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GRE Strategy: Quantitative Section Chris Diehl
The Quantitative Section of the GRE measures basic mathematical skills and concepts as well as your ability to reason quantitatively and solve problems. During the 45-minute section there are four basic areas where you're tested (note that the examples below are not limited to what could be on the test):
- Arithmetic: Basic operations, properties of integers, absolute value, etc.
- Algebra: Exponents, algebraic equations, functions, linear and quadratic equations, equations and inequalities, etc.
- Geometry: Properties and calculations involving circles, triangles, rectangles and parallel lines, the Pythagorean theorem, angle measurements in degrees, etc.
- Data analysis: Statistics, graphs, tables, probability, etc.
Within the Quantitative Section, there are two types of questions:
Quantitative comparison: In this section, you must be able to accurately assess the relative sizes of two quantities. The test presents two columns, side by side (Columns A and B). Each question presents two quantities, one in each column, and you must choose whether: the item in Column A is greater; the item in Column B is greater; the two quantities are equal in relative value; or that there is not enough information to determine which is greater.
Problem solving: Use the four basic skills listed above to solve the mathematical problem presented. You may be asked to make one or two computations; others may require you to progress through a series of mathematical tasks to arrive at the correct answer.
Quantitative Comparison
- Save time by avoiding unnecessary calculations. You may have to run through some calculations, but only do so until you can identify which item is of greater relative value, make your selection and then move forward.
- Consider many different possible numbers before you make your final selection. If you're trying to establish which quantity is greater by substituting numbers for variables, be sure to use a range of numbers (including zero and negative numbers). If you find a disparity then the correct response may be that there's not enough information.
- Geometric figures are not always drawn to scale. Instead of the eyeball test, rely on your knowledge of mathematics to make your decision.
- There are only ever four choices for this section, so do not mark "E."
Problem Solving
- Read the question carefully to determine what is being asked. Check specifically for key quantitative phrases, such as "how much…", "what is the total…" or "what is the average…"
- Before starting on a calculation, scan the answers to determine the format expected. For example, you might waste time looking for a number expressed as a decimal, when the answer expected is a fraction.
- Use quick computational shortcuts wherever possible. For example, if a problem refers to something with a value of 34.7%, understand that this is equal to about 1/3. Such mathematical shortcuts can save you valuable time by not having to stumble through arduous (and unnecessary) calculations.
- Read the question before you spend time analyzing the data on charts or graphs. Also, make any conclusion about a chart or graph based only on the data given. Do not extrapolate or theorize beyond what is presented in the question.
For more tips and tutorials across each section of the GRE check out GRE.org. Get more GRE Strategies:
- GRE Overview
- Analytical Writing Section
- Verbal Section
- Analogies
- Antonyms
- Sentence Completions
- Reading Comprehension
- Quantitative Section
- Quantitative Comparison
- Problem Solving
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