MGMAT Probability question # 11 - pg. 93 in Guide 4

[ryjafri]

Hello,
I'm new to this board, so apologies in advance if I broke any rules regarding where one must post certain questions.

I'm having difficulty understanding the solution MGMAT provided for question # 11 on pg. 93 in Guide 4-Word Translations. The question deals with the five actresses who want to star in a film that only has 3 available slots. I figured out how many different combinations are possible via the combination formula, but the calculation of the three possible scenarios in which Julia and Hallie star together in the film still eludes me.

I know for a fact that on test day I will not have the time to create a chart such as the one provided by MGMAT, and I was hoping to receive another explanation that is just as efficient.

Can someone help? Thanks.

[tim]

if J and H are already in the film, there is only one slot left and three actresses are trying for it. there are thus three ways to fill that position..

BTW "know[ing] for a fact" that you cannot do something is a self-fulfilling prophecy. don't give up; with practice you'll find that all of our techniques are things you can get faster at..