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GRE Quant Section Breakdown


The GRE Quantitative Reasoning section assesses a test-takers ability to reason quantitatively, solve mathematical problems, and interpret data.


The Quantitative Reasoning section consists of two subsections, each with 20 questions, and the test-taker is given 35 minutes to complete each subsection.


The GRE Quantitative Reasoning section covers a range of topics in mathematics, including:


  • Arithmetic: This section includes basic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It also includes topics like fractions, decimals, and percentages. Some of the specific subtopics that are covered in the arithmetic section are:

  1. Operations on integers, fractions, and decimals

  2. Ratios and proportions

  3. Percentages and their applications

  4. Estimation and rounding

  5. Properties of integers

  6. Counting methods

  7. Sequences and series


  • Algebra: This section includes topics such as solving equations, inequalities, and functions. Some of the specific subtopics that are covered in the algebra section are:

  1. Solving linear and quadratic equations

  2. Systems of equations and inequalities

  3. Properties of exponents and radicals

  4. Simplifying algebraic expressions

  5. Functions and their graphs

  6. Linear and quadratic functions

  7. Inequalities and their graphs


  • Geometry: This section includes topics such as plane geometry, coordinate geometry, and three-dimensional geometry. Some of the specific subtopics that are covered in the geometry section are:

  1. Lines and angles

  2. Triangles and their properties

  3. Quadrilaterals and other polygons

  4. Circles and their properties

  5. Three-dimensional figures and their properties

  6. Coordinate geometry

  7. Transformations and symmetry


  • Data Analysis: This section includes topics such as statistics, probability, and data interpretation. Some of the specific subtopics that are covered in the data analysis section are:

  1. Descriptive statistics and data visualization

  2. Measures of central tendency and dispersion

  3. Probability theory and probability distributions

  4. Counting methods and permutations

  5. Combinations and binomial coefficients

  6. Random variables and expected values

  7. Hypothesis testing and confidence intervals


Here is a breakdown of the number of questions that can be expected from each topic:


  • Arithmetic: Approximately 25% of the questions in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section are based on arithmetic.

  • Algebra: Approximately 25% of the questions in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section are based on algebra.

  • Geometry: Approximately 25% of the questions in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section are based on geometry.

  • Data analysis: Approximately 25% of the questions in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section are based on data analysis.


It is important for test-takers to have a strong foundation in mathematics and to practice solving a variety of problems in each of these areas in order to perform well in the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section. Starting your preparation early is key. All the best!


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