“Curiosity is the beginning of knowledge, but understanding is the beginning of wisdom.” ~Dr. Debasish Mridha.
Now that you are curious about learning about GMAT syllabus, you must also understand the importance of its various sections and frequently asked questions. In this article, we will shed light on all the critical areas of GMAT exam.
About GMAT Exam
GMAT is one of the most popular globally-recognized entrance exams. It lays the pathway to MBA and other masters programs across 2,400+ schools of the world. Nearly one lakh aspirants appear in GMAT every year. It is conducted by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) all round the year, and the test-takers can choose their preferred exam date and time as per their convenience. However, the difficulty level of the exam is on the higher side and it does pose a stiff competition. So, it is imperative that you get a thorough understanding of GMAT exam syllabus before starting your preparation.
GMAT Exam Pattern
GMAT is a computer-adaptive test that assesses test-takers’ potential based on their expertise in different areas/sections of the exam. It is a 2 hours and 15 minutes test composed of three sections. Each section is of 45 minutes duration, and the candidate has to choose the sectional order prior to beginning the exam. GMAT is scored in the range of 205-805. The following table displays the section-wise breakup of GMAT:
|
Sections
|
No. of Questions
|
Duration(minutes)
|
Marks
|
|
Quantitative Reasoning
|
21
|
45
|
60 to 90 (in 1 – point increments)
|
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
23
|
45
|
60 to 90 (in 1 – point increments)
|
|
Data Insights
|
20
|
45
|
60 to 90 (in 1 – point increments)
|
Further, there is an optional break of 10 minutes which can be taken either after the first or the second section.
GMAT Syllabus
GMAT covers areas that check your suitability for business education. Here, we list the crucial topics and skills required for the exam. Also, you will get to know about the scoring criteria of each part of the GMAT exam syllabus.
Data Insights
In the Data Insights (DI) section, you are evaluated for your ability to analyse data and interpret it. Data is given in form of graphics, numbers or text, requiring you to organize and evaluate it to identify the inter-relations. This section features the following types of questions:
- Two-Part Analysis: This is a complex type of question that involves data in quantitative, verbal, or combination of both formats. In these questions, you may be asked to solve simultaneous equations, deduce relationships, or reach a trade-off.
- Table Analysis: In this, data is presented in tabular format, and you are to sort out the relevant information as per the given conditions.
- Multi-Source Reasoning: Here, data is fetched from multiple sources in the form of passages, graphics, tables, or a combination of all three. You are required to analyze the given data and answer questions accordingly. The questions involve spotting inconsistencies, drawing inferences, or checking data relevance.
- Graphic Interpretation: In this area, information is shown in a graph or any other graphical form (scatter plot, pie chart, bar chart, x/y graph, or statistical curve distribution),and you have to interpret the requisite data, comprehend relationships, and make inferences.
- Data Sufficiency:In this question type, Quantitative problems are given and you have to evaluate two mathematical statements to determine if there is adequate data to solve the question, rather than solving the question itself.
Your DI score depends upon the number of questions you answered correctly. But, since some questions have multiple parts, you are required to answer all parts of such question correctly to get marks for the entire question.
Quantitative Reasoning
Quantitative Reasoning (QR) is another crucial component of GMAT exam syllabus. Similar to the DI section, this also consists of multiple-choice questions. The questions are based on Problem Solving. The topics include basic arithmetic and algebra.
Generally, you will need to know the following concepts to ace QR section:
- Percentage
- Profit and Loss
- Integers
- Decimals
- Fractions
- Quadratic Equations
- Speed, distance and time
- Power and Roots
NOTE: Calculators are not allowed for this section.
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning (VR) is considered a difficult part of the GMAT syllabus. This section has multiple-choice questions from the following major segments: Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.
Reading Comprehension (RC): There are 3-5 RC passages in this section, followed by 3-4 questions each. These questions mainly revolve around the central theme of the passage, supporting ideas, inferences, applications, structure, author’s tone and writing style. RC passages are drawn from the topics of social sciences, humanities, science, business, or management fields.
Critical Reasoning: This part is based on passages of 100-120 words each. Every passage is accompanied by a question. These questions relate to strengthening/weakening an argument, assessing the arguments and suggesting a course of action.
GMAT sections are scored adaptively, and your score will depend upon the number of attempted questions, the accuracy of your answers, difficulty level and other such parameters. Primarily, you will get a higher score if you answer more questions, give more correct answers, and also, the more difficult ones.
So, by now, you are fully acquainted with the GMAT syllabus and should ideally, start a rigorous preparation for the exam!
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