GMAT Prep – Quantitative 101

The Quantitative section of the GMAT measures the ability to reason quantitatively, solve quantitative problems, and interpret graphic data.

- mba.com (The Official GMAT Web site)

Here’s what you should expect from the quantitative section of the GMAT:

• 37 questions
• 75 minutes

The quantitative section is made up of 2 types of questions:

Problem Solving (PS) – These questions will require that you solve a mathematical problem and then choose the correct answer. Generally it will test on your proficiency in the following:

• Number Systems, Percentages, Fractions & Decimals, Algebra (including quadratic equations), Geometry (including basic coordinate geometry), Ratio & Proportion, Area & Volume, and Probability.

Data Sufficiency (DS) – These are a trickier type of problem. Rather than solving a mathematical equation out right you will be provided a question followed by two statements, which may or may not lead to an answer to the given question. From the two statements given the test taker must establish which (if any) of the statements can be used to solve the problem and in what combination. Choosing the correct answer from the five statements listed. Here is a sample question:

Question: Is x > 4?

Statement 1: x < 9

Statement 2: x is an integer

Possible answers

A)     If statement (1) e questions, but by itself is sufficient to answer the question, but statement (2) by itself is not;

B)      If statement (2) by its self is sufficient to answer the question;

C)      If statements (1) and (2) taken together are sufficient to answer the question, even though neither one is sufficient by itself.

D)     If either statement by itself is sufficient to answer the question;

E)      If statements (1) and (2) taken together are not sufficient to answer the question, requiring more data pertaining to the problem

These are the two basic problem types that will appear on the GMAT. You will have 45 minutes to answer the 28 questions in this section. For more about the actual mathematical concepts covered check out our GMAT Prep Math Primer.