GMAT Quantitative Syllabus Explained

The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is crucial for anyone seeking admission into a management program. The exam is immensely popular, with a 20% rise in the number of applicants in 2024.

It assesses students' abilities in various areas, like data sufficiency, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. The GMAT quantitative section can be a pain point for students. But, with thorough preparation and knowledge of the GMAT quantitative syllabus, you can ace the exam.  

Here, we have covered the GMAT quantitative syllabus in detail. 

Importance of GMAT Quantitative Scores 

 For students looking to study abroad at top MBA colleges, GMAT is often the first choice. The GMAT Focus Edition is the latest version of the exam. It was launched in late 2023 and is the only edition students can take from February 1, 2024. 

Out of the data insights, quantitative, and verbal reasoning sections, the GMAT Quantitative section holds significant weight in the overall score and can significantly impact the admissions decision. 

It is essential to understand the importance of GMAT Quantitative scores and the weightage given to this section to ensure success on the GMAT exam. 

The Quantitative section of the GMAT comprises 21 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within 45 minutes. 

Types of GMAT Quantitative Questions

The GMAT Quantitative section evaluates the mathematical problem-solving capabilities of the applicant and interpretation of quantitative information. 

Various types of questions are included in the GMAT Quantitative syllabus. Some of the common question types include:

1. Problem-Solving

These questions test the candidate's ability to solve mathematical problems and use mathematical concepts. For example, a candidate might be asked to find the average speed of a car if it covers a certain distance in a given time.

Sample Question: An airplane covers a certain distance at a speed of 240 kmph in 5 hours. To cover the same distance in 1 hour, it must travel at a speed of?

2. Data Sufficiency

These questions test the candidate's ability to analyze quantitative information and make decisions based on that information. For example, a candidate might be asked to determine if the given information is enough to answer a certain question, such as the number of people attending an event.

Sample Question. How many children does M have?

Statements:

H is the only daughter of X who is the wife of M.

K and J are brothers of M.

1. I alone is sufficient while II alone is not sufficient
2. II alone is sufficient while I alone is not sufficient
3. Either I or II is sufficient
4. Neither I nor II is sufficient
5. Both I and II are sufficient

3. Quantitative Comparison

These questions ask the candidate to compare two quantities and determine which one is greater, if they are equal, or if the information provided is insufficient to make a comparison.

Example: A candidate might be asked to compare two quantities, such as the distance traveled by two trains in a certain amount of time.

Sample Question: 

The diagonal of a rectangle

Half the perimeter of the same rectangle

A. The quantity on the left is greater

B. The quantity on the right is greater

C. Both are equal

D. The relationship cannot be determined without further information

It is important for the candidate to understand the different question types and to practice solving various GMAT Quantitative questions to be well-prepared for the exam.

Types of GMAT Quantitative Questions

The GMAT Quantitative section evaluates the mathematical problem-solving capabilities of the applicant and interprets quantitative information. Various types of questions are included in the GMAT Quantitative syllabus. Some of the common question types include:

1. Problem-Solving

These questions test the candidate's ability to solve mathematical problems and use mathematical concepts. For example, a candidate might be asked to find the average speed of a car if it covers a certain distance in a given time.

Sample Question: An aeroplane covers a certain distance at a speed of 240 kmph in 5 hours. To cover the same distance in 1 hours, it must travel at a speed of:

2. Data Sufficiency

These questions test the candidate's ability to analyze quantitative information and make decisions based on that information. For example, a candidate might be asked to determine if the given information is enough to answer a certain question, such as the number of people attending an event.

Sample Question. How many children does M have?

Statements:

H is the only daughter of X who is wife of M.

K and J are brothers of M.

1. I alone is sufficient while II alone is not sufficient
2. II alone is sufficient while I alone is not sufficient
3. Either I or II is sufficient
4. Neither I nor II is sufficient
5. Both I and II are sufficient

3. Quantitative Comparison

These questions ask the candidate to compare two quantities and determine which one is greater, if they are equal, or if the information provided is insufficient to make a comparison.

Example: A candidate might be asked to compare two quantities, such as the distance traveled by two trains in a certain amount of time.

Sample Question: 

The diagonal of a rectangle

Half the perimeter of the same rectangle

A. The quantity on the left is greater

B. The quantity on the right is greater

C. Both are equal

D. The relationship cannot be determined without further information

It is important for the candidate to understand the different question types and to practice solving various GMAT Quantitative questions to be well-prepared for the exam.

Syllabus of GMAT Quantitative Section

GMAT candidates need to be familiar with basic mathematical concepts, understand the problem-solving process, and be able to apply mathematical reasoning to solve quantitative problems. 
Here’s the GMAT quantitative syllabus for your reference: 

• Arithmetic:
  1. Number properties (primes, divisibility, etc.)
  2. Fractions, decimals, percentages
  3. Ratios and proportions
  4. Averages (mean, median, mode)
  5. Exponents and roots
  6. Sets (operations, Venn diagrams)
  7. Probability 
  8. Speed, distance, and time 
• Algebra:
  1. Linear and quadratic equations and inequalities
  2. Polynomials and factoring
  3. Functions and their properties (graphs, intercepts, slopes)
  4. Systems of equations
  5. Permutations and combinations
  6. Exponents 
• Number Theory:

1. Divisibility/Multiples/Factors
2. Number Properties
3. Remainders

• Statistics and Probability:

1. Combinations
2. Probability
3. Statistics and Sets Problems

Tips to Ace GMAT Quantitative Section

The GMAT Quantitative section tests your mathematical skills and ability to use data to solve problems. After carefully going through the GMAT quantitative syllabus,  it is important to perform well in this section, as it significantly determines your overall GMAT score. 

Here are some tips to help you ace the GMAT Quantitative section:

1.Familiarize yourself with the types of questions.

Understand the different types of GMAT Quantitative questions, such as data sufficiency, problem-solving, and quantitative comparison. This will help you know what to expect and how to approach each question.

2.Brush up on basic math skills.

Revisit the basics of arithmetic, algebra, and number theory to build a strong foundation for more complex problems.

3.Practice with sample questions.

Try solving practice questions to get a feel for the format and difficulty level of the GMAT Quantitative section.

4.Manage your time effectively.

Make sure to allocate enough time for each question, and don't spend too much time on one question.

5.Stay focused, and don't panic.

Stay calm and focused during the test, and don't let a difficult question distract you. Take a deep breath and keep moving forward.

Following these tips can increase your chances of performing well in the GMAT Quantitative section and achieving a high score.

Recommended Resources for GMAT Quantitative Preparation 

Numerous resources are available to help you prepare for the GMAT Quantitative Section. Here are some popular options to consider for the quantitative section GMAT: 

• GMAT Official Guide 2024-2025 & Online Question Bank 
• GMAT Official Practice Questions
• GMAT Official Practice Exams
• GMAT Official Practice Exam 1 
• GMAT Official Practice Exam 2 
• Manhattan GMAT (MGMAT) Guides 
• Veritas Prep Guides 
• Kaplan GMAT Math Workbook
• GMAT Club Math Book 

Sample Questions and Explanations 

Here are some questions to give you an idea about the GMAT quantitative section:

Question 1: If a car travels at an average speed of 60 miles per hour for 2.5 hours, how far does it travel?

A) 120 miles

B) 135 miles

C) 150 miles

D) 165 miles

E) 180 miles 

Question 2: Is the average height of the students in Group A greater than the average height of the students in Group B?

(1) The total height of the students in Group A is greater than the total height of the students in Group B. 

(2) The number of students in Group A is greater than the number of students in Group B.

A) Statement (1) ALONE is sufficient, but statement (2) ALONE is not sufficient to answer the question asked. 

B) Statement (2) ALONE is sufficient, but statement (1) ALONE is not sufficient to answer the question asked.

C) BOTH statements (1) and (2) TOGETHER are sufficient to answer the question asked, but NEITHER statement ALONE is sufficient to answer the question asked.

D) EACH statement ALONE is sufficient to answer the question asked.

E) Statements (1) and (2) TOGETHER are NOT sufficient to answer the question asked, and additional data specific to the problem are needed. 

Question 3: A rectangular garden is twice as long as it is wide. If the area of the garden is 72 square meters, what is the perimeter of the garden?

A) 18 meters

B) 24 meters

C) 30 meters

D) 36 meters

E) 48 meters 

Question 4: A group of friends decided to contribute equally to buy a gift for their friend. If each person contributes $10, they will have $5 more than needed. If each person contributes $8, they will be short of $15. What is the price of the gift?

A) $95

B) $80

C) $122

D) $150

E) $140

Tips for Test Day 

Here are some of the best tips for GMAT test day: 

• Get a good night’s sleep: Being well-rested will improve your focus and concentration.
• Arrive before 30 minutes: This will help you avoid last-minute stress and settle in comfortably.
• Take your ID card: Bring the necessary identification and confirmation documents like a passport. 
• Read instructions carefully: Don’t rush through the instructions. Make sure you understand what each question is asking.
• Read each question carefully: Pay close attention to keywords and what exactly the question is asking. 
• Pace yourself: Allocate appropriate time for each question based on difficulty. Don’t get stuck on one question for too long. 
• Use the 10-minute break: Utilize the scheduled break to rest, stretch, and hydrate.
• Answer every question: There is no negative marking system for GMAT. So, if you are unsure about an answer, choose the one that seems most likely.
• Review your answers: If you have time left, revisit the questions you marked for review and double-check your answers.

Bottomline

The GMAT Quantitative section is an essential component of the GMAT and a critical factor in determining the candidate's eligibility for a graduate management program. To ace this section, the test taker must have a strong foundation in mathematics and be able to apply their knowledge to solve complex problems.