GRE Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus 2024: Important Topics

If you plan to study abroad, clearing exams like the GRE must be on your mind. It is important to carefully understand the exam structure, especially the GRE quantitative reasoning syllabus as this section can be challenging for students. 

It evaluates your foundational mathematical abilities, quantitative reasoning, and mathematical modeling skills. On that note, let’s look at the GRE exam quantitative syllabus. 

Content Areas Covered in GRE Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus

Here is a glimpse of the important topics that are covered under the GRE quantitative reasoning syllabus. 

• Arithmetic- The topics include types and properties of integers (factorization, divisibility, remainders, prime numbers, even and odd integers), concepts like percent, estimation, rate, ratio, absolute value, decimal representation, number sequences, the number line, and arithmetic operations, roots, and exponents. 
• Algebra- Some of the topics include operations with exponents, quadratic and linear equations and inequalities, factoring and simplifying algebraic expressions, relations, functions, and inequalities, simultaneous inequalities, and equations, and coordinate geometry (graphs of functions, intercepts, slopes of lines, equations, and inequalities). 
• Geometry- Topics include circles, parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles (inclusive of 30°-60°-90°, equilateral, and isosceles triangles), circles, other polygons, quadrilaterals, 3-dimensional figures, congruent and similar figures, and 3-dimensional figures (perimeter, the Pythagorean theorem, area, volume, angle measurement in degrees). 
• Data Interpretation- This section covers topics like basic descriptive statistics (median, mean, mode, range, interquartile range, standard deviation, percentiles, and quartiles), data interpretation in graphs and tables (line graphs, bar graphs, circle graphs, frequency distribution, etc.), elementary probability, random variables, and probability distribution, conditional probability, and counting methods like permutations, combinations, and Venn diagrams. 

Symbols, Conventions, Terminology, and Assumptions in GRE Quant

The GRE will use standard symbols, conventions, and terminology in the quants section that you may have come across during high school. However, there are some important points to note:  

• Only real numbers are used and this applies to all numbers that you come across in the test. 
• All the figures will be assumed to lie in a plane unless it is mentioned otherwise.
• Remember that circles, lines, and other geometric figures may not always be drawn to scale. Thus, do not assume the angle measures, lengths, and some other quantities, just as they are shown in the figures. 
• In case questions have geometric figures, use proper reasoning and do not compare or estimate quantities by mere measurement/sight. Coordinate systems and graphical data presentations, however, are drawn to scale and you can estimate, compare, or read them by measurement or sight. 

Types of Questions

You must prepare well for the different types of questions in the quantitative section of the GRE. Here is a closer look at the question types in the test: 

Quantitative comparison- 

These involve comparing two quantities and then choosing the statement that aptly describes the relation between the quantities given in the question. It may be that one quantity is greater than the other and vice versa, and also that they are equal. 

There can also be an option where it is mentioned that the relationship of the quantities is not possible to determine from the given data. 

Sample Question- 
(x + 5)² – (y – 3)² = 0
x + y = 2
 Quantity A: x – y
 Quantity B: 0

A. Quantity A is greater.
B. Quantity B is greater.
C. The two quantities are equal.
D. The relationship cannot be determined from the information given.

Multiple-choice questions with a single correct answer- 

These are questions where you will have to choose just one answer from five possible options. 

Sample Question- 

If 8x+64 = 8-6x, what is the value of x?

1. -4

2. -56

3. 12

4. 7

5. 4

Multiple-choice questions with one/multiple correct answers- 

You will have to choose one or even more correct answers from the list of options. 

Sample Question- 

Which two of the following numbers have a product that is between –1 and 0?

1. -20
2. -10
3. 2^-4
4. 3^-2

Numeric entry questions- 

You will have to put the answer as a decimal or integer within the box. Also, you may also have to input your answer in the form of a fraction in two boxes. 

Sample Question- 

Rectangle R has a length of 30 and a width of 10, and square S has a length of 5. The perimeter of S is what fraction of the perimeter of R?

The answer space consists of a fraction bar, and two boxes, one above and one below the fraction bar. Here, you will be required to fill in the answer.

Steps for Problem-Solving

Here are some problem-solving steps that you should keep in mind while attempting the GRE quants section: 

1. Understand the problem well
   Always read the question with care before starting to solve it. There may be data or specific quantities that need focus with this information in mathematical expressions/words/a mixture of both. You should also understand data given in geometric figures, coordinate systems, or presentations if that is the case. Look out for any conditions, definitions, or formulas, along with working out what you have to do to crack the problem. 
2. Devise and execute the plan
   Strategizing is essential to solve problems smoothly. You should create your strategy for each problem, determining the mathematical expressions/formulas/factors to use and how to come up with the solution. The more you practice, the better you will be able to create your arsenal of strategies to solve problems, which may work in several scenarios. 
3. Evaluate the solution
   Whenever you find the answer, assess whether it is computationally and reasonably correct. Check whether you have given the answer that the question wanted and whether it is consistent with the mathematical concept/fact in place. Check for computational errors while working out the answer. 

5 Tips to Use Calculator Effectively

You will get an on-screen calculator for the Quantitative Reasoning section. Here are some tips that will help you make use of it judiciously: 

• Leverage the calculator for square roots, long division, subtraction/addition/multiplication of numbers with numerous digits, and other voluminous calculations. 
• Do not use the calculator for introducing decimals if you have to give answers as fractions. 
• Some answers may be better answered through estimation and reasoning than taking recourse to the calculator. 
• Do not make a habit of using the calculator, since many questions will not have complex computational requirements. 
• Estimate the answer before using the calculator, to understand whether you have made any errors while entering the numbers. 

Conclusion 

This guide to the GRE quantitative reasoning syllabus will help you come to terms with the basic requirements of the section and what you need to do to prepare effectively for the same. 

Keep practicing as much as possible before the examination to bolster your time-management and decision-making skills.

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