Top 10 GRE Quantitative Reasoning Strategies for a High Score

Practice Exams:

View All

Top 10 GRE Quantitative Reasoning Strategies for a High Score

GRE Quantitative Reasoning: Essential Strategies for a High Score

If you’re currently studying for the GRE, you already know that this test requires mastering a wide range of math concepts and problem-solving techniques. Achieving a great GRE Quantitative score means more than just knowing math—it requires developing smart strategies and efficient approaches to tackle the questions quickly and accurately. In this article, we’ll walk you through key GRE Quant strategies, tips, and tricks, helping you maximize your performance on test day. The GRE Quant section tests a variety of math topics, so it’s crucial to adopt every helpful strategy you can to boost your score.

GRE Quant Strategies: What You’ll Learn

We’ll cover the following important strategies throughout this guide:

Tip #1: Use Smart Numbers If Possible
Tip #2: Make Your Calculator Your Friend, Not Your Enemy
Tip #3: Memorize Quantitative Comparison (QC) Answer Choices and Understand Their Meaning
Tip #4: Consider All Given Information in QC Questions
Tip #5: The Phrase “Closest to” Is Meaningful in GRE Quant Questions
Tip #6: Memorize Essential Quant Formulas
Tip #7: Don’t “Game” Which Quant Questions Will Show Up
Tip #8: Treat Variable-In-Context (VIC) Problems Like Any Other Quant Problem
Tip #9: Answer Every Question! (Guessing Strategies Included)
Tip #10: Don’t Double-Check Your Work

Tip #1: Use Smart Numbers If Possible

One of the most powerful and versatile GRE Quant strategies is using smart numbers. If you’ve spent any time preparing for the GRE, you might already be familiar with this idea. Smart numbers are carefully chosen numbers that make calculations easier and faster in problems involving fractions, percentages, or ratios.

What Are Smart Numbers?

Smart numbers are real numbers you select to replace variables or fractions to simplify computations. By choosing numbers that make math straightforward—often multiples or common denominators—you reduce the chance of error and speed up your work.

When Should You Use Smart Numbers?

Smart numbers are especially useful for:

Questions involving fractions, percentages, and ratios
Problems with variables in denominators or complicated expressions
Situations where the question asks for a ratio, proportion, or percentage comparison
The alternative would be to keep variables and solve algebraically, but this often leads to cumbersome, time-consuming calculations. Instead, pick numbers that make the math easy, check the logic, and then match the answer choice.

How to Pick Smart Numbers

Use 100 when dealing with percentages because it simplifies conversions between fractions and percents.
Use the least common denominator (LCD) when working with multiple fractions to avoid fractions of fractions.
Use 1 or 10 when dealing with ratios or simple division to make calculations cleaner.

Smart Numbers in Action: Example 1

Problem:
A certain animal shelter has only cats and dogs. At the shelter, 2/5 of the animals are cats, 1/8 of the animals are vaccinated, and 1/2 of the animals are dogs that are not vaccinated. What proportion of the dogs are vaccinated?
Answer Choices:
A) 1/8
B) 1/6
C) 1/4
D) 1/3
E) 1/2
Solution:
Let’s say the total number of animals is 40 (the LCD of 5 and 8).

Cats: (2/5) × 40 = 16
Dogs: 40 – 16 = 24
Dogs not vaccinated: 1/2 of total animals = 20
Vaccinated dogs: 24 – 20 = 4
The proportion of vaccinated dogs = 4/24 = 1/6 → Choice B

Why This Strategy Works

Using 40, a smart number, converts tricky fractions into whole numbers, allowing quick arithmetic. If you tried algebra, setting variables and solving would be slower and prone to error. Smart numbers transform complex fraction questions into straightforward computations.

Tips for Practicing Smart Numbers

When you see fractions or percentages, ask yourself, “What number makes this easy?”
Try picking different smart numbers to confirm the pattern or logic.
Be cautious: Smart numbers only work when the problem structure supports them (e.g., variables can be substituted). Some questions require symbolic answers, so recognize when smart numbers won’t help.

Tip #2: Make Your Calculator Your Friend, Not Your Enemy

The GRE provides an onscreen calculator for the Quantitative section, but many test-takers struggle to use it efficiently. The calculator is a tool — it’s not meant to replace mental math or smart problem-solving. Knowing when to use the calculator and when to avoid it is critical.

Get Comfortable With the GRE Calculator

The ETS GRE calculator is accessible during the test for all Quant problems. It looks simple, but behaves differently from a physical calculator. You need to practice extensively with the GRE calculator interface to avoid fumbling on test day.

Use official ETS practice materials or trusted prep platforms to simulate calculator use.
Learn its functions, keys, and limitations thoroughly.
Know how to clear entries quickly, use the square root function, and input decimals accurately.

When to Use the Calculator

Use the calculator for:

Complex decimal calculations, such as dividing 1.0021 by 0.21
Large multiplications, like 563 × 10,111
Powers and roots of non-perfect squares (e.g., 133^3 or √111)
Calculations where mental math is time-consuming or prone to error

When NOT to Use the Calculator

Avoid the calculator when the math is simple or when estimation and rules can speed you up:

Basic multiplication or addition (e.g., 8 × 12, 6 + 4 + 3)
Simple fractions and ratios that can be simplified without calculation
Square roots of perfect squares (e.g., √81 or √144)
Problems where calculator input is lengthy or error-prone

Calculator Misuse Example 1

Problem: What is 6^8?
Answer Choices:
A) 1,676,558
B) 1,678,661
C) 1,679,616
D) 1,670,037
E) 1,671,284
Why Not Use the Calculator?
Entering 6 eight times is tedious and error-prone.
Quick Strategy:
Recall the unit digit pattern of powers ending in 6: it always ends in 6. Only answer C ends with 6. So C is correct, no calculation needed.

Calculator Misuse Example 2

Problem: Which of the following equals 12! (12 factorial)?
Answer Choices:
A) 423,734,164
B) 438,309,883
C) 445,622,291
D) 452,550,728
E) 479,001,600
Why Not Use the Calculator? The onscreen GRE calculator cannot handle factorials that large and will give an error.
Quick Strategy:
Any factorial greater than 4! ends with zero (due to multiplying by 10 at some point). Only E ends with 0, so E is correct.

Summary: Calculator Efficiency Tips

Don’t rely on the calculator for simple problems. Save your time and brainpower.
Use rules, properties, and estimation when possible.
Get comfortable with the GRE onscreen calculator before test day.

Tip #3: Memorize Quantitative Comparison Answer Choices and Understand What They Mean

Quantitative Comparison (QC) questions are a unique question type on the GRE Quant section. They require you to compare two quantities and determine the relationship between them. The great news is that the answer choices are always the same, so memorizing them will save precious time during the exam.

What Are QC Questions?

Each QC question presents:

Quantity A
Quantity B
You must decide which quantity is greater or whether the relationship can’t be determined.

The Four QC Answer Choices

The answer options for QC questions are:

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

Why Memorize These?

Because these options repeat on every QC question, knowing them by heart allows you to quickly recognize the structure and avoid rereading answer choices during the test, saving time.

How to Interpret Each Answer Choice

A: Quantity A is always greater than Quantity B (for all possible values).
B: Quantity B is always greater than Quantity A.
C: The two quantities are always equal.
D: The relationship depends on the value(s), and there is no consistent comparison.

Example: QC Answer Choices in Action

Problem:
Quantity A: x
Quantity B: 33
Try plugging in different values for x:

If x = 91, Quantity A > Quantity B
If x = 0, Quantity B > Quantity A
If x = -3, Quantity B > Quantity A
If x = 33, the quantities are equal.
Because the relationship depends on the value of x, Answer: D

Tip #4: Consider All Given Information in Quantitative Comparison Questions

Quantitative Comparison (QC) questions on the GRE often include subtle information that can dramatically affect your answer. Overlooking or misinterpreting a detail can lead to incorrect conclusions. Therefore, carefully analyzing every piece of information given in the problem is essential to arriving at the correct answer.

Understanding the Importance of All Given Information

In QC questions, the information provided is sometimes intentionally limited or presented in a way to test your critical thinking. For example, quantities may contain variables, and conditions such as inequalities or domain restrictions might be provided. Ignoring these can cause you to assume values or relationships that don’t hold.

Always Check for Domain Restrictions

One common trap is ignoring domain restrictions, such as when variables are restricted to positive integers, integers, or real numbers. A quantity might be larger than another for some values but not for all possible values within the specified domain.

Example: Domain Matters in QC

Problem:
Quantity A: √x
Quantity B: -x
Given: x > 0
Analysis:
Since x is positive, √x is positive. Meanwhile, x is negative (since x > 0). Therefore, Quantity A is always greater than Quantity B.
Answer: A

If you had ignored the domain and considered negative values for x, you might have thought the answer is D (the relationship cannot be determined). This example underscores how crucial domain constraints are in QC questions.

Look for Additional Constraints in the Problem Statement

Sometimes, QC questions include statements like “x is an integer,” “x is positive,” or “x is between 1 and 10.” These constraints narrow down the possible values and can guide you to the correct answer faster.

Practice Strategy

Always reread the problem carefully before deciding.
Make notes of any constraints or additional conditions.
Use test cases that respect these constraints to check which quantity is greater or if the relationship can be determined.

Tip #5: The Phrase “Closest To” Is Meaningful in GRE Quant Questions

GRE Quantitative questions sometimes ask you to find a number or value “closest to” a given quantity. This is a signal that approximate calculation or estimation can be very effective, and exact precision is not necessary.

Understanding What “Closest To” Means

When a question says “closest to,” it means that you should choose the answer option numerically closest to the correct value, even if it is not exact. The GRE tests your ability to estimate and eliminate unreasonable choices quickly.

Why Estimation Is Powerful Here

Exact calculations can be time-consuming and complicated. Estimation techniques such as rounding numbers, simplifying expressions, or approximating roots and powers can save valuable time and still lead to the correct answer.

Example: Estimation in Action

Problem:
What is the value closest to √50?
Answer Choices:
A) 6
B) 7
C) 8
D) 9
E) 10
Estimation:
Since 7^2 = 49 and 8^2 = 64, √50 is slightly more than 7 but less than 8. The closest integer is 7.
Answer: B

Tips for Effective Estimation

Round numbers to the nearest easy value (e.g., 49 to 50, 132 to 130).
Use known squares, cubes, or roots to bracket your answer.
Check the reasonableness of your estimate by comparing it to the answer choices.

When Not to Estimate

Avoid estimation when the problem asks for exact integers, precise values, or when estimation might lead to eliminating the correct answer. However, for “closest to” questions, it’s a valuable skill.

Tip #6: Memorize Essential Quant Formulas

Knowing essential math formulas by heart is one of the quickest ways to improve your GRE Quant score. During the test, you won’t have time to derive formulas or look them up. Familiarity with common formulas can save precious minutes and boost your confidence.

Core Formula Categories to Memorize

Arithmetic and Algebra

Sum of an arithmetic series: Sn=n2(a1+an)S_n = \frac{n}{2} (a_1 + a_n)
Quadratic formula: x=−b±b2−4ac2ax = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 – 4ac}}{2a}
Difference of squares: a2−b2=(a+b)(a−b)a^2 – b^2 = (a+b)(a-b)

Geometry

Area of a triangle: 12×base×height\frac{1}{2} \times \text{base} \times \text{height}
Area of a circle: πr2\pi r^2
Circumference of a circle: 2πr2\pi r
Pythagorean theorem: a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2
Volume of a rectangular prism: l×w×hl \times w \times h
Volume of a cylinder: πr2h\pi r^2 h

Statistics

Mean formula: mean=sum of valuesnumber of values\text{mean} = \frac{\text{sum of values}}{\text{number of values}}
Standard deviation formula (conceptual understanding, no need to memorize full equation)

Exponents and Logarithms

am×an=am+na^m \times a^n = a^{m+n}
(am)n=amn(a^m)^n = a^{mn}
log⁡(ab)=log⁡a+log⁡b\log(ab) = \log a + \log b

How to Memorize Effectively

Write formulas repeatedly on flashcards.
Practice applying formulas in problems.
Use mnemonic devices or acronyms to remember more complex formulas.
Group related formulas together to enhance recall.

Why Memorizing Is a Must

Memorizing formulas reduces time spent recalling or deriving them during the test, allowing you to focus on problem-solving. It also reduces stress, making you more confident.

Example: Using the Quadratic Formula Quickly

Problem: Solve 2×2−4x−6=02x^2 – 4x – 6 = 0
Instead of factoring, use the quadratic formula right away:
x=−(−4)±(−4)2−4×2×(−6)2×2=4±16+484=4±644=4±84x = \frac{-(-4) \pm \sqrt{(-4)^2 – 4 \times 2 \times (-6)}}{2 \times 2} = \frac{4 \pm \sqrt{16 + 48}}{4} = \frac{4 \pm \sqrt{64}}{4} = \frac{4 \pm 8}{4}
So, x=3x = 3 or x=−1x = -1.

Tip #7: Don’t “Game” Which Quant Questions Will Show Up

A common misconception is trying to predict or “game” which types of Quant questions will appear on test day. The GRE is designed with a wide variety of questions, and ETS changes the pool regularly. Relying on guessing which questions will show up is risky and can limit your preparation.

Why Guessing the Question Types Is Harmful

The GRE Quant section covers numerous topics: arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis, and more.
The actual questions you see on test day may not match practice tests or popular study guides exactly.
Focusing narrowly on some question types while ignoring others weakens your overall skill set.

Best Preparation Approach

Develop a strong, well-rounded understanding of all GRE Quant topics.
Practice with a variety of question types, including Quantitative Comparison, problem-solving, data interpretation, and multiple-choice questions.
Use official ETS practice materials as your primary resource for realistic question formats.

Example: Don’t Over-Prepare on a Single Topic

If you spend weeks perfecting only geometry problems because you believe they’re more common, but your test has more algebra and data analysis questions, you may be underprepared. Instead, diversify your study plan.

Tip #8: Treat Variable-In-Context (VIC) Problems Like Any Other Quant Problem

Variable-In-Context problems are common on the GRE. They embed algebraic variables within word problems or real-world contexts, such as rates, work problems, or mixtures. Many test-takers find these intimidating, but they should be approached systematically.

Break Down the Problem Step-by-Step

Identify what each variable represents. Write down the meaning of each variable.
Translate the words into algebraic expressions or equations. Convert problem statements into mathematical form.
Look for relationships or formulas you already know. For example, distance = rate × time, work done = rate × time, or concentration formulas.
Use substitution or elimination methods to solve. Once equations are set, treat them like any algebra problem.

Example: Work Problem VIC

Problem:
John can paint a wall in 4 hours, and Mary can paint the same wall in 6 hours. If they work together, how long will it take them to paint the wall?
Solution:
Let the time they take together be tt hours.
John’s work rate = 14\frac{1}{4} wall/hour.
Mary’s work rate = 16\frac{1}{6} wall/hour.
Combined work rate = 14+16=312+212=512\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{6} = \frac{3}{12} + \frac{2}{12} = \frac{5}{12} wall/hour.
Since t×512=1t \times \frac{5}{12} = 1 (they paint one whole wall),
t=125=2.4t = \frac{12}{5} = 2.4 hours.

Tips for VIC Problems

Don’t get overwhelmed by the context. Strip down to variables and equations.
Practice a variety of VIC problems to become comfortable with the language and translation process.
Draw diagrams or tables if it helps visualize the problem.

Tip #9: Don’t Skip Steps, But Avoid Overdoing Them

A common mistake in GRE Quant is either rushing through steps, leading to careless errors, or overdoing every step, wasting precious time. Striking a balance between accuracy and efficiency is critical.

The Importance of Stepwise Problem Solving

Breaking down a problem into manageable steps helps avoid mistakes and keeps your thinking organized. Writing out intermediate calculations, setting up equations clearly, and checking your logic at each stage can save you from errors.

But Don’t Overcomplicate

However, spending too long writing out every single step in detail may cost you valuable time. The GRE is a timed test, and efficiency is key. Develop a streamlined approach where you write only the crucial steps clearly and do mental math for simpler parts.

Example: Solving a Quadratic Equation

Inefficient approach:

Write out the full quadratic formula and every arithmetic step explicitly.
Calculate large intermediate values with pen and paper.
Efficient approach:
Plug values into the quadratic formula directly.
Simplify mentally or with minimal notes.
Move on quickly once you get the roots.

Practice Tips

Use practice problems to refine how much detail you need to write for accuracy.
Time yourself and adjust your pace accordingly.
Learn to recognize when you can skip writing something and do it mentally.

Tip #10: Use the Process of Elimination (POE) to Your Advantage

Process of elimination is one of the strongest tools for GRE Quant. Even if you’re unsure of the exact answer, eliminating wrong answer choices increases your odds significantly.

How POE Helps

Eliminating even one wrong answer increases your chance of guessing correctly among fewer options.
It forces you to think critically about each answer choice rather than rushing.
It can help avoid careless mistakes from jumping to conclusions.

How to Use POE Effectively

Quickly rule out any answers that violate problem constraints (negative lengths, impossible values, etc.).
Use a rough estimation to discard answers that are far off from the expected range.
Cross-check your work by plugging answer choices back into the problem if applicable.

Example: POE on a Number Problem

Problem: Find xx if x2=25x^2 = 25 and xx is positive.
Choices:
A) -5
B) 5
C) 0
D) 10
E) -10
Using POE:

Since xx is positive, eliminate A, C, and E immediately.
Left with B and D. Since 52=255^2 = 25 and 102=10010^2 = 100, the answer is B.

Tip #11: Draw Diagrams and Sketches When Needed

Many Quant problems, especially geometry and word problems, become much easier with a simple drawing or diagram. Visualizing the problem can clarify relationships and reduce confusion.

Benefits of Drawing

Helps identify known and unknown quantities.
Makes it easier to spot formulas or theorems to apply.
Often reveals shortcuts or alternative approaches.

What to Draw

For geometry problems: triangles, circles, polygons, coordinate axes.
For word problems: diagrams of distances, rates, work, or mixtures.
Label all known values and mark variables clearly.

Example: Triangle Problem

Problem: In triangle ABC, angle C is 90 degrees. If AC = 3 and BC = 4, find the length of AB.
Drawing the right triangle and labeling sides makes it clear you can apply the Pythagorean theorem:
AB=AC2+BC2=32+42=5AB = \sqrt{AC^2 + BC^2} = \sqrt{3^2 + 4^2} = 5.

Practice Strategy

Keep a pencil and use the scratch paper for diagrams on test day.
Practice drawing clean, simple sketches rather than detailed art.
Use diagrams to double-check answers.

Tip #12: Understand How GRE Scores Are Calculated to Pace Yourself

Understanding the GRE Quant scoring system can help you pace your efforts and manage time during the test.

GRE Quant Scoring Basics

The Quant section consists of about 20 questions in 35 minutes.
Each question has equal weight.
The score ranges from 130 to 170 in one-point increments.
Adaptive testing: the second Quant section’s difficulty depends on your performance on the first.

How This Affects Your Test Strategy

Accuracy is crucial; one careless mistake can affect your score significantly.
Speed matters, but do not sacrifice accuracy for rushing.
If a question is taking too long, it’s better to make your best guess and move on rather than get stuck.

Time Management Tips

Aim for roughly 1.5–2 minutes per question on average.
Use POE and estimation to answer quickly.
Flag difficult questions and return if time permits.

Psychological Benefit of Knowing Scoring

Knowing how the test is scored can reduce stress, as you won’t feel compelled to get every question perfectly right but rather focus on steady progress.

Tip #13: Master the Art of Plugging In Numbers

Plugging in numbers is an extremely useful strategy, especially for algebraic and Quantitative Comparison problems involving variables. It allows you to test cases rather than relying purely on abstract reasoning.

Why Plugging In Works

Makes abstract problems concrete.
Helps determine relationships or inequalities by checking actual values.
Can reveal hidden traps or nuances.

How to Plug In Effectively

Choose simple numbers that satisfy any constraints (e.g., positive integers, zero, or one).
Test multiple values to confirm if the relationship always holds or varies.
Use the results to select the answer choice confidently.

Example: QC Question with Variables

Problem:
Quantity A: x2+3xx^2 + 3x
Quantity B: 2x+42x + 4
Given: x>0x > 0
Try x=1x = 1:
A = 1 + 3 = 4
B = 2 + 4 = 6 (B > A)
Try x=3x = 3:
A = 9 + 9 = 18
B = 6 + 4 = 10 (A > B)
Since the relationship changes depending on xx, the answer is D (cannot determine).

Tip #14: Familiarize Yourself with Common GRE Quant Traps

ETS often includes tricky elements in questions to test your understanding deeply. Knowing common traps can help you avoid falling into them.

Examples of Common Traps

Misreading the question stem (e.g., asking for “least” but you pick “greatest”).
Ignoring units or unit conversions.
Confusing the meaning of “at least,” “at most,” and “between.”
Mistaking inequalities’ direction when multiplying or dividing by negative numbers.
Assuming variables represent integers when not specified.

How to Avoid These Traps

Read questions carefully and twice if needed.
Circle or underline key words.
Double-check assumptions about variables or conditions.
When working with inequalities, pay special attention to sign changes.

Tip #15:Practice Mental Math and Quick Calculations

The GRE Quant doesn’t require advanced math but demands fast, accurate calculations. Developing mental math skills will reduce time spent on simple arithmetic and free up time for complex reasoning.

Benefits of Mental Math

Speeds up solving arithmetic problems.
Helps quickly estimate and eliminate answer choices.
Improves overall confidence.

Mental Math Techniques to Practice

Addition/subtraction of numbers close to multiples of 10 or 100.
Multiplying numbers using distributive property (e.g., 23×7=(20×7)+(3×7)23 \times 7 = (20 \times 7) + (3 \times 7)).
Dividing by factors (e.g., dividing by 5 by multiplying by 2 and dividing by 10).
Squaring numbers ending in 5 quickly (e.g., 252=2×3×100+25=62525^2 = 2 \times 3 \times 100 + 25 = 625).

Tip #16: Learn to Recognize and Use GRE-Specific Math Shortcuts

The GRE often rewards test-takers who are familiar with specific shortcuts and tricks that can save time and avoid unnecessary calculations. These are not always taught in traditional math courses, but are essential for efficient GRE Quant performance.

Common GRE Math Shortcuts

Multiplying by 5: Instead of multiplying directly, multiply by 10 and then halve the result. For example, 46×5=46×10/2=460/2=23046 \times 5 = 46 \times 10 / 2 = 460 / 2 = 23046×5=46×10/2=460/2=230.
Squaring numbers ending in 5: The square of a number ending in 5 can be calculated using the formula: (10a+5)2=100a(a+1)+25(10a + 5)^2 = 100a(a+1) + 25(10a+5)2=100a(a+1)+25. For example, 352=3×4×100+25=122535^2 = 3 \times 4 \times 100 + 25 = 1225352=3×4×100+25=1225.
Difference of squares: Recognize when expressions fit the form a2−b2=(a−b)(a+b)a^2 – b^2 = (a-b)(a+b)a2−b2=(a−b)(a+b), which simplifies calculations.
Estimation shortcuts: Rounding numbers to the nearest easy figure for quick, approximate answers, which helps eliminate impossible choices.

Why These Shortcuts Matter

They cut down time on simple calculations.
They reduce the chances of errors during lengthy arithmetic.
They give you more time to tackle complex, multi-step problems.

Practice Example

Calculate 97×10397 \times 10397×103 using difference of squares:
97×103=(100−3)(100+3)=1002−32=10,000−9=9,99197 \times 103 = (100 – 3)(100 + 3) = 100^2 – 3^2 = 10,000 – 9 = 9,99197×103=(100−3)(100+3)=1002−32=10,000−9=9,991.

Tip #17: Develop a Strategic Approach to Quantitative Comparison (QC) Questions

Quantitative Comparison questions make up about half of the GRE Quant section and have a unique format. Developing a strategy for these can yield quick points.

Understanding the QC Format

You compare Quantity A and Quantity B and decide if:

A is greater
B is greater
They are equal
Or the relationship cannot be determined from the information given.

Strategies for Tackling QC

Look for Simplifications: Often, the comparison can be simplified algebraically or conceptually before calculating.
Plug In Numbers: Use test values that satisfy the conditions to test whether the relationship holds in all cases.
Consider Edge Cases: Try zero, positive, negative, or fractional values to test the robustness of the relationship.
Avoid Over-Calculating: Sometimes it’s not necessary to find exact values, just understand the relationship.

Example

Quantity A: x2x^2×2
Quantity B: ∣x∣|x|∣x∣
If x=2x = 2x=2, A = 4 and B = 2 (A > B).
If x=0.5x = 0.5x=0.5, A = 0.25 and B = 0.5 (B > A).
So the answer is D (cannot determine).

Tip #18: Build Confidence with Practice Tests and Review Every Mistake

Consistent practice using official GRE materials and timed practice tests is essential. However, the value comes not just from taking the tests but from reviewing every mistake thoroughly.

Why Practice Tests Matter

Familiarize you with the test format and timing.
Help identify your weak areas and question types you struggle with.
Build stamina and reduce test anxiety.

Reviewing Mistakes

Don’t just note that you got a question wrong; understand why.
Re-solve the problem without looking at the solution to reinforce learning.
Categorize mistakes: conceptual misunderstanding, careless error, time pressure, or strategy failure.
Adjust your study plan to focus on your weak areas.

Tips for Effective Practice

Take full-length tests under realistic, timed conditions.
Simulate test-day environment: quiet room, no interruptions, official calculator rules.
After each test, spend significant time analyzing mistakes and planning corrective actions.

Tip #19: Master the Use of the On-Screen Calculator

The GRE Quant section provides an on-screen calculator, but its use is limited. Knowing how and when to use it effectively can save time and reduce errors.

What You Need to Know About the GRE Calculator

Basic scientific calculator with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square root, and percentage functions.
No advanced functions like parentheses or memory storage for variables.
Slower to use than a physical calculator due to mouse clicking.

When to Use the Calculator

For complex arithmetic that is prone to error if done mentally.
To double-check answers for accuracy.
When estimation or mental math is too cumbersome.

When to Avoid the Calculator

Simple calculations that are faster done mentally (e.g., 25×425 \times 425×4).
When using the calculator interrupts your problem-solving flow.
When time is very tight and you need to rely on estimation or shortcuts.

Practice Using the Calculator

Familiarize yourself with the calculator interface before the test.
Practice entering numbers efficiently with the mouse.
Time yourself with and without the calculator to find your balance.

Tip #20: Enhance Your Data Interpretation Skills

Data interpretation questions, including charts, graphs, tables, and data sets, appear frequently in GRE Quant. Strong skills here can secure easy points.

Types of Data Interpretation Questions

Reading values from graphs or tables.
Calculating percentages, averages, and medians from data sets.
Comparing data points and trends.
Understanding relationships like correlation and causation.

Tips for Data Interpretation

Read titles and labels carefully before analyzing data.
Pay attention to scales and units on axes.
Estimate values if exact numbers aren’t necessary.
Watch out for tricky wording in question stems.

Example

A bar chart shows monthly sales for two products. The question asks: In which month were Product A’s sales exactly twice Product B’s?
Scan the chart, look for months where Product A’s bar is roughly double Product B’s height, then confirm numerically if needed.

Practice

Use ETS official practice materials for data interpretation.
Practice with various types of charts and graphs.
Time yourself to build speed and accuracy.

Tip #21: Strengthen Your Algebra Skills for GRE Quant

Algebra underpins much of the GRE Quant section. Being comfortable with equations, inequalities, functions, and expressions is critical.

Key Algebra Topics to Master

Linear and quadratic equations and inequalities.
Manipulating expressions: factoring, expanding, simplifying.
Understanding functions and their properties.
Systems of equations.

Why Algebra Matters

Many GRE Quant problems boil down to forming and solving algebraic expressions. Mastery here saves time and reduces errors.

Practice Suggestions

Regularly solve algebra problems with variables and different constraints.
Review common algebraic identities and formulas.
Practice rewriting word problems as algebraic expressions.

Tip #22: Develop a Growth Mindset and Manage Test Anxiety

Your mindset and emotional state significantly impact your GRE Quant performance. Anxiety and negative thoughts can slow your thinking and cause careless mistakes.

Strategies for Building a Positive Test Mindset

Visualize success and focus on effort over outcome.
Practice mindfulness and deep-breathing exercises before and during the test.
Develop a pre-test routine that calms your nerves.
Reframe challenges as opportunities to learn rather than threats.

Managing Anxiety During the Test

If stuck on a question, take a brief mental pause, breathe deeply, then move on.
Use positive self-talk (“I can handle this question,” “One step at a time”).
Focus on the present question rather than worrying about the whole test.

Tip #23: Use Practice to Identify Your Weaknesses and Strengths

The GRE is a broad test, and everyone has different areas of strength and weakness. Identifying these allows you to focus your study time more efficiently.

How to Identify Weaknesses

Track your accuracy and timing by question type (algebra, geometry, data interpretation, etc.).
Notice if certain question formats (multiple-choice, quantitative comparison, numeric entry) trip you up more.
Reflect on common errors: conceptual misunderstanding, careless mistakes, or time pressure.

Tailor Your Study Plan

Spend more time on topics or question types where you score lowest.
Maintain practice on your strengths to keep them sharp.
Use targeted resources such as video tutorials, practice sets, or tutors for difficult topics.

Tip #24: Final Review and Test Day Tips

As test day approaches, a solid review and good test-day habits can maximize your score.

Last-Minute Review Tips

Review key formulas, shortcuts, and math facts.
Revisit difficult problems you struggled with previously.
Avoid cramming new topics at the last minute.

Test Day Preparation

Get a good night’s sleep before the test.
Eat a balanced meal beforehand to maintain energy.
Bring your ID and necessary documents.
Arrive early to reduce stress.

During the Test

Pace yourself using time checks (e.g., after 10 questions).
Use POE and estimation to save time.
Skip and flag very difficult questions to return to later.
Stay calm and confident.

Final Thoughts: Mastering GRE Quantitative Reasoning for Success

Preparing for the GRE Quantitative Reasoning section can feel challenging, but with the right approach and mindset, it becomes an achievable and even rewarding goal. The key to success lies in consistent practice, smart strategies, and self-awareness.

First, build a strong foundation by mastering fundamental math concepts. Whether it’s algebra, geometry, or data interpretation, having a solid grasp of the basics will empower you to tackle even the most complex problems with confidence.

Second, develop effective test-taking strategies. Techniques like plugging in numbers, process of elimination, drawing diagrams, and managing your time are essential tools that can significantly boost your accuracy and speed. Remember, efficiency is just as important as precision on the GRE.

Third, learn from your mistakes. Every error is an opportunity to improve. Review your practice tests carefully to understand where you went wrong and how to avoid similar pitfalls in the future.

Fourth, cultivate a positive mindset. GRE Quant is not just about numbers; it’s about problem-solving under pressure. Managing stress, maintaining confidence, and staying focused during the test can make a substantial difference in your performance.

Lastly, trust the process. Improvement takes time, and every step forward counts. Regular practice, thoughtful review, and gradual refinement of your skills will prepare you not only to achieve a high GRE Quant score but also to approach quantitative problems with assurance in your future academic and professional pursuits.

Remember, the GRE Quant section tests your reasoning and problem-solving abilities just as much as your math knowledge. By combining strategic preparation with a calm and confident attitude, you’ll be well-equipped to excel.

Good luck on your GRE journey — you’ve got this!