Students need to master the three main parts of the GMAT test, including Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights, to perform best on the entrance exam for an MBA. This could be done by developing a complete conceptual understanding, practicing under strict time pressure, and maintaining an organized error log to overcome your weaknesses.
To secure a high score in the GMAT, taking premium GMAT classes in Delhi is a reliable approach. Dive into this comprehensive guide to learn everything about the GMAT structure and essential tips to maximize your performance.
What You Need To Know About GMAT Structure
Here is a quick snapshot of the GMAT exam structure:
| Feature | Details |
| Total Duration | 2 hours and 15 minutes |
| Total Questions | 64 Questions |
| Breaks | 1 optional break of 10 minutes |
| Scoring Range | 205 to 805 (All sections weighted equally) |
A Comprehensive Breakdown of GMAT Sections
The GMAT includes 3 sections, each lasting 45 minutes. There is no written or essay part in the GMAT exam. Each section carries equal weight toward the total GMAT score, which ranges from 205 to 805.
The following table presents an analysis of each section:
| GMAT Sections | No. of Questions | Question Types | Section Duration |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning | 45 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | Problem Solving (Algebra and Arithmetic) | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | Data Sufficiency, Multi-source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis | 45 minutes |
Essential Tips to Maximize Your Quantitative Reasoning Performance
It is not important to know advanced math like calculus or other complex theories. This part of the exam tests your skills about applying the basics of math and algebra to solve complex issues in a short period of time. Follow these tips:
- Make sure you are familiar with fractions, percents, ratios, properties of integers, linear equations, and inequalities.
- Although shortcuts are useful, always use scratch paper when solving equations.
- The GMAT tends to complicate simple math problems using lengthy sentences. Learn to translate the English sentences into algebraic expressions fast.
- The test creators often put additional figures or information to distract you. Hence, learn to identify the questions a passage asks.
- In case you find an algebra problem too abstract, just replace all unknowns with some simple figures (e.g., 2, 5, 10) to check which option is correct.
Tips to Maximize Your Verbal Reasoning Performance
The Verbal Reasoning test evaluates your reading comprehension and verbal reasoning skills. Since there are only 2 question types in this test, you need to prepare for both of them entirely.
1. Master Active Reading for Reading Comprehension (RC)
- Don’t get entangled in the technicalities while reading science or history passages. Try to understand the author’s general idea.
- You need to spend a few seconds writing down the summary of each paragraph in a line. It will enable you to find your way around the passage quickly when you read the question.
2. Dissect Critical Reasoning (CR) Arguments
- Learn to differentiate between the introduction and the conclusion of the argument in the CR passages.
- To solve critical reasoning questions, the most important step is to identify the assumption behind the passage.
- Guess the correct answer before seeing the options.
Tips to Maximize Your Data Insights Performance
Data Insights is an interactive component of the test that assesses your proficiency in data interpretation. You will have to digitize, analyze, and synthesize information presented in charts, tables, and texts.
1. Work With Visual Data
- Learn to interpret the most complex graphs, scatter diagrams, and charts in no time.
- Learn how to work effectively with tables. The GMAT offers a handy sort option for questions on data tables; use it to filter the information you need.
2. Learn Data Sufficiency Questions
- Data Sufficiency questions don’t require finding the answer. You just have to determine whether there is enough information to find the answer.
- Check the statements separately, then together, to find the right answer.
3. Synthesize Information From Multi-Source Reasoning
- In Multi-Source Reasoning questions, the information is provided through several tabs. These questions should be approached as a Reading Comprehension passage combined with a data chart.
- Don’t get scared of the large amount of information. You will usually need only a very small bit of it from each tab.
Smart Time Management Strategies
Learning the art of managing your time perfectly across the 64 questions is what guarantees a 705+ score.
1. Establish a Section Pacing Rhythm
Use this table to keep yourself on track during the exam:
| Section | Total Time | Target Pace Per Question |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 Mins | Roughly 2 minutes per question |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 Mins | Roughly 1 minute 57 seconds per question |
| Data Insights | 45 Mins | Roughly 2 minutes 15 seconds per question |
2. Know When to Guess and Go
- In GMAT scoring, missing out on questions can be costly at the end of a section. Always try to take a quick guess rather than running out of time.
- Whenever you feel trapped in a problem that you cannot solve within more than two and a half minutes, make your best guess, mark it as such, if necessary, and proceed further.
3. Use the Question Edit Feature Wisely
- GMAT lets you bookmark a question and return to it later in the section. However, it permits you to edit your answer choices up to three questions in any section, but only right at the end of the section, if you still have some time left.
- Do not waste extra time trying to figure out a problem while taking the test.
The Power of Mock Tests and Error Logs
Efficient practice is critical for achieving high scores on the GMAT. Relying only on GMAT preparation coaching would not be enough. Proper diagnostic skills are necessary to overcome the limitations of scores.
1. Keep an Error Log
Each time you fail to give the right answer to any problem in your practice sessions, do not simply review the right answer, but go further. Record this problem in your error log and find out the answers to three questions:
- Why have I failed this problem? (Was it due to the lack of knowledge, poor timing, or misunderstanding of the question?)
- How will I recognize this trap next time?
- What is the step-by-step procedure for solving this problem?
2. Do Full-Length Mock Tests
- Try increasing your stamina by completing full-length 2-hour and 15-minute practice exams.
- Take the test in a quiet room without additional breaks, using the scratchpad format as you will in the official testing facility. Turn off your cell phone.
Final Thoughts
GMAT success depends entirely on 3 key factors: basic concept knowledge, proper time management, and mental toughness. With an understanding of the question types, identification of errors committed during practice, and use of realistic mock exams, one can be very sure of achieving one’s desired score for MBA admission.
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