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GRE Quantitative Comparison Questions: The GRE quantitative section comprises different types of questions such as problem-solving, data analysis, and quantitative comparison questions. Quantitative Comparison is a type of question that specifically appears in the GRE test quant section. In this type of question, the candidate needs to compare two quantities A and B and determine a relationship between which of the two is larger. We are going to discuss this in detail in this article.
GRE: Sample Papers | Preparation Tips | Guide
GRE Quantitative Comparison Questions 2025 will assess you based on the following parameters:
Ability to use basic mathematics
Approximation and simple mathematical calculations
Comparative skills
These are specific types of questions asked in GRE maths. You need not to worry much about it. You just need to learn the strategies to solve such questions. In GRE Quantitative Comparison Questions 2025, you need to compare two values (A and B) to determine if one is greater, if they are equal, or if there isn't enough information to draw a definitive conclusion.
It will be better if you memorize the answer choices for this section. It will save you time during the exam.
In GRE, the other problem-solving questions contain five options. Values in these options are either increasing or decreasing. GRE Quantitative Comparison Questions 2025 contain four options and are the same for each question. In quantitative comparison questions, you need not find the exact numeric answer. These questions are concerned with the relationship between two quantities.
You are given two quantities, one in column A and one in column B. You are to compare the two quantities and choose from the four options.
if the quantity in Column A is greater;
if the quantity in Column B is greater;
if the two quantities are equal;
if the comparison cannot be determined from the information given.
We can understand it better by taking an example of GRE Quantitative Comparison Practice Questions 2025:
Quantity A | Quantity B |
72912 | 491313 |
Options:
if the quantity in Column A is greater;
if the quantity in Column B is greater;
if the two quantities are equal;
if the comparison cannot be determined from the information given.
Solution:
You need to compare the values of A and B.
Quantity A = 72912 = 27
Quantity B = 491313=17
Mark A as the quantity in column A is greater.
Arithmetic and Algebra Fundamentals
Integers: Types and properties such as divisibility, factorization, prime numbers, remainders and odd and even integers.
Basic arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponents, and roots.
Basic mathematical calculations that involve estimation, percent, ratio, rate, absolute value, the number line etc
Operations with surds and indices
Factors and Multiples
Functions and relations
Equations and inequalities
Word problems
Coordinate geometry: intercepts and slopes of lines
Geometry Basics
Parallel and intersecting lines and relation between angles
Circles: Chords and tangents
Triangles: Congruency and Similarity
Quadrilaterals and Polygons: Types and Properties
Area and Perimeter of 2–D figures
Surface Area and Volume of 3-D Figures
Data Interpretation Skills
Understanding basic statistics: Mean, Median, Mode, Range, Standard Deviation, interquartile range, quartiles, and percentiles
Interpreting data stated in the form of charts, tables, and graphs.
Elementary probability: Permutations and Combinations, Events and types of events, Conditional probability, Venn diagram
GRE Quantitative Comparison Strategies 2025 are effective if they help you in a certain way. You can make your strategies but here we are going to discuss some strategies that can help you solve quantitative comparison questions.
Good reading skills enable you to analyze the question prompt effectively. The question statement itself contains all the information that will direct you to a good approach.
Identifying Key Information
Identify the key information from the question statement and reach a logical conclusion using your basic maths knowledge. You should be able to understand the complex question. Also, the language of the question can be in twisted form. So, you must understand the twisted nature of the question.
Understanding the Relationship Between Quantities
Develop a relation between the two given quantities in the form of equations. Use suitable concepts to derive a relation.
You need to understand quickly and accurately about the relative sizes of two quantities. Also, you should recognize that, in some instances, the given information is not enough to make such a decision.
So, you need to grasp the values of the quantities involved and use reasoning to compare them, while also acknowledging that sometimes a comparison may not be feasible.
While Quantitative Comparison assesses a wide range of skills. Therefore, it is compulsory to learn basic and specific techniques for solving QC questions on the GRE. Here are some key strategies that can be particularly helpful:
Using Estimation Techniques
Using approximation and estimation helps you avoid lengthy calculations.
You will be able to understand it better by an example:
Ex:
Quantity A | Quantity B |
29.62% of 120 | 36.5 |
You need to compare the quantities A and B. Since the quantity B is constant, you need to find the value of quantity A.
Instead of finding the value of 29.62% of 120, you should estimate the nearest value by finding 30% of 120 i.e. 36 which is less than 36.5. So, 29.62% of 120 will certainly be less than 36.5.
So, Quantity B is greater.
This is how we can use the estimation technique.
Simplifying Complex Expressions
Sometimes the question statements are more complex. You should break them into simpler ones. To understand it, consider the following example:
Ex:
For x > 5
Quantity A | Quantity B |
x2-2x+5 | 2x2+x-1 |
You need to compare the quantities A and B. Since the quantity B is constant, you need to find the value of quantity A.
If you are going to solve these equations independently and find the possible values for A and B, it will certainly not help you. So, you need to simplify this complex problem using mathematical operations and plugging in numbers.
Subtract x2-2x from equations, we get
Quantity A | Quantity B |
5 | x2+3x-1 |
Now plug in the values of x (x > 5) x2+3x-1 to find the values of quantity B.
First, find the threshold value at x = 5; B = 25 + 15 – 1 = 39 which is greater than 5.
So, quantity B is greater.
For any other values x > 5, Quantity B is always greater than 39.
Therefore, Quantity B is greater.
Utilizing strategic approaches will help you to save your time and improve your accuracy. In addition to quantitative comparison questions, you can apply these techniques to problem-solving questions and data interpretation questions. Also, you can use the approach of solving backwards and the approach of testing answer choices in these questions.
Working Backwards
Working backwards is a strategy that is used to solve some GRE Quantitative Comparison questions, but it is quite more consuming in some cases than the other methods but is more suitable for problem-solving questions.
In this strategy, you should start with answer choice C, which will help you to eliminate 3 options straight away.
Testing Answer Choices
Substitute the answer choices into an equation or inequality to see which one produces the correct answer. Start with your most estimated answer choice first.
It will help you to save your time in more complex problems.
Quantity A | Quantity B |
---|---|
The volume of a right circular cone with a height of 6 cm and a radius of the base of the cone is 3 cm | 61 cm3 |
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.
Solution:
Value of quantity B = 61 cm3
To find the value of quantity A, you must know the formula to find the volume of a cone which is given by 13 πr2h where r is the radius of the base of the cone and h is the height of the cone.
So, Volume = 13 π×32×6 = 18π. Since π = 3.14, 18π gives a value near about 55 or 56. So, quantity B is greater.
Hence, the correct answer is option B.
For x and y are positive integers
Quantity A | Quantity B |
2x2+3y+5 | 2x2+2y-3 |
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.
Solution:
Subtract 2x2+2y from both, we get
Quantity A = y+5
Quantity B = - 3
Since y is a positive integer, Quantity A is always greater.
Hence Option A is the correct answer.
Quantity A | Quantity B |
Average of first 5 odd prime numbers | 91 |
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.
Solution:
Quantity A = 3+5+7+11+135=7.8
Quantity B = 91>9. So, quantity B is greater.
Hence, the correct answer is option B.
During exams, you should avoid the silly mistakes. You should read the question properly. Sometimes the question language is tricky enough to mislead you. It’s normal to make a mistake or two on the toughest questions in the test. However, if you stumble on the first quant section, you’re likely to miss the 170 mark. Do your calculations properly to avoid mistakes in calculations. Here is an insight into common mistakes that should be avoided.
Recognizing Common Pitfalls
You need to recognize the common pitfalls during your exam like
One odd answer choice traps you to mark that choice but it rarely is correct.
Sometimes you find the value of a variable (x) correct but in the question, the value of x2 has been asked.
Identify the silly mistakes.
Identify your weaker parts.
Understand the difference between ‘Could’ and ‘Must’.
Managing your time, especially in long questions.
Identifying the hidden information in the question stem.
Tips for Accurate Interpretation
To avoid common mistakes during exams you should take care of the following:
Master your basics
Solve different types of problems to understand the language variation.
Do not blindly guess the answer.
Practice mental maths.
Do not estimate the answer if you don’t know the solution.
Mathematical errors like 16×5=70 and 67+23=100, may cost you. So, avoid such silly mistakes.
Read the question twice if it is complex.
Understand the question stem carefully.
Don’t follow any pattern in answer marking.
Error Types
Here are some common calculation errors that can occur during an exam.
Error type 1: While doing rough work during the exam, you might misunderstand 7 as 1 or 6 as 0, etc. So, write numeric properly.
Error Type 2: Consider an example 2x-4-2x
If you simplify it, you may write it 2x-4-2x mistakenly instead of 2x-4+2x.
Avoid such errors.
Error Type 3: If you calculate a:b=2:3 but in question, the ratio of b to a is asked and you marked the answer 2: 3 which makes your answer wrong.
Error Type 4: An error in rounding off can occur during the exam. So, take care of it.
Example: 2.5 should be rounded off as 3 but not as 2.
3.7 should be rounded off as 4.
4.3 should be rounded off as 4.
Error Type 5: Errors in multiplication and addition should be avoided.
Example: 67 + 23 is not equal to 100.
19 multiplied by 5 is not equal to 85.
Importance of Accuracy
Accuracy is very important in the GRE maths section. If your solutions are not accurate, it may lead you to a lower score. Also, it may cost you time, and because of that some of your questions may remain unattempted.
You can improve your accuracy by
Focussing on silly mistakes.
Preparing an error log for your mistakes during practice and identifying your mistakes during calculations.
Improving your reading skills.
Also, you should be confident while calculating your answers.
Techniques for Double-Checking Your Work
Here are some tips to double-check your work:
Once you finish your calculation, you are not confident with your answer. Use the ‘Review’ feature to check your calculation later and revisit the question once you finish your exam.
Do not put each question on ‘review’.
During review, check your solution slowly and try to plug in the values from options.
Always double-check your mathematical calculations specifically in complex problems.
Do not estimate your answer before solving otherwise you will be led to find your estimated choice.
There is a lot of study material available online as well as offline. You can discover various resources to help you prepare for the GRE. In this discussion, we will explore some online tools to enhance your GRE preparation.
Top Books for GRE Quantitative Comparison Practice Questions 2025
Features of the best book:
The best book has the following features
It covers all the basic concepts.
It focuses on building concepts.
It contains a mixed bundle of questions easy to moderate to difficult.
It contains GRE previous years’ questions.
It contains more challenging problems.
Some of the books you can purchase are:
1. GRE prep by Magoosh
2. Manhattan Review: The GRE Complete Guide
3. Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions
4. 60+ Math Concepts You Need to Know for the GRE and GMAT (Quick Review Notes) Kindle Edition
Websites and Apps for GRE Practice
You can register yourself at careers360 to take practice tests
Interactive Tools for Skill Improvement
You can study online from several portals or websites. Here are some online portals from where you can prepare for GRE maths
GRE Quantitative Reasoning Sample Questions with Answers
Ask yourself:
Do you find a suitable time to study?
Is your preparation going in a structured way?
Are you finding time to practice your weaker sections?
Do you know the areas in which you are facing problems?
If your answer is ‘No’ to any of the above questions, then you need to develop a study plan. Here are some key points that can help you to develop your study plan.
Structuring Your Study Sessions
Make three study Goals: Monthly, Weekly, Daily
Divide your goal in months depending upon when you start your preparation: Let us say you have started three months before the exam, divide the complete syllabus into two months, and keep one month for practice and revision.
Divide the one-month syllabus into four weeks.
Divide one week’s syllabus into 6 days. (Keep 1 day for rest and to revise your basics.
Target a limited syllabus to be completed in a day and incorporate quantitative comparison practice sessions at each step.
2. Balancing Practice with Other GRE Sections
The other sections of the GRE are also important. You should make your study plan in such a way that you will find time to prepare other sections as well.
To succeed in the GRE, you will score well in the GRE Quantitative section as well as in the other sections. You need to spend time on both depending upon your capabilities.
How to make a balance between the two?
Do not do: Work hard for one section and do the opposite for the second section.
Make a Strategic Balance between both. You should decide how to allot your time at both the macro (monthly) and micro (weekly and daily) levels.
You can take a diagnostic test to determine which section requires more attention. If you plan to study for a total of 12 weeks, consider dedicating the first two to four weeks solely to that more critical section. This will allow you to concentrate fully on the fundamental concepts that need refreshing.
At the micro level, allot time for each section in a day or you can allot alternate days to prepare for each section. Even if you still find that one section needs much more work than the other, make sure you never leave one question type alone for very long.
After some days of preparation, you will be able to know which section should be given more time and you can make modifications in your study plan as per your requirement.
Making study plans and preparing without any strategies will not give you any appropriate results. You should monitor your preparation by taking regular practice tests and diagnostic tests.
Measuring Improvement
To measure your improvement, you should make two logs: One for your scores obtained in your regular tests.
Another is an error log to monitor your mistakes and how your mistakes are improving. Also, maintain a record of the time taken by you to complete a test and the types of questions that are taking more time.
Regularly read your score log and error log to improve your mistakes and time.
Adapting Your Approach Based on Practice Results
Based on your test results, change your strategies and adapt new strategies to improve your score.
Understand the GRE test format, and weightage of each section, and make your strategies accordingly. Here are some final tips to master the quantitative comparison section of the GRE.
To solve the GRE problem-solving questions, you need to master your basics in the areas related to arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics, etc.
Brush up your basics
To manage your time, practice more.
Learn all the key concepts and formulas
Manage stress.
Read the question carefully, understand every hint given in the question, and choose the right strategy to solve the question.
Practice mental maths.
Review key concepts of mental maths like tables, squares, cubes, etc.
Avoid silly mistakes and calculation errors.
There are few things you should work on:
Take a diagnostic test to understand your weaknesses
Plan your study schedules based on the result of the diagnostic test.
Purchase good books to master your basics
Take regular practice tests.
These questions seem to be tough but are easier. You need to compare two quantities based on the information given. It involves calculations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to analyze information and draw conclusions from the results.
You should follow these steps
First Understand the problem statement.
Read the information for both quantities.
Carry out calculations for both quantities and then compare them.
The GRE Quantitative Reasoning (Quant) section consists of 27 questions across the sections to be solved in 47 minutes.
GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, and GMAT are standardized tests often required for admission to universities abroad, but they serve different purposes. The **GRE** (Graduate Record Examination) is used for admission to graduate programs and some business schools, focusing on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The **TOEFL** (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and **IELTS** (International English Language Testing System) assess English language proficiency, often required for non-native speakers applying to English-speaking countries; TOEFL is more common in the U.S., while IELTS is popular in the U.K. and other regions. The **GMAT** (Graduate Management Admission Test) is specifically for business school admissions, testing quantitative, verbal, analytical writing, and integrated reasoning skills, and is required for MBA programs. I would advise that you get in touch with a prominent abroad education advisor - a great one will really help you through the entire process, end-to-end.
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Dear Student,
For admittance to premier universities like MIT, Harvard, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and CMU, your resume must be exceptionally strong.
Even if you address all of the aforementioned criteria, there is no assurance that you will be admitted to one of the universities you have named. When you make a decision, a combination of all these criteria will be taken into account, but these 10 ideas are a fantastic place to start.
I know someone who received acceptance letters from MIT, UC Berkeley, and Carnegie Mellon University for their MS and PhD programmes after scoring between 1400 and 1600 on the GRE. He applied with an excellent resume that included a 9+ GPA throughout college, two years of research in Microsoft R&D, and a few patents. Therefore, what matters is your whole profile.
I hope that helps! I wish you the best!
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