impact and dependencies. Explain the reasoning, not just the final order.

Passing an issue to a more senior colleague or specialist when it exceeds your authority or expertise. Escalate promptly and with the facts the next person needs.

Responding to a dissatisfied customer by listening, acknowledging the problem, explaining what will happen next and following through. Avoid blame and unverifiable promises.

Showing that you understand a customer's situation and feelings without necessarily agreeing with every claim. It calms conflict and supports a factual, solution-focused conversation.

Reducing tension in an angry exchange through calm tone, short sentences and acknowledging the person's concern. Avoid arguing, interrupting or matching the other person's aggression.

Keeping personal data such as addresses, phone numbers and delivery details private, sharing them only with colleagues who need them. Applies to paper documents as well as systems.

Legal and procedural rules limiting how personal data may be collected, used, stored and shared. In postal work it governs handling of addresses, signatures and delivery records.

A code of letters and digits identifying a delivery area, used to sort mail and route vehicles. Errors in one character can send an item to a different town.

Grouping mail and parcels by destination, route or service type so they can be dispatched efficiently. Correct sorting depends on reading labels accurately and following the current route plan.

A batch of items sent together under one dispatch or contract, which may contain several separate parcels. Tracked as a unit for handover and paperwork.

Evidence that an item reached the recipient, such as a signature, photo or scan record. It protects both the customer and the delivery organisation in disputes.

Mail or a parcel that cannot be delivered as addressed, for example because the address is incomplete, the recipient has moved or access is blocked. It follows a defined return or holding process.

Language suited to official or business writing, using complete sentences, neutral vocabulary and no slang. German business letters typically use 'Sie' and standard salutations.

The German distinction between formal address with 'Sie' and informal address with 'du'. Customer and business correspondence normally uses 'Sie' unless the customer offers 'du'.

The conventional layout of a professional message: subject line, salutation, concise body, clear request or next step, and closing with signature. Clarity and correct names matter more than length.