GRE Quantitative Tips and Tricks 2025 - Check Here!

GRE Quantitative Tips and Tricks 2025 - Check Here!

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Nov 23, 2024 12:16 PM IST | #GRE
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The GRE is the essential exam for those who want to go abroad to pursue their master's. In this article, we are going to discuss GRE Quantitative Tips and Tricks 2025 which will help you score well in the GRE Quantitative section. Also, this article will help you to prepare for the GRE Quantitative Strategies 2025.

This Story also Contains
  1. Understanding the GRE Quantitative Section
  2. Overview of GRE Quantitative Reasoning
  3. Question Formats and Types
  4. Top 10 GRE Quantitative Tips 2025
GRE Quantitative Tips and Tricks 2025 - Check Here!
GRE Quantitative Tips and Tricks 2025 - Check Here!

Understanding the GRE Quantitative Section

GRE is a computer-based test (CBT). The time duration of the GRE is 1 hour and 58 minutes. There are five sections on the GRE, and two of those sections are Quant.

Measure

Number of Questions

Allotted Time

Analytical Writing (One section)

One "Analyze an Issue" task

30 minutes

Verbal Reasoning (Two sections)

Section 1: 12 questions

Section 2: 15 questions

Section 1: 18 minutes

Section 2: 23 minutes

Quantitative Reasoning (Two sections)

Section 1: 12 questions

Section 2: 15 questions

Section 1: 21 minutes

Section 2: 26 minutes

Now, let’s discuss the overview of the quantitative reasoning section:

Overview of GRE Quantitative Reasoning

As we have discussed in the previous section, the quantitative reasoning section of the GRE is divided into two parts. In the first section, 12 questions will be there to be solved in 21 minutes, while in the second section 15 questions to be solved in 26 minutes. The GRE quantitative section consists of various types of questions that primarily focus on calculus and its applications, elementary algebra, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and number theory. Approximately 25% of the questions come from other areas of mathematics that are typically covered by undergraduate programs at various institutions.

Question Formats and Types

Here we are going to discuss the types of questions asked in the GRE quantitative section:

  1. Quantitative Comparison:

Quantitative comparison (QC) questions are a question type you most likely have never seen before. These questions demand us to compare two different quantities. These questions are from basic as well as advanced maths.

  1. Problem Solving:

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Problem-solving questions are the first of four main Math question-type variations tested on the new, shorter GRE. These are Multiple-Choice (single answer choice/more than one choice is correct) with five answer choices. Out of which one choice is correct you must select that correct choice.

  1. Data Interpretation:

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Data interpretation questions contain either long passages, graphs, or tables followed by questions. Solving these questions requires analyzing and interpreting the data given in the above-discussed format. These questions can be in the form of multiple-choice questions or numeric entries.

These questions contain Numeric entry-type questions as well as MCQs.

Top 10 GRE Quantitative Tips 2025

With proper approaches and GRE Quantitative Tips 2025, you can score well in the GRE Quantitative section. Here, we are going to discuss the 10 most important tips to solve GRE maths questions.

Tip 1: Master the Core Math Concepts

First, you need to understand the GRE test syllabus of GRE maths so that you will be able to know what you need to prepare. Also, you need to evaluate yourself by taking a diagnostic test before starting your preparation to understand your level.

Review Fundamental Math Skills

You need to review your maths skills. For this, you can ask yourself a few questions.

  • Are you able to solve basic maths problems?

  • What is your accuracy while solving maths problems?

  • Are you afraid of maths?

  • Do you know mental maths?

  • How many topics of maths up to 12th standard, you are confident with?

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Based on answers to these questions, you should make strategies for the preparation.

Focus on GRE-Specific Math Topics

Maths is a very diversified subject. Preparing all topics of maths is not going to benefit you. You should identify the topics related to the GRE and categorise them into sections.

Sections

Topics

Arithmetic and Algebra Fundamentals

  • Integers: Types and properties

  • 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

Geometry and Mensuration

  • Lines and 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 – 3-D Figures


Data Analysis

  • 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


Tip 2: Get to Know GRE Question Types

We have discussed the question types that are asked in GRE maths in the previous section. Here we are going to discuss each type with some examples. Knowing the GRE question types will take your preparation in the right direction.

GRE Quantitative Comparison Questions 2025

These are unique and specific types of questions asked mainly in GRE maths. You need to know the structure of the question and how you should approach to solve these 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 is not enough information to draw a definitive conclusion.

It will be better if you memorize the answer choices for this section. It will save time during exams.

  • The Structure of Comparison Questions
    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 given four options.

  • Types of Statements and Comparisons

    1. if the quantity in Column A is greater;

    2. if the quantity in Column B is greater;

    3. if the two quantities are equal;

    4. if the comparison cannot be determined from the information given.

We can understand it better by taking a few examples:

Example 1:

Quantity A

Quantity B

3

Smallest Prime number

Options:

  1. if the quantity in Column A is greater;

  2. if the quantity in Column B is greater;

  3. if the two quantities are equal;

  4. if the comparison cannot be determined from the information given.

Solution:

You need to compare the values of A and B.

Quantity A = 3

Quantity B = smallest prime number = 2

Quantity A > Quantity B

So, the correct answer is the option A.

Example 2:

Quantity A

Quantity B

Area of a square of side 6 cm

Area of a circle with a radius of 3.5 cm

Options:

  1. if the quantity in Column A is greater;

  2. if the quantity in Column B is greater;

  3. if the two quantities are equal;

  4. if the comparison cannot be determined from the information given.

Solution:

You need to compare the values of A and B.

Quantity A = Area of a square of side 6 cm = 6×6=36 cm2

Quantity B = Area of a circle with radius 3.5 cm = π×(3.5)2=2277272=38.5 cm2

Quantity B > Quantity A

So, the correct answer is the option B.

Problem-Solving Questions

In problem-solving questions, a problem statement is given followed by five options. With a few examples, we are going to discuss the format of the questions that will help you to understand the problem-solving type of question. GRE problem-solving questions are not just plain math questions, but they can be more of it. The following sample GRE math practice question will help you to understand the same.

Example 1:

If the roots of the equation x2-6x-16=0 are a and b, what is the value of a2+b2?

Options:

A. 4
B. 16
C. 68
D. 136
E. 272

Solution:

The roots of the equation x2-6x-16=0 are a and b.

Use the method of splitting the middle-term

x2-6x-16=0

⇒ x2-8x+2x-16=0

⇒ x(x-8)+2(x-8)=0

⇒ (x-8)+(x+2)=0

So, x = -2, 8

Now, a2+ b2=-22+82=4+64=68

Hence, the correct answer is option C.

Example 2:

Which of the following is equal to the arithmetic mean of (27!), (28!), and (29!)?

Options:

A. 841×26!
B. 2523×26!
C. 7569×26!
D. 27×26!841
E. 27×27!841

GRE Quantitative Tips

28!=28×27!

29!=29×28×27!

Required average = 29×28×27!+28×27!+27!3=27!29×28+28+13=27×26!8413=7569×26!

Hence, the correct answer is option C.

Tip 3: Develop Effective Time Management Strategies

Two things are very important for any exam: Accuracy and time management. These are achieved by regular practice and taking practice tests. You need to take care of both factors during practice.

Allocate Time Wisely for Each Question

You will get around 1.75 minutes for each question in the GRE maths section. In this section, both accuracy and time management are important.

In the GRE quant section, if you cannot perform within the time limits, your hard work will not pay you. During practice remember one thing: If you cannot do it within the time limits, it is not going to help you.

You can enhance your time management by:

  • Attempting more practice sets on different portals.

  • Planning well during MOCK tests

  • Practice mental maths

  • Allocating time to each question according to its difficulty.

  • Estimate the answer and move to the next question if you don’t know the correct answer.

  • Don’t struggle with one question.

Practice with Timed Drills

To improve the time for GRE maths, practice with time constraints is a must.

You should do:

  • Allot time to each question according to the difficulty level of the question.

  • Each time try to improve the time taken previously.

  • Practice timed sample papers.

  • Take timed online practice tests.

  • Take a diagnostic test once a week.

Tip 4: Use Strategic Problem-Solving Techniques

To crack GRE quant, you need to develop problem-solving techniques such as identifying the pattern of the questions, developing shortcuts, using approximation and estimation etc.

Learn to Identify Patterns and Shortcuts

Utilizing strategic approaches will help you to save your time and improve your accuracy. You should identify the pattern of the questions asked previously by analysing previous years’ question papers.

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 questions that are 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 using the Trial and Error method

Substitute the answer choices into the problem condition to check whether the answer choice is capable of answering. Start with the most suitable answer choice first.

It will help you to save your time in more complex problems.

  • Learning short tricks

In each topic of quant, you may find several time-saving shortcuts and formulas and you can develop some short tricks by yourself that will help you to save a lot of time during exams.

Use Estimation and Approximation Strategically

To avoid lengthy and tidy calculations, you should use approximation and estimation.

Let us understand by few examples here:

Example:

  1. If we want to multiply 98 by 25, multiply 98 by 100, and then divide by 4 to get the result.

  2. If you want to find the square root of 83, take the square root of 81 to estimate the nearest answer.

  3. Consider one more example:

You buy 41 articles, with each costing $9. Estimate the total cost of the pens.

For this, take 40 instead of 41 and multiply by 10 to estimate the nearest answer.

Similarly, there can be plenty of estimation techniques that will help you to save a lot of time.

Tip 5: Strengthen Your Mental Math Abilities

What is mental maths?

Mental math is doing arithmetic calculations like additions of 2- or 3-digit numbers, multiplication of 2-digit numbers, finding square roots and cube roots, finding squares and cubes, using fractions to solve percentages etc mentally without using pen and paper.

There are three simple steps to strengthen your mental math abilities:

  1. Learn mental maths

  2. Practice mental maths exercises regularly

  3. Apply mental maths techniques in practice tests

Let us discuss these in detail.

Regularly Practice Mental Math Exercises

Practicing mental maths will enhance your calculations which in turn help to solve maths problems quickly and accurately. Here are some suggestions to practice mental math exercises.

  • Solve exercises based on addition and multiplication.

  • Solve simplification problems using BODMAS.

  • Learn squares up to 30.

  • Learn Cubes up to 20.

  • Learn tables up to 30.

  • Learn some specific mental maths techniques such as finding the square of the numbers ending with 5.

Ex: Find the square of 75.

Multiply 7 by its next number i.e. 8 and put 25 in the end. So, the answer is 5625.

Apply Mental Math Techniques During Practice

After learning the mental maths techniques, you need to incorporate them in practice sessions. Apply these mental maths techniques in word problems, quantitative comparison questions and data analysis questions.

You will find:

  • Your accuracy has improved

  • You are getting answers in a quick time

Tip 6: Utilize GRE Prep Resources Effectively

Good study material always helps to score well. You can find GRE prep books offline in hard bounds that you can utilize to master your basics and practice to improve your accuracy and time. These books also contain the question types that are asked in the GRE so that you will be aware of the pattern of the exam and question types.

You can utilize the online portals to take practice tests and practice online. The benefit of online resources is that you can use it anywhere. For example, if you are at a boring party, you can use these online resources to learn some basic concepts and you can watch YouTube videos and you can learn through useful websites that provide you with quality study material.

GRE Prep Books and Study Guides

Here are some good books that will be helpful for GRE maths:

  • Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions

  • GRE prep by Magoosh

  • GRE math workbook

  • 60+ Math Concepts You Need to Know for the GRE and GMAT (Quick Review Notes) Kindle Edition

Online Practice Tests and Resources

Although you may find thousands of online portals or websites that provide study material for GRE maths you cannot trust each of them. Here we are going to suggest some links from where you will be able to a healthy study material.

Tip 7: Prioritize Regular Practice

In your preparation, taking regular mock tests is the key to success. So, the inclusion of practice tests in your preparation is recommended.

Take Full-Length Practice Tests

Practice tests help to identify the strengths and weaknesses. During practice tests, it is important to keep this in mind:

  • The test should be completed within the time limit.

  • Do not use a calculator for any kind of calculation.

  • Make a log of topics that are needed to be improved.

  • Make a log of silly mistakes and try to improve in the next tests.

  • Practice tests should cover the complete syllabus and all types of questions asked in the GRE.

Analyse Mistakes and Adjust Study Focus

Practice tests should be reviewed every time to identify the patterns of mistakes made. Making an error log is recommended to improve the silly mistakes done.

According to the analysis made, more time should be given to the weaker sections.

How to analyze the mistakes in quant:

Keeping a notebook to write down the mistakes will be helpful.

  • Write down the topic, type of question, and related concepts of the wrong questions.

  • Why the solution is wrong?

  • Why the right answer was right?

  • How to improve next time?

Tip 8: Seek Professional Guidance

A professional who is involved in tutoring the GRE quant can guide you in the right direction or you can take guidance from a person who cracked the GRE exam.

Professional guidance will help you in certain ways like

  • Giving some useful tips to boost your preparation

  • Can help you to select a good study material

  • Can help you with difficult problems etc.

Consider a GRE Tutor or Prep Course

You can subscribe to some free YouTube channels or you can purchase online courses to boost your preparation for the GRE. You take a free prep course on YouTube or you can purchase an online course from a good institute.

Here are some expert GRE Quantitative Tips and Tricks 2025

Tip 1: GRE questions are easier than they appear. Learn to apply the concepts and GRE formulas in ways.

Tip 2: Master your basics.

Tip 3: Do not make silly mistakes.

Tip 4: Make a habit to create short notes and flashcards

Tip 5: Be an active participant in your learning.

Tip 6: Do not use more resources for GRE quant.

Join Study Groups or Online Forums

You may find some friends who are also preparing for the GRE, and make a group with them to discuss the new trends in the exam or to discuss the difficult problems and concepts. You can make a study group on WhatsApp etc to discuss them.

Also, you can join an online study forum or groups to share experiences, inspire, and encourage each other. This practice will help you to understand your mistakes, clear your doubts, and encourage you to compete. It also helps you to learn new tricks to solve the GRE maths problems quickly.

There are too many GRE online study groups that you can find online. Also, you can start your own GRE study group.

Tip 9: Maintain Calm and Confidence During the Test

Test anxiety is very common. To help you stay calm and confident right before and during the test, here are some relaxation techniques.

Develop Relaxation Techniques

Last-minute stress may destroy your preparation and hard work. So, to remove stress, here are some suggestions to follow:

You should not do before the exam:

  • Thinking about the exam.

  • Take stress.

You should do:

  • Do not study till you enter the exam hall. Leave study at least 1 hr of the exam.

  • Keep a bottle of water (if allowed).

  • Drink water when you feel stressed.

  • Do meditation.

  • Must check your belongings like an admit card, pen, and identity proof to avoid last minute rush.

  • Do not waste time on any questions during the exam.

  • Be confident and focused.

Trust in Your Preparation and Approach

You have prepared for the exam entire year or several months. So, trust in your preparation. Do not get influenced by others.

In addition, you should do:

  • Make sure that you have revised all the topics.

  • When a question pops up on the screen, read it twice. Read the question stem properly.

  • If you cannot think of an efficient way to solve the question, quickly guess and move on.

Tip 10: Evaluate and Refine Your GRE Quantitative Strategies 2025

Evaluate the areas where you need improvement and use practice problems to reinforce your skills. Also, focus on the areas in which time improvement is required.

The GRE is a timed test, so it becomes crucial to manage your time effectively to maximize the GRE score. So, you need to review your test scores to identify your weaknesses and adapt the study methods based on this analysis.

Review Performance and Identify Weaknesses

After completing each practice test, it is important to evaluate and understand your results. You can do it by monitoring your performance across the different sections and comparing it with your past test results. This helps you to find out the areas in which you need improvement as well as those where you face challenges.
With this insight, you can revise your GRE Quantitative Strategies 2025 or study strategies and concentrate your efforts more effectively. Furthermore, the results can guide you in prioritizing the topics that require additional review and practice.

Adapt Study Methods Based on Performance Analysis
Based on the review and performance analysis, the following measures are recommended:

  1. Give more time to master the weaker concepts.

  2. Practice more questions that you find difficult to understand.

  3. If you find difficulty in a particular type of question, include more practice tests on that question type.

  4. If you find it difficult to solve the questions within the time limit, then practice more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many questions in GRE quants, I can miss?

You can miss around 3-4 questions out of 27 questions.

2. How much time, will I get to solve the GRE quantitative section?

You will get 21 minutes to solve 12 questions in section 1 and 26 minutes to solve 15 questions in section 2.

3. Is an onscreen calculator provided?

For some questions, on screen calculator is provided but most of the questions, do not require the calculator. So, do not use the calculator unnecessarily even if it is provided.

4. What is GRE quant score percentile?

27 Questions divided into 2 Sections, 47 minutes in total. The quantitative reasoning score can range from 130-170 in one-point increments.

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Questions related to GRE

Have a question related to GRE ?

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.


For pursuing a PhD, the subject you choose for the GRE largely depends on your intended field of study. Generally, you will need to take the GRE General Test, which assesses your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Additionally, some programs may require or recommend a GRE Subject Test, which focuses on specific fields such as biology, chemistry, literature, mathematics, physics, and psychology. To get personalized guidance and tailored recommendations on choosing the right subject for your GRE and further assistance with your PhD applications, consider consulting Invicta Career Consultancy, which specializes in helping students navigate the complexities of studying abroad, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get a consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

Choosing the best GRE coaching center in Hyderabad depends on various factors such as the quality of faculty, study materials, class size, and the success rate of the institute. Look for centers that offer comprehensive courses, personalized attention, flexible timings, and extensive practice tests. Additionally, consider the center's reputation, feedback from former students, and any additional resources like online support or library access. Visiting a few centers to get a feel for their teaching style and environment can also help in making an informed decision.

Yes, pursuing an M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) through the GRE is possible. Many universities, especially in the US, accept GRE scores for admission into their master's programs in CSE. Strong GRE scores, along with a solid academic record, relevant work experience, and a compelling statement of purpose, can enhance your chances of admission. For personalized guidance and to navigate the application process effectively, consider reaching out to Invicta Career Consultancy, which can provide expert advice and support tailored to your goals, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

Dear Student,

For admittance to premier universities like MIT, Harvard, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and CMU, your resume must be exceptionally strong.

  • GRE - on the safe side, 325+
  • GPA of at least 110 and a TOEFL score of at least 110.
  • Do as many articles as you can, attempt to participate in research activities at your college, and if at all feasible, try to obtain patents.
  • Internships: I firmly feel that internships are important. Utilize your vacation time for internships, and attempt to concentrate on professions that are research-based or pure CS.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Present Papers, Participate in GSOC and Other Coding Events, etc.
  • Do two or more projects during your undergraduate studies, preferably ones that are linked to your field of study.
  • Work Experience - This is an optional consideration, but if you spend a few years in a top product company's R&D, it might be worthwhile.
  • Put a lot of time and work crafting your SOP and make sure it accurately expresses your reasons for obtaining an MS in Computer Science.
  • Get letters of recommendation from top management at your job and from research faculty at your college—they must know you!

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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