GMAT Exam Syllabus
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a computer adaptive test intended to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in written English used in admission to a graduate management program, such as an MBA. The most recent GMAT Focus Edition consists of three primary parts: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. Every section tests a certain type of skills that are a prerequisite for leading business schools worldwide.
GMAT Verbal Reasoning Section
This section measures your ability to comprehend written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard English.
- Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Reasoning
- Sentence Correction (Note: Sentence Correction has been removed in the Focus Edition)
- Format: 23 questions | 45 minutes (Focus Edition)
- Skills Tested:
- Understanding logical relationships
- Drawing inferences
- Identifying main ideas and supporting evidence
- Evaluating arguments
GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Section
This section assesses your ability to reason quantitatively and solve quantitative problems using basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
- Question Types:
- Problem Solving
- Data Sufficiency
- Format: 21 questions | 45 minutes (Focus Edition)
- Key Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic: Number properties, fractions, ratios
- Algebra: Equations, expressions
- Geometry: Lines, angles, circles (basic concepts only)
- Note: Advanced math is not required, but logical application is crucial.
GMAT Data Insights Section
Introduced in the Focus Edition, this section evaluates your ability to analyze and interpret data in various formats to make informed decisions.
- Question Types:
- Data Interpretation
- Two-Part Analysis
- Table Analysis
- Graphics Interpretation
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Format: 20 questions | 45 minutes
- Skills Tested:
- Synthesis of data from multiple sources
- Evaluating trade-offs
- Integrating quantitative and verbal reasoning
- Fun Fact: This section mirrors real-world business decision-making, making it highly relevant for future managers.
GMAT Analytical Writing (Removed in Focus Edition)
In the classic GMAT, this section assessed critical thinking and communication through an essay format. However, it is no longer part of the GMAT Focus Edition.
| Section | Duration | No.of Questions | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 minutes | 21 | Problem Solving, Data Sufficiency |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 minutes | 23 | Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning |
| Data Insights | 45 minutes | 20 | Data Sufficiency, Table Analysis, Multi-Source Reasoning, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis |