GRE Math Tricks and Tips for Success

Did you know that 88% of high school students said math was their least favorite subject? The unfortunate problem is that this number does not drop when students begin to prepare for graduate school exams.

Our professional experts provide insight into the GRE Quantitative part itself, the numerous question types, and recommendations for doing well and earning the GRE scores of your dreams in this guide to the math component of the GRE.

The GRE quant portion is divided into two subsections, each of which is 35 minutes long and has twenty questions.

According to our estimates, you must answer all twenty questions in less than two minutes.

Each subsection is divided into the following question types:

• 8–9 problem-solving inquiries
• There are 8-9 quantitative comparison questions.
• 3-4 questions on data interpretation
• Each of these question categories can take several forms, such as numeric input or multiple choice.
• To complete the question correctly and save time, you must pay attention to what the question is asking you.

Score

Passing score recorded on an answer sheet

The quantitative score ranges from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments.

The whole GRE is a segment adaptive test, which means that the difficulty of the second section is determined by how well you score on the first.

So, if you want a high score, you must do well on the first section in order to access the most difficult GRE math problems.

The typical student will score 152 on the GRE math section.

This score may be acceptable for a prospective graduate student majoring in English, but a computer science student will need to score far higher to be accepted for admission.

At the end of the day, the score you require is determined by your desired educational programme.

Now that we’ve split down the GRE quant, let’s look more closely at the question categories you’ll see on practice tests and the actual GRE.

Quantitative Analysis

This question type requires you to compare two quantities, which are usually called A and B. You will next use those numbers to choose which of four statements best describes the comparison. The proper response must satisfy the comparison.

Memorize the answer alternatives for these questions because they are the same for everyone. This will save you time and allow you to concentrate on the numbers themselves. You should also make the comparisons simpler by canceling phrases.

One math advice for this question type is to never choose option D if the amounts do not contain any variables. The arithmetic will show that those two numbers can always be compared and a proper solution chosen.

Multiple Option

• A multiple-choice test
• This is the most simple of questions since it just asks you to choose one of five answers.
• You’ll learn how to answer these questions by taking practice examinations.
• Focusing on the question being asked is one of the GRE math strategies for multiple choice problems.
• While it may seem simple, pay particular attention to phrases like “unless” or “not,” since they will cause your answers to change. When it comes to getting a solid GRE math score, there is no room for error.

Multiple Responses

• This question type differs from the previous one in that you can pick more than one response. It does not mention how many are accurate, therefore you must decide if it is two or all five.
• These GRE estimating questions are ideal. If you know at least one of the correct answers, you can remove possibilities. To successfully answer this question type, you must carefully read the guidelines and use sound judgment to narrow down your options.

Numeric Input

• A blue question mark is written on a piece of paper using a pen.
• This question type does not provide response options and instead requires you to enter your answer into a provided box.
• You might enter an integer, a decimal, or a fraction. This kind was the most difficult for some, and they required as many practice exams as possible to feel comfortable with them.
• Checking the format of your response is a key GRE math tip for numeric entry problems.
• The question generally specifies how you should respond, so be sure you follow through.
• Don’t squander points by answering in inches rather than feet. Throughout the exam, transfer your answer from the calculator to the testing box with care.
• Some queries, for example, may need a rounded answer, which you must provide without using the calculator. That is why we urge that you type the answer rather than copying and pasting it.

Tips for preparation

Understand the Different Types of Questions

When you start studying, the first thing you should do is understand the different sorts of questions you’ll be answering.

Once you understand the framework of the test, you will be more confident in addressing the questions and determining the proper answer.

This post has previously addressed the various question categories, however you can find additional information on the official ETS website. Knowing the GRE math style means you won’t be caught off guard while answering GRE practice problems or taking a mock exam.

Make a Goal

showing someone how to solve a math issue

After you’ve mastered the GRE format, you’ll want to establish a target score.

To do so, you’ll need to complete a practice exam to get your beginning point score. Once you’ve determined it, you may devise a strategy for progress.

Take a completed and timed GRE Quantitative Reasoning portion, which may be accessed through various GRE prep programmes or online platforms, to establish your baseline.

Now that you have that baseline data, look into your prospective graduate school programme and see what their current GRE students score.

Try a Practice Exam

One of our most neglected GRE math suggestions is to take a practice exam. It appears long and tedious, but you will be surprised at how useful it is.

Taking a sample GRE quant section will allow you to practice tactics and test your knowledge.

Practice exams are available online, in preparation materials, and on the ETS website. However, we always recommend that you use a real calculator and set a time restriction when performing these exercises.

Taking the test under realistic settings can help you with pacing and practicing answering questions under time constraints.

Take your time reading.

It is critical that you carefully study each question to avoid making foolish mistakes or making a calculating error.

Nothing is more frustrating than having the correct final answer but typing it into the exam in the incorrect manner.

These trick questions put your reading abilities and ability to follow directions to the test.

They will try to deceive you by including material that will lead to incorrect replies. In order to respond appropriately, be sure you are answering the question. Use the time allotted to solve issues correctly.

Each GRE question assesses your ability to think critically and adapt to different sorts of inquiries. While the GRE will be difficult, focus on completing equations correctly and taking deep breaths to keep calm.

The GRE Quantitative portion is not insurmountable. Simply study ahead of time and use the free materials that are accessible to you.
Because you may constantly acquire new arithmetic abilities, many test takers report significant increases after studying. You, too, may improve your GRE math score with practice.