Question

us unemployment rates 2006 to 2012
a normal unemployment rate in the us is considered to be around 5%. according to the graph, in what years was the unemployment rate nearest to this average?
according to the graph, in what years did the us unemployment rate rise most steeply?
according to the graph, individuals would have the most difficult time finding employment during which year?
(graph: x - axis: year (2006 - 2012), y - axis: unemployment rate (0% - 12%))

Explanation:

To determine the years with unemployment rate nearest to 5%: Observe the graph. 2006: ~5%, 2007: ~4%, 2008: ~3%, 2009: ~5%, 2010: ~10%, 2011: ~8%, 2012: ~8%. So 2006 and 2009 are nearest. For steepest rise: Compare slopes. From 2009 to 2010, the rate jumps from ~5% to ~10%, steepest. Most difficult (highest rate): 2010 has the highest rate (~10%).

Answer:

1. Years with unemployment rate nearest to 5%: 2006, 2009
2. Years with steepest rise: 2009 to 2010
3. Year with most difficult employment: 2010