The following table represents the number of candidates that appeared and qualified in a competitive examination from different states over five years. Study the table and answer the questions that follow.

The total number of candidates that qualified from all the states together in 1998 is approximately what percentage of the total number of candidates that qualified from all the states together in 2001? (Correct to Two decimal points)

97.72%

Total candidates qualified in 1998 from all states = 980 + 1050 + 1020 + 1240

= 4290

Total candidates qualified in 2001 from all states = 1125 + 1020 + 1250 + 995

= 4390

Required percentage = \(\frac{ 4290}{4390}\) × 100

= 97.72%