The Ultimate Guide to GRE Time Management for Quant

Time is precious on the GRE. In fact, time saved equals a higher score.

You have less than a minute per Quant question.

Sound impossible? It’s not!

This guide reveals the secrets of GRE time management.

We’ll answer your burning questions. How do you manage time in the challenging GRE Quant section? Are there effective GRE Quant tips and tricks? How can you boost your GRE Quant score? Is the GRE Quant section getting harder?

Let’s dive in and unlock your potential!

Is GRE Quant Getting Harder?

Is the GRE Quant section hard? Many GRE aspirants ask this. They wonder if it’s getting harder.

Our Galvanize GRE Test Prep package can help you tackle any difficulty level. Our expert faculty has designed it. We’ll prepare you for anything the GRE throws your way.

GRE math is harder than SAT/ACT math. It covers high school concepts. These include algebra, arithmetic, geometry, data analysis, and statistics. The biggest challenge? Time. You have about 1 minute 45 seconds per question. Practice tests are essential for mastering this timing. They also build familiarity with the test pattern.

The GRE is section-level adaptive. Your performance on the first Quant section affects the second. Don’t waste time analyzing the sections during the test. Focus on the questions at hand. The GRE tests skill and fortitude, not just knowledge. It’s a timed exam with adaptive difficulty.

Many test-takers find the GRE Quant section daunting. This is especially true for those who haven’t done math recently. Humanities and science majors may also feel less confident. Even quant majors can struggle with the time pressure. The GRE is a timed test with adaptive difficulty. It tests your skills and your resilience. A positive mindset is crucial. Prepare to put in the work. Practice tests are your best path to success.

Time management tips before the GRE

Even Einstein felt exam jitters. Time management is vital for everyone. It’s especially important for GRE success. This section offers GRE time management tips. These tips cover preparation and test day. Your GRE Quant score ranges from 130-170. We’ll help you maximize your score.

Before prepping, set a target score and test date. Base your target on your chosen universities and programs. Computer Science programs often require high Quant scores.

A comprehensive study plan is crucial. This plan should schedule GRE Quant practice around your commitments. Working professionals need to find time within their schedules. Your target date determines your study time.

Galvanize provides personalized study plans. We consider your diagnostic score, target date, and commitments. Our plans are comprehensive and convenient. Consistent adherence is key. Our course managers provide support and monitor your progress. Just follow their guidance and the plan.

The GRE Quant section has 40 questions. These are divided into two 35-minute sections. Each section has 20 questions.

The total Quant time is 70 minutes. Four main topics are covered: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Data Analysis.

Arithmetic focuses on number properties and operations. Algebra involves equation manipulation and simplification. Geometry requires iterative learning of theories and formulas. Data Analysis demands skill in extracting information.

The GRE Quant section tests quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills. It also assesses understanding of basic math concepts. Arithmetic includes number types, ratios, percentages, and exponents. Algebra covers equations, inequalities, and coordinate geometry. Geometry involves polygons, circles, and 3D figures. Data Analysis includes probability, data interpretation, and statistics.

Prioritize topics strategically. Geometry typically carries less weight. Arithmetic and Data Analysis are more important. Data Analysis often has the most weight. Focus on your weakest areas first, likely Data Analysis. Concept clarity is essential.

GRE questions are easier with strong conceptual understanding. If studying independently, start with Data Analysis and Arithmetic. End with Geometry. Schedule regular practice tests across all topics.

Is GRE math hard? Compared to the SAT and ACT, it’s considered more difficult. However, the math itself is lower level. The challenge lies in tricky vocabulary and higher-level reasoning. The GRE tests fundamental concepts. Fractions, decimals, and number theory are common. Time management is a critical skill.

Practice applying what you learn. Tests are essential for this. Understand the GRE test pattern. Galvanize’s pedagogy includes practice tests, section tests, and mock tests. These simulate the actual GRE. Our students’ mock test scores often match their real scores. Galvanize offers a significant advantage.

Practice is crucial for understanding and applying concepts. Reviewing mistakes is equally important. Galvanize provides personalized feedback after each mock test. This helps you identify weak areas. We use SWOT analysis to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. We then tailor your study plan for improvement. The GRE is section-adaptive. Your first section’s performance affects the second’s difficulty.

For last-minute prep, create a math cheat sheet. This should contain key formulas. Maintain an error log. Track your mistakes to avoid repeating them. Reviewing your GRE Math performance builds confidence. Galvanize provides personalized feedback after each mock test. This helps you understand your errors.

Time management tips on the GRE day

You’ve prepped and followed your study plan, and test day is here. Here are some GRE time management tips for the big day. These are Galvanize’s top 10 math tips for a better GRE score:

1. Neat Scratch Paper: Keep your scratch work organized. This makes it easier to review your calculations.
2. MIGMO (Make an Intelligent Guess and Move On): The GRE has no negative marking. Don’t skip questions. Guess if needed and move on.
3. Calculator Use: Use the on-screen calculator only when absolutely necessary. We’ll explain more about it later.
4. Approximations and Estimations: These are crucial for time management. Use shortcuts and estimations instead of lengthy calculations.
5. Standard Percentages: Learn and use standard percentage shortcuts. Galvanize students have access to exclusive tips and tricks for this, including webinar videos on YouTube.
6. QC Questions: Use a rational approach. Aim to spend no more than 1.5 minutes on these questions.
7. Back Substitution and Elimination: For multiple-choice questions (MCQs), use back substitution and answer elimination. Avoid analytical approaches when possible.
8. ZONEF and PIES: ZONEF helps when plugging in values (Zero, Once, Negatives, Extremes, Fractions). PIES helps with word problems (Parts, Information, Equation, Solving). We’ll cover these in more detail later.
9. Visuals and Text: Use visual interpretation for geometry questions. Rely on textual information for word problems.

On Screen Calculator

The GRE provides an on-screen calculator. However, most Quant questions don’t require it. Tedious calculations are rare. We advise students to avoid the calculator whenever possible. Opening it and inputting values takes time.

If you do use the calculator, remember PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction). Input expressions in this order for accurate results. The calculator is basic. It is not scientific. It may allow you to find square roots.

The ETS focuses on conceptual understanding and application. Complex calculations are not the focus. You won’t be asked to multiply large numbers. Avoid the calculator unless absolutely necessary.

The GRE has a “mark & review” feature. Mark questions you’re unsure about to revisit later. Don’t skip questions. You can mark unanswered questions as “incomplete.”

Keep an eye on the time display. Careful time management is essential. As you practice, your mental math and written calculation skills will improve. You’ll become faster at recognizing patterns and recurring numbers.

While generally discouraged, the calculator can be helpful in specific situations. For example, if a compound interest problem requires calculating squares and you’re stuck, use the calculator to save time. Just don’t make it a habit.

Question-wise Split Up

Let’s discuss time allocation for different GRE Quant question types.

Data Interpretation questions typically appear in sets of up to six. Aim to spend no more than 2-3 minutes per question, averaging around three minutes. These questions often involve simple graphs, but careful analysis is key. Pay close attention to the units and information presented throughout the graph. Check out our YouTube channel for a webinar on Data Interpretation strategies.

Numeric entry questions usually number two or three per section. Allocate about 2.5 minutes per question. These questions may require a more analytical approach. You must fill in the answer directly, which might be a fraction or decimal.

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) usually appear twice. Limit yourself to two minutes per question. Avoid analytical solutions. Use back-substitution and elimination to find the answer.

Multiple answer questions (MAQs) are often considered the most challenging. The same time limit applies. You must select all correct options to receive credit. Partial credit is not awarded. If three out of five options are correct, you must choose all three.

Quantitative comparison questions, as discussed earlier, should take no more than 1.5 minutes each, ideally closer to one minute. Use a rational approach.

Efficient time management is crucial for reviewing your work. Sticking to these time allocations will give you time to check for errors.

Here’s a suggested pacing strategy:

• 35 minutes: Start the first question.
• 25 minutes: Aim to be on question 7.
• 15 minutes: Aim to be on question 13.
• 5 minutes: Aim to be on question 19.

This allows time to revisit skipped or marked questions. Practice tests, especially timed ones, are vital for success. They familiarize you with the exam pattern.

Attempt every question. Proper preparation is essential. Get enough sleep, eat well, and stay calm during the exam. Practice with online and timed tests to build confidence and comfort with the format. This is a key benefit of our platform.

Finally, many universities offer GRE waivers. Should you take one? That’s a separate topic to consider.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

GRE Quant Time Management: A Quick Summary

• To get a good university abroad for the degree you seek, fix a score based on the requirements and start preparing.
• GRE Quant score between 130-170: To get a perfect score, you need to manage time.
• Have a study plan: A Quantitative Reasoning practice chart: Squeeze some time from your day for this.
• Course managers at Galvanize will take the responsibility to get you going if you enroll with Galvanize.
• GRE QUANT: 2 sections, 40 Questions (20Q/section): 70 minutes (35 minutes/section). 
• Main Topics: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Analysis.
• Most weight is carried by Arithmetic analysis intertwined with algebra and data analysis.
• Prioritize weak topics first: Focus on concept clarity.
• GRE math is easier than SAT, and ACT math problems, and the GRE only tests you on simple concepts.
• Brushing up is not enough: One needs to practice a lot and take time to review.
• Get yourself a GRE Math cheat Sheet: A sheet of math formulas.
• Maintain an Error log: So you will never make that mistake again. 
• SWOT Analysis: To analyze your weaknesses and strengths.
• On the day of the GRE:
  • Follow MIGMO: Make an intelligent guess and move on: There’s no negative marking on the GRE.
  • Follow ZONEF and PIES.
  • Go for visual interpretations in geometry.
  • Most GRE Questions won’t require a calculator: So don’t use the on-screen calculator much.
  • Also if you were to use it: you have to remember the important mnemonic – PEMDAS.
  • You have the mark and review later option so don’t leave any questions.
  • Data Interpretation Questions: Spend your full three minutes here. 
  • Numeric entry Questions: 2.5 minutes.
  • MCQ: 2 mins/Q.
  • Quantitative Comparison Questions: 1.5 mins/Q.
  • Spread up your 35 mins in an efficient manner.
  • Have 5 minutes to spare at the end to mark off the reviewed questions.