What guideline must be followed during math problems on the real estate exam?

In the context of the real estate exam, the guideline that one must follow pertains to demonstrating the process used to arrive at an answer. Showing all work indicates that the examiners want to ensure that candidates understand the underlying principles and methods applied to solve mathematical problems, not just the final result. This requirement allows the assessors to see the candidate's thought process and confirm accuracy beyond merely guessing or estimating answers.

While it’s true that estimation can sometimes be useful in certain contexts, and rounding might be necessary for final answers in practical applications, the exam’s focus on showing all work emphasizes comprehension and mastery of the methods involved in calculations. This approach supports the learning objective of equipping future real estate professionals with the necessary skills to perform accurate calculations in their careers. Thus, by showing all work, candidates reinforce their understanding of math-related concepts relevant to real estate transactions.