Appendix 2: An Estimation Quiz

The back-of-the-envelope calculations in Column 7 all start with basic quantities. Those numbers can sometimes be found in a problem specification (such as a requirements document), but other times they must be estimated.

This little quiz is designed to help you evaluate your proficiency as a number guesser. For each question, fill in upper and lower bounds that, in your opinion, give you a ninety percent chance of including the true value; try not to make your ranges too narrow or too wide. I estimate that it should take you between five and ten minutes. Please make a good faith effort (and in consideration of the next reader, perhaps a photocopy of this page).

[_____, _____] January 1, 2000, population of the ...

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