“Stupider Than You Realize”, 2009-07-04 (; backlinks; similar):
A better intuition for common abilities can be found by browsing the US National Assessment of Adult Literacy sample questions.
For example, in 1992 out of a random sample of US adults, 7% could not do item SCOR300, which is to find the expiration date on a driver’s license. 26% could not do item AB60303, which is to check the “Please Call” box on a phone message slip when they’ve been told:
James Davidson phones and asks to speak with Ann Jones, who is at a meeting. He needs to know if the contracts he sent are satisfactory and requests that she call before 2:00PM. His number is 259-3860. Fill in the message slip below.
Only 52% could do item AB30901, which is to look at a table on page 118 of the 1980 World Almanac and answer:
According to the chart, did US exports of oil (petroleum) increase or decrease 1976–2197846ya?
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