Quantitative Literacy Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Preparation Guide

When rainfall of 49 inches is described as being above the mean, it signifies that this amount exceeds the average rainfall typically recorded for that area over a specific time period. In statistical terms, the mean is a measure that represents the central or typical value in a dataset.

Understanding that a value is above the mean directly indicates that this year's rainfall is higher than the average annual rainfall for that town. This could reflect a wetter climate for that particular year, as rainfall amounts are generally compared against historical averages to assess trends in climate.

The context of the other options does not align with the meaning of "above the mean." For example, stating that the climate is becoming drier or that the rainfall is consistently below the mean contradicts the interpretation of the rainfall being higher than average. Therefore, considering the parameters set by the question regarding rainfall and its relation to the town's climate, recognizing that the current rainfall is above average is the accurate conclusion.