The unemployment rate equals
A) the rate of change in unemployment figures from one period to another.
B) the percentage of the population not currently employed.
C) the total number of people without jobs in a given period.
D) the percentage of the labor force currently unemployed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The unemployment rate is calculated as the percentage of the labor force that is currently unemployed. Therefore, answer choice D is the correct answer. Answer choice A is incorrect because it refers to the rate of change in unemployment figures, not the actual unemployment rate. Answer choice B is too broad because it includes all individuals who are not employed, including those who may not be seeking employment. Answer choice C refers to the total number of people without jobs, which does not take into account the size of the labor force.

The Unemployment Rate Equals