7 Tips To Master GMAT Focus Quantitative Section for a Stellar Score

Preparing for the GMAT Quantitative Section can feel like a journey through varied landscapes—some parts smoother, some more challenging. If you find yourself grappling with the quantitative segment, fear not; strategic preparation and focused efforts can pave the way to success. Whether considering professional guidance or diving into self-study, these seven tips, amalgamating the essence of GMAT preparation, will serve as your compass.

Understanding the GMAT Focus Quantitative Landscape

The Quantitative Reasoning section within the GMAT Focus Edition serves as a pivotal assessment of an individual’s foundational arithmetic and elementary algebraic proficiency, emphasizing the application of these skills to navigate intricate problem-solving scenarios. With a condensed format comprising 21 Problem-Solving questions, this section is time-bound, spanning 45 minutes. Notably, the removal of Data Sufficiency questions to the Data Insights Section and the exclusion of geometry queries mark a distinct shift in this edition’s focus. Moreover, the continued prohibition of calculators underscores the test’s emphasis on mental math and strategic problem-solving approaches.

Problem-solving questions, multiple-choice in nature, evaluate logical and analytical prowess. Crucially, these question types revolve around algebra and arithmetic. There’s no need to fret about trigonometry or calculus; basic high school-level math serves as the foundation for the GMAT Quantitative Section.

Decoding the Difficulty of GMAT Quantitative Section

Despite the apparent simplicity of math concepts, the GMAT Quantitative Section poses challenges through time constraints and the absence of calculators.

Here are seven tips tailored to navigate through these challenges and elevate your quant section performance:

1. 1. Understand the Evolving Format: With 21 math problems to solve in 45 minutes, averaging around two minutes per question, grasp the nuances of the GMAT Focus Edition Quantitative Section. While time management is crucial, allocate additional time to intricate problems when needed, adapting to the new test format.
   2. Don’t overthink the math: First and foremost, don’t forget that the GMAT Focus quant section consists of simple math problems. Use this to your advantage. Don’t do all of the calculations; rather, determine what makes a problem look more difficult than it actually is.
   3. Start managing your time before the test: You can start saving time before you even pick up your pencil by practicing arithmetic. Limiting the time it takes to do simple equations means you can spend more time on the problems. Be sure to review exponent rules and brush up on decimals with fractions. And don’t forget about higher powers!
   4. Use alternative strategies to find solutions: If you can’t solve a problem with simple math, try using an alternative path to the solution. There’s usually an easier way to solve quant problems–the GMAT is designed to test for efficient problem solving. Sometimes, straightforward logic or plugging in numbers will solve a problem faster. Keep in mind that a traditional approach might not be necessary for every problem.
   5. Analyze each sentence step by step: During the GMAT preparation process, learn how to simplify each question. Some problems might seem daunting, but they can be broken into smaller steps that you can solve one-by-one. Trying to solve the whole problem at once can lead test takers to answer the wrong question. The more you break down the problem, the easier it will become. Don’t worry–you’ll actually save time by (re-)reading the questions.
   6. Scratch paper is a must: Although scratch paper may seem unnecessary for quant problems, it can help you keep track of calculations and clarify your thought process. It might take a little extra time, but ultimately, avoidable mistakes are even more time consuming.
   7. Plug in the answer choices: Another way to save time with alternative solution paths is to start by reading all of the answer choices and plugging them into the problem. If you don’t know which answer choices to start with, start from the middle.

Bonus Tip: Diversify Your Preparation: Integrate diverse preparation methods, including rule memorization, video tutorials, and updated professional courses tailored for the GMAT Focus Edition, ensuring a comprehensive skill set.

Embark on your GMAT journey equipped with these strategies, and you’ll forge a path toward conquering the Quantitative Section. Stay tuned for more insights into GMAT preparation. Best of luck on your exam!

Should you have any inquiries regarding the GMAT Focus Edition or wish to explore Apex’s test preparation services, feel free to schedule a 30-minute complimentary call. Our aim is to assist you in reaching your business school objectives. Furthermore, we’ll ensure to keep you updated on the GMAT Focus Edition as more details unfold.