GMAT sample

Math section

Math section of the exam consists of 37 tasks which are divided into two types. The first type is called Problem Solving, second - Data Sufficiency. All the assignments consist of questions with multiple choice answers.

Math section of GMAT is designed to assess the ability to operate with quantitative data, as well as the ability to analyze information and solve the typical problems.

Both types of the tasks are mixed in the section. To solve these tasks you should have knowledge in:

• elementary algebra,
• foundations of geometry,
• arithmetic, etc.

Questions in Problem Solving estimate:

• knowledge of elementary mathematics,
• basic math skills,
• the ability to solve problems and to reason quantitatively.

Questions in Data Sufficiency estimate:

• the ability to analyze quantitative targets,
• the ability to distinguish important information,
• the ability to determine whether there is enough information to solve the problem.

Data-Sufficiency questions include an introduction and two statements. You need to decide whether there is enough information to answer the question and choose the only correct answer.

AWA

In Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) you have to write an essay on the analysis of the argument, in which you should demonstrate your ability to evaluate arguments which are contained in the given passage.

AWA is extremely important section of the exam. GMAT is the computerized adaptive test, that’s why the computer searches for certain phrases and words to reveal the structure of your essay; it is advisable to plan the structure of your text, it should consist of an introduction and a conclusion.

Many teachers advice to simplify the language of your essay and choose the most frequently used words instead of expressions characteristic of the literary language, which are not able to estimate the computer.

This section is intended to test:

• The ability to highlight key ideas, reasonably argue and analyze them;
• Your level of English (selection and use of words), knowledge of the rules (grammar and sentence structure).

Integrated Reasoning

In 2012 it was introduced a new section which is called Integrated Reasoning.

• Duration of Integrated Reasoning is 30 minutes.
• The number of questions in the new section is 12.
• The scoring scale is from 1 to 8.
• The points which are received under this section do not affect the overall result of the examination.

Liz Moliski, an instructor for Manhattan GMAT, provides a deep-dive lesson on Multi-Source Reasoning, which is one of the question types tested on the new Integrated Reasoning section of the GMAT:

GMAT Examples of Integrated Reasoning

The new section consists of 12 tasks which are divided into four types:

1. In the first type it is necessary to describe a chart (Graphics Interpretation): questions test the candidate's ability to perceive graphics. Candidates need to choose one answer that can make each statement true.
2. The second type includes two-part analysis: the candidate has a choice of several different assertions and response options, placed in the table. To solve the problem, it is necessary to choose one answer disposed in each column.
3. The third type of job candidate has to analyze the table; the questions are presented in tabular form with some information and a number of options for opposing statements (true/false, yes/no, etc.).
4. In the fourth type of tasks you should analyze the information provided by several sources (Multi-Source Reasoning): the candidate must select the correct variant from one or more sources.