Perhaps the most important skill that standardized tests, such as the GRE, assess is time management skills. In this article, we will focus on how you can complete the Quantitative Reasoning, or GRE Math, sections in less time!
First, let’s begin by seeing what actually comprises the GRE Math section.
Quantitative Reasoning section:
Within the Quantitative Reasoning section, there are two sets of 20 questions each, which means a total of 40 questions. Each set has a time limit of 35 minutes. Some of the questions require choosing a single option, some require selecting multiple options, while others require inputting a numeric value.
The types of questions you get in your Quantitative Reasoning sections are arithmetic and algebraic calculations, data and graphical analysis, and geometrical reasoning.
Below are some of the strategies and tips on how to attempt the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section:
Strategies to complete the section quicker:
During your practice tests, assess your strengths and weaknesses. If you can do arithmetic calculations quicker but need more time analyzing a graph, make sure you attempt the arithmetic calculation questions first, while allocating appropriate time to other questions.
In general, DI/graphs take longer to read so it is better to attempt them towards the end. Keep 7-10 minutes for graph questions (3 questions per section).
Furthermore, save time in your “Calculator” section by performing mental math. Most “Calculator” questions in the GRE actually do not necessarily require a calculator–that is there to test you. So make sure you do not spend precious time calculating through a calculator instead of doing simple mental math.
Most importantly, since all questions carry equal marks, solve the easy level questions first.
If you find yourself getting bogged down by a question description, mark it and move on. You can always come back to it later, but do not lose your crucial time in rereading the question two or three times. Most times, coming back to the question with a fresh mind works wonders.
The GRE Math has become trickier in recent years. The focus is not on calculation or numbers, but in concepts. So to attempt the questions in less time WHILE answering correctly, make sure you have the conceptual understanding at the tip of your fingers. If you can pinpoint the concept the question tackles, it hardly takes two minutes to solve each question.
So, as you know, the GRE is a score-adaptive test, which means your second section of the Quant Reasoning depends upon how well you do in the first. The first section is always medium-level difficulty, so answer all easy questions foremost.
Suppose you get a hard-level difficulty section for your second Quant Reasoning section, you will have to be even more vigilant with your time management skills. There will only be a few “easy-level” questions in the second section, and you may find yourself marking several questions to return to later.
If that happens, do not worry and do not lose focus. Just attempt the ones you can in your first try and get them out of the way. Now, you can come back to your marked questions one by one and devote more time to each than you could previously have.
DISCLAIMER: Keep in mind that these are general tips and helpful strategies that most test-takers benefit from, especially those you are not too skilled at time management. However, if you figure from your diagnostic and/or mock tests that there are other strategies that are working better for you, choose them for the actual test day as well.
For example, if you find yourself being excellent at graphical analysis, by all means, attempt those first.
If you want to get an idea of where you should be at what time in the section, here’s an idea of what your pace should look like in order you to complete all 20 questions in a given section:
Question Time 5th question8th minute10th question15th minute17th question25th minute20th question32-35th minute (last 3 questions for DI/graph)
Remember, if you can manage your time well in a standardized test, your chances of scoring high automatically increases. Good luck!
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