How To Score a Perfect 170 on the GRE Quant Section

• GRE Quant Syllabus
• Mistakes You Need to Avoid to Score 170 in GRE Quant
• Effective GRE Quant Preparation
• Important Techniques
• Time Management for GRE Quant
• Mastering GRE Quant Word Problems with the PIES Technique
• ZONEF Technique in GRE Quant
• Using Back-Substitution in GRE Quant MCQs and MAQs
• Mastering Data Interpretation for GRE Quant
• Summary: GRE Tips and Tricks

Which of us here does NOT want a centum? A perfect score on the GRE Quant section, especially considering most of you are looking at applying to top universities. What GRE Quant prep techniques can you employ to ensure you save time? What common pitfalls should you be wary of?

This and more is what we’re going to discuss today.

GRE Quant Syllabus:

Most of you are familiar with the pattern of the GRE. The GRE Quant syllabus includes topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Now, these are all very, very general topics. Arithmetic means number systems, properties of integers, you have ratios & proportions.

You have absolute values. For algebra, you have linear equations, linear inequalities, algebraic expressions, absolute values, yet again, inequalities, and everything.

Geometry -you have everything right from lines and angles, circles, two-dimensional figures, to three-dimensional geometry.

Data analysis – the stuff that you have learned in school is all that’s covered. No higher level of mathematics is tested on the GRE. So it’s going to be easier for you if you recap the concepts you first learned in school.

These concepts and enough practice are all that’s required to get that 170 GRE Quant score. The ETS tends to place more weight on arithmetic and data analysis. By this, we mean, suppose you have 20 questions in each section, you might have close to ten or fourteen questions only on arithmetic and data analysis.

The remaining questions will be divided between algebra and geometry, so prepare well, focus more on these two topics.

That doesn’t mean that you just have to ignore algebra and geometry. You must go through this because we’re looking at only 170. This is for people who don’t have time. Go for arithmetic and data analysis first, and then just go through algebra and geometry. Why? All of the tough questions on the GRE are taken from these two topics.

Also, focusing on arithmetic will make learning algebra easier because algebra is nothing but arithmetic with variables.

Mistakes You Need to Avoid to Score 170 in GRE Quant

Achieving a perfect score on the GRE Quant section requires avoiding two main types of mistakes: calculation errors and conceptual errors.

1. Calculation Errors in GRE Quant

Calculation errors often stem from not reading the question carefully. These include:
Misinterpreting the question due to a quick read-through.
Using incorrect formulas or unnecessary calculations.
Incorrect rounding. For instance, if asked to round 12.346 to two decimal places, the correct answer is 12.35, not 12.34.

A focused approach and careful reading can prevent these errors. Remember Albert Einstein’s advice: spend more time understanding the problem than solving it.

2. Conceptual Mistakes

Conceptual mistakes are prevalent in areas like geometry and data analysis. For example, never assume angles or side relationships from a diagram unless explicitly stated. GRE Quant figures are not always drawn to scale.

Another common area of confusion is between permutations and combinations. Understanding when to use each can be crucial, especially in probability questions.

Effective GRE Quant Preparation

To excel at GRE Quant:
Take numerous practice tests to identify and learn from mistakes.
Review each concept thoroughly until you’re comfortable.
Regularly revisit problems to reinforce learning and correct misunderstandings.

Important Techniques

GRE Quant Practice:

Let’s look at some important techniques that you need to follow to get this perfect 170. A GRE Math cheat sheet. Time management. Reading the question properly. Implement ZONEF, PIES. Apply shortcuts and go for approximations. Back-substitute in MCQ & MAQ. Mark all answers in MAQ. For data interpretation, pay attention to units, scales. Look above & below the graph, values in the x and y axes. Stick to a study plan. Take GRE mock tests and review your mistakes. Maintain a pocket notebook of formulae and shortcuts to go through at the last minute.

Time Management for GRE Quant

Effective time management is critical for maximizing your performance in the GRE Quant section. Here’s how you can strategically allocate time to different types of questions:

Quantitative Comparison Questions: Aim to spend no more than 1 minute per question. If you solve a question quickly, use any remaining time to double-check your answers to avoid careless mistakes.
Numerical Entry Questions: These questions often require more thought and an analytical approach. Allocate up to 3 minutes per question.
Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and Multiple-Answer Questions (MAQs): Try not to exceed 1.5 minutes per question.
Data Interpretation Questions: These can be complex and involve analyzing graphs or large data sets. Allow yourself up to 3 minutes per question.

Additional Tips:

MIGMO Strategy: Use the mnemonic “Make an Intelligent Guess and Move On.” There’s no penalty for wrong answers on the GRE, so it’s better to guess than to leave a question unanswered.
Calculator Use: Avoid using the calculator interface unless necessary. It can be time-consuming to input values, and many questions are designed to be solved more quickly using logical reasoning or estimation.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you manage your time effectively, giving yourself the best chance to reach or exceed your target score on the GRE Quant section.

Mastering GRE Quant Word Problems with the PIES Technique

Word problems can be tricky due to their complexity and length. To tackle these effectively, use the PIES technique, which stands for Partition, Information, Equation, Solve. Here’s how to apply it:

Partition:

Break the word problem into manageable parts. Identify the key elements involved.

Information:

Gather all necessary data from the problem.

Equation:

Use the information to frame a relevant equation.

Solve:

Solve the equation to find the answer.

Example:

Problem: “Alice has twice as much money as Ben. She gives Ben $200. Now Ben has 3 times as much money as Alice. What was the initial amount Alice had?”

Apply PIES:

Partition:

Identify ‘A’ for Alice’s initial amount and ‘B’ for Ben’s.

Information:

Alice = 2B, Alice after giving $200 = A – 200, Ben after receiving $200 = B + 200.

Equation:

Set up the equation from the final condition: B + 200 = 3(A – 200).

Solve:

Solve this equation to find the value of A.

By breaking down the problem and methodically applying the PIES technique, you can simplify and effectively solve even complex word problems in the GRE Math section.

ZONEF Technique in GRE Quant

The ZONEF technique is a valuable strategy for tackling quantitative comparison questions in the GRE Quant section, especially when you need to plug in values. ZONEF stands for Zero, One, Negative numbers, Extremes, and Fractions. This approach helps you test a range of values to thoroughly analyze the relationship between quantities.

How to Apply ZONEF:

Zero and One: Start by considering simple values like 0 and 1 (if applicable).
Negative Numbers: Test negative values, unless the problem specifies positive numbers only.
Extremes: Consider very large or very small numbers to see how they affect the quantities.
Fractions: Don’t forget fractional values, which can often reveal different relationships between the quantities.

Example:

Problem: Suppose x is greater than 0. You need to compare Quantity A and Quantity B.
Quantity A: ¹/_x²
Quantity B: ¹/_x

Options:
A: Quantity A is greater.
B: Quantity B is greater.
C: Both quantities are equal.
D: The relationship cannot be determined.

Application of ZONEF:

One: Plugging in x=1, both A and B equal 1, suggesting option C.
Fraction: Plugging in x=1/2, A becomes 4, and B becomes 2, indicating A is greater.

Given these varied outcomes from different test values, the correct answer is option D: the relationship cannot be determined.

Common Mistakes:

Test-takers often make the error of only plugging in ‘safe’ values like 1 or 2. This approach can miss other critical values like fractions or extremes that lead to different conclusions. By utilizing ZONEF, you can explore a comprehensive range of possibilities, ensuring a more thorough analysis and avoiding premature conclusions.

Using Back-Substitution in GRE Quant MCQs and MAQs

Back-substitution is a practical technique for solving multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and multiple-answer questions (MAQs) on the GRE Quant section, especially when faced with complex algebraic expressions. This method can save time and reduce errors compared to traditional algebraic approaches.

How Back-Substitution Works:

Instead of performing detailed algebraic proofs, you can directly test the answer choices provided. This method is particularly effective in equations involving absolute values or complex expressions.

Example:

Problem: Solve for x in the equation |2 – |x – 2|| = 7.

Steps:
Start with Each Option: Begin by substituting each answer choice into the equation to see which ones satisfy the condition.

Substitute and Calculate:

Option A (x = -5): Plugging x=-5 gives |2 – |-5 – 2|| = |2 – 7| = 5, which does not satisfy the equation.
Option B (x = -7): Substituting x=-7 results in |2 – |-7 – 2|| = |2 – 9| = 7. This is correct.
Option C (x = 1): Using x=1 results in |2 – |1 – 2|| = |2 – 1| = 1, which is incorrect.
Option D (x = 3): Substituting x=3 gives |2 – |3 – 2|| = |2 – 1| = 1, also incorrect.
Option E (x = 11): Using x=11 results in |2 – |11 – 2|| = |2 – 9| = 7. This is also correct.

Correct Answers: From this analysis, options B (x = -7) and E (x = 11) are correct.

Tips for Using Back-Substitution:

Analyze All Options: Especially in MAQs, where multiple answers can be correct, ensure to test every option.
Save Time: Back-substitution can often be quicker than solving complex equations analytically.
Avoid Common Mistakes: In MCQs, only one answer is correct, but in MAQs, one or more may be correct. Ensure you understand the question format before starting.

Back-substitution is not just a shortcut; it’s a strategic approach to handling potentially time-consuming problems in the GRE Quant section, making it an essential technique for test-takers aiming for high scores.

Mastering Data Interpretation for GRE Quant

Effective data interpretation is crucial for maximizing scores in the GRE Quant section. Here’s how to approach graphs and charts to avoid common pitfalls:

Detailed Analysis

Examine All Elements: Carefully review the problem statement, scales, units, and all sides of the graph. Every detail can influence the accuracy of your interpretation.

Key Techniques

Understand Graph Types: Different graphs may represent different aspects of the same scenario. For example, one graph might show the distance traveled during reaction time, while another shows the distance after brakes are applied.
Locate Relevant Data: Identify which graph corresponds to the query:
For distance during reaction time at a specific speed, refer to the first graph.
For the distance after braking at a given speed, check the second graph.
For total stopping distance, sum the values from both graphs, often provided below the graph.

Practical Tips

Use a Pencil: Marking corresponding values directly on the graph can help you quickly find the right information.
Unit Conversion Awareness: Be mindful of units (e.g., speeds in miles per hour vs. distances in feet) to ensure correct calculations.
By closely analyzing every part of the graph and methodically extracting the necessary data, you can efficiently answer data interpretation questions on the GRE Quant.

Summary: GRE Tips and Tricks

Please read the question and all the information properly. Look at the information given on all sides of the graphs. Data interpretation questions require you to spend up to three minutes. Three full minutes.

So, how do you use this time? Allow 2 minutes to read the question and collect all the data given. Use half a minute to read the question and the other half to answer it. It won’t take you longer than that.

Know the format of the Quant section in and out. Trust in what you already know. We do not recommend last-minute preparation.

Finally, always stay positive and focused.