GRE Quantitative Reasoning

GRE Quantitative Reasoning: Overview 

Quantitative reasoning, being a part of the GRE section, measures a candidate's general math skills, understanding of elementary mathematical concepts, and ability to reason and solve problems using math. There are typically two parts to this section:

1. Part 1- 12 questions with a time limit of 21 minutes
2. Part 2- 15 questions with a time limit of 26 minutes

As one might assume, GRE quantitative reasoning tests math skills that are probably acquired in high school. However, for putting in extra effort, these questions revolve around critical thinking and problem-solving. Below is a GRE quantitative reasoning study guide for students to know what topics to expect. 

1. Arithmetic

• Number theory/integer properties: Factorisation, Prime Numbers, Remainders, Divisibility, Odd/Even Integers
• Basic operations: Addition, Subtraction, Division, Multiplication, and Exponents (Think PEMDAS or BODMAS), and Roots
• Alternate topics: Percentage, Ratios, Rates, Absolute Value, Number Lines, Decimals, and Number Sequences

2. Algebra

• 2-dimensional figures: Parallel/Perpendicular Lines; Circles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, and Other Polygons; congruence/similarity; area and perimeter
• 3-dimensional figures: volume and area of 3-dimensional figures
• Alternate topics: Pythagorean theorem, angles (in degrees)

3. Data Analysis

• Basic descriptive statistics: mean, median, mode, standard deviation, range, interquartile range, quartiles/percentiles
• Data interpretation: interpreting information in line, bar, and circle graphs; boxplots and scatter plots; frequency distributions
• Probability: probability of both compound and independent events, conditional probability, random variables, probability distributions (like normal distributions)
• Counting methods: permutations, combinations, Venn diagrams

4. Geometry

• Lines: parallel and perpendicular lines
• Figures: circles, triangles, including isosceles, equilateral, and 30°-60°-90° triangles, quadrilaterals, and other polygons
• Areas: perimeter, volume, and surface area
• Alternate Topics: the Pythagorean theorem and angle measurement in degrees

GRE Quantitative Reasoning Question Types

1. Quantitative Comparison: 

Here, the candidate is required to compare two given sets of quantities and then filter out or determine which quantity is greater or equal.

2. Multiple Choice: 

This one is pretty self-explanatory; the candidate is required to choose one or more answers from the options that best suit the question.

3. Numeric Entry: 

For such types of questions, the candidate is required to answer the question in a single box, either as a decimal or an integer, or a fraction into two separate boxes. 

4. Data Interpretation Questions:

These questions are also a part of the multiple-choice questions. Here, there will be a set of graphs and charts; candidates are required to interpret the visual data for answers.

Now, let's discuss these types in detail to understand the GRE math section thoroughly. Know the GRE syllabus and exam pattern for a better outward view of the exam.

Quantitative Comparison Questions

If one fits the GRE eligibility criteria, the candidate will encounter quantitative reasoning questions. The candidate has to compare quantity A with quantity B and then determine which one is greater, whether both are equal, or whether the relationship cannot be determined. 

Tips for answering;

1. These types of questions also have the same answer choices; it is important to comprehend them in order to suffice for the correct answer completely. Make sure never to choose the last option, 'the relationship cannot be determined from the information given,' if computations can perfectly determine the values given. 
2. Do not waste time doing unnecessary calculations to compare the quantities. One can either try simplifying it or give an estimation needed to compare them.
3. If one or more of the quantities are algebraic numbers, one can substitute these into variables and then compare.
4. In some cases, you might find quantity A greater than the other, but in another scenario, quantity B might seem greater for the same case. In such type of situations, you can simply choose the option - The relationship cannot be determined from the information given."
5. In case when quantity A is an algebraic expression and Quantity B is an arithmetic expression, you cannot easily rectify these relationships for comparison. Here, first, you must simplify the comparison step by step and then try solving the question.

Multiple Choice Questions

The multiple choice questions in the GRE quantitative reasoning section are when the candidate is obliged to pick an answer or two from a list of given options; the chosen answer is supposed to resonate the most with the given question. The question may or may not specify the number of choices to select.

Tips For Answering;

1. Sometimes, not one of the entire choice of answers might seem suitable for the question asked. In this case, you must first re-read the question and understand it, check your calculations for mistakes, and then re-evaluate the answer. 
2. Some questions directly demand that a certain property be in the desired answer; here, you may have to consider each answer separately and figure out the relationships with the question.  
3. Sometimes, the questions posed may demand answers in approximations. After you are done with the computations, the answer should reflect some type of accuracy towards the choices of answers given. Instead of wasting time over long computations, pick the most approximate answer.  
4. As mentioned before, a few of the questions demand two or more answers. So, it is important to note whether you are asked to choose one or more answers. 
5. The GRE quantitative reasoning section is timed, and one cannot waste time performing long computations over one question. Start computing and recognise the numerical patterns to conclude with the given answers. 

Numeric Entry Questions

In the GRE math section, the numeric entry-type questions often require you to enter the answer as an integer or a decimal in a single box. 

Tips For Answering;

1. For the numeric entry type of questions, you are not offered choices. Hence, one must read the questions carefully and provide the required answers. Sometimes, units like feet and miles are specified in front of the answer box. This will help you determine the answer is required in which unit. 
2. If you find your answer to be in decimals like 78.4, it is supposed to be rounded off to the nearest integer, i.e., 78. This is only applicable when it is mentioned in the question that the answer is to be rounded off. You can enter the exact answer if this clause is not mentioned. 
3. One can recheck the answer once again to see if it is reasonable with respect to the question. One can also try different methods of computing to see if the same answer is being derived. 

Data Interpretation Questions

Typically there are four data interpretation questions asked in a GRE quantitative reasoning section. You are required to interpret the visual data and derive the necessary answers. The types of questions may be Multiple-choice or Numeric Entry.

Tips For Answering;

1. It is important just to scan the visual representations and not study each and every minute detail in order to save time. Focus on the numerical aspect of it primarily. 
2. Pay minute attention to the axis and scales of the graph, the units of measurement mentioned in the tile, and any notes that clarify the data. 

Topics Covered in GRE Quantitative Reasoning

Some of the GRE Quantitative Reasoning questions are posed in terms of problems or situations, while the others are in a mathematical setting. These questions may include word problems where one is required to translate it into a math problem. Below are the topics covered in the GRE math section. 

Lastly, the GRE quantitative questions are all about playing with numbers; there is either a correct answer or a wrong one. Candidates appearing for the exam are required to understand the problem before thoroughly answering, carry out a solid strategy for solving the problems, and recheck the answers. Another important aspect to note is that, there are on-screen calculators available for students to use too. Refer to our blog on GRE exam preparation blog to get winning tips on the same. Remember, GRE quantitative practice is the key to acing this section; the more you practice, the more you are aware of the different types of questions that can posed.