What Is in the GMAT Exam?

Overview of the GMAT Exam

The GMAT exam consists of four main sections:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
• Integrated Reasoning (IR)
• Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
• Verbal Reasoning (VR)

Each section is designed to assess different skills that are crucial for success in business school, such as critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, reading comprehension, and written communication.

GMAT Section Breakdown

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) tests your ability to analyze an argument and write a coherent, well-structured critique. You are given a brief argument, typically only a few sentences long, and are asked to evaluate its reasoning.

• Time: 30 minutes
• Number of questions: 1 essay question

In your response, you must identify logical flaws, unsupported assumptions, and other weaknesses in the argument. The essay is not about agreeing or disagreeing with the argument but about critiquing the logic behind it. The AWA is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6.

2. Integrated Reasoning (IR)

The Integrated Reasoning section evaluates your ability to analyze and synthesize data from multiple sources and formats. This section includes a variety of question types, such as:

• Graphics Interpretation: Analyze and interpret graphical data
• Two-Part Analysis: Answer two related questions using data
• Table Analysis: Organize and evaluate data in table format
• Multi-Source Reasoning: Draw conclusions from multiple sources of information

• Time: 30 minutes
• Number of questions: 12 questions

The IR section tests your ability to process data and make decisions based on that data. It is scored separately on a scale of 1 to 8.

3. Quantitative Reasoning (QR)

The Quantitative Reasoning section tests your ability to reason quantitatively, solve mathematical problems, and interpret data. This section contains two types of questions:

• Problem Solving: Standard math problems that require knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
• Data Sufficiency: Determine whether you have enough information to solve a problem.

• Time: 62 minutes
• Number of questions: 31 questions

The Quantitative Reasoning section is scored on a scale of 0 to 60. It focuses on skills in mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.

4. Verbal Reasoning (VR)

The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. It consists of three types of questions:

• Reading Comprehension: Answer questions based on passages you read.
• Critical Reasoning: Evaluate arguments and identify logical flaws.
• Sentence Correction: Correct grammatical errors in sentences.

• Time: 65 minutes
• Number of questions: 36 questions

The Verbal Reasoning section is scored on a scale of 0 to 60. It assesses your ability to think critically and communicate clearly in written form.

GMAT Scoring

The GMAT is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, combining the scores from the Quantitative and Verbal sections. The AWA and IR sections are scored separately. Here’s a breakdown of how the scores are calculated:

• Quantitative + Verbal Sections: Combined score ranges from 200 to 800
• Agricultural Writing Assessment (AWA): Score from 0 to 6 (in half-point increments)
• Integrated Reasoning (IR): Score from 1 to 8

Higher GMAT scores are better, with top business schools typically looking for scores above 700. The scores from the AWA and IR sections are used by admissions committees to evaluate your ability to write and analyze information, while the Quantitative and Verbal scores are most important for admissions decisions.

What Are the Question Types on the GMAT?

The GMAT contains several different types of questions. The most common question types include:

• Multiple-Choice Questions: Most of the questions in the Quantitative and Verbal sections are multiple-choice.
• Data Sufficiency: A unique question type in the Quantitative section that asks whether you have enough information to answer a question.
• Reading Comprehension: These questions assess your ability to understand and analyze written material.
• Sentence Correction: These questions test your understanding of grammar and sentence structure.
• Critical Reasoning: These questions assess your ability to evaluate and critique arguments.

GMAT Test Duration

The GMAT is a long exam that takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete. Below is the breakdown of the test:

• AWA: 30 minutes
• Integrated Reasoning: 30 minutes
• Quantitative Reasoning: 62 minutes
• Verbal Reasoning: 65 minutes

There are also two optional breaks during the test: one after the Integrated Reasoning section and one after the Quantitative section.

How to Prepare for the GMAT

Effective preparation for the GMAT requires a combination of studying, practice exams, and test-taking strategies. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Understand the test format: Familiarize yourself with the structure, timing, and types of questions.
• Take practice tests: Complete full-length practice tests to build stamina and understand your strengths and weaknesses.
• Focus on your weaknesses: Devote extra time to the areas where you struggle the most.
• Use official GMAT prep materials: Utilize the GMAT Official Guide and other official resources for the most accurate practice materials.
• Stay consistent: Make a study schedule and stick to it, ensuring you cover all sections of the test.

Conclusion

The GMAT exam is a comprehensive test that evaluates a range of skills, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. By understanding the structure of the exam and preparing effectively, you can approach test day with confidence and increase your chances of achieving a high score. Whether you're aiming for a top business school or simply seeking to improve your test-taking skills, the GMAT is an essential step in the admissions process.