The term Problem Solving refers to one of two formats used for GMAT Quantitative (math) questions. This page lists key features of GMAT Problem Solving questions. It also provides the test directions for this question format, a sample question, and a detailed analysis of the sample.
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Problem Solving Format, Skills Tested, and Directions
Here are the key "specs" for GMAT Problem Solving questions:How many: 23-24 questionsWhere: In the 75-minute Quantitative Ability section, mixed with Data Sufficiency questions Format: Multiple-choice (you select one of 5 choices by clicking on an oval) Skills tested: your ability to reason quantitatively in solving arithmetic, algebra, and geometry problems, and your ability to interpret graphical data (list of specific areas covered) Directions: The following directions will appear on your screen — just before your first Problem Solving question (and you can access them while tackling any Problem Solving question by clicking on the HELP button):
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Directions: Solve each problem and indicate the best of the answer choices given. Numbers: All numbers used are real numbers. Figures: A figure accompanying a problem solving question is intended to provide information useful in solving the problem. Figures are drawn as accurately as possible EXCEPT when it is stated in a specific problem that its figure is not drawn to scale. Straight lines may sometimes appear jagged. All figures lie on a plane unless otherwise indicated.
To review these directions for subsequent questions of this type, click on HELP. |
Sample Problem Solving Question
The following question is typical of GMAT Problem Solving questions. You can select an answer choice by clicking on it.
Quick Tip for Sample Question
Be careful not to inadvertently switch the x-value and y-value, and keep track of your negative signs as you do your pencil work. Careless errors are the leading cause of wrong answers in GMAT Problem Solving questions!
Analysis of Sample Question
This question presents a defined operation in which your job is to apply the operation to the quantities provided. (Expect to see at least one defined operation problem on your GMAT.) This problem involves just about as much pencil work as you can expect for any GMAT question, yet it's not a particularly difficult problem. First, apply the defined operation to the parenthesized fractions: 
Then combine the resulting fraction with the first of the three fractions, applying the defined operation again: 
As you can see, the correct answer choice is  .
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