The GMAT Quantitative section consists of problem solving and data sufficiency sub sections. Even though most questions revolve around few basic concepts, a high score can only be achieved once a candidate learns how to break down complex problems into their basics. Therefore having a strong hold at the math concepts is a prerequisite. After which, let us look at how a student can tackle tricky Quant section successfully:
Refer Official Guide for type of questions: It is highly recommended that a GMAT candidate knows the syllabus and format of the questions thoroughly. The official guide is the best source for the same. Understand the sections in quant. How many questions of each type can appear in an exam? The minimum number of right answers needed for a high score. Such information should be understood clearly and remembered.
Identify strong areas: Identify your strong areas in Math. Allocate lesser time for answering those. Also practice well to key out such questions in the exam. You will save time with these questions. But make sure you have practiced enough to guarantee accuracy.
Simplify lengthy word problems: Most of the GMAT quant questions combine two or more concepts together. It gets tougher when they appear as lengthy word problems. Reading so many lines and absorbing the same can be time consuming. Hence, try to translate the word problems into corresponding variables and equations as and when you read it. This ensures you get all the data on your worksheet and also you do not have to read the problem multiple times.
Look out for traps: Many quant questions have subtle hints and traps in them. Make a list of the categories and try to identify the same each time you practice quant section. Even getting few of these answers right will help your score in a beneficial way. Solve puzzles on regular basis, be it in newspapers or magazines or Internet or even a puzzle book. This helps keep your mind sharp and allows for alternate methods of solving.
Guessing should be the last option: Most of the answers in quant section are value based which require calculation to achieve the result. Do not guess unless you are running out of time and are at a risk of leaving the question unanswered. If you have little more time, then try to calculate backwards by trying to fit the answer options and see if the question still makes sense. Then eliminate the wrong answers.
Practice Data sufficiency: With a lot of practice in quant section, you will realize that data sufficiency questions take more time than problem solving. Spend sufficient time to analyze the various types of Data sufficiency questions and thoroughly practice the variations in each type.
Choose the strategy that works for you: Quant section strategies, tricks and short cut methods are many. Try to find which ones you are comfortable with most. Make a note of these strategies and apply them wisely. Do not blindly follow all the methods available in various sources. That can lead to more confusion than clarity.
