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GMAT is a test of reasoning, not Math and English – if you are preparing for GMAT, you have likely heard this before but in the hustle of your everyday preparation, you have likely forgotten all about it. It is essential to remember this every step of the way, and I will tell you why.
We know that GMAT is not a test of advanced mathematics or complex English grammar. Rather, it is designed to evaluate a test taker’s ability to think critically and reason effectively under time constraints, the skills expected of a skilled Manager. This is reflected in the way GMAT sections are named —”Quantitative Reasoning” and “Verbal Reasoning”— emphasizing that the test’s core focus is on measuring logical and analytical reasoning skills within quantitative and verbal context.
While preparing to take the test, keep this in mind – always! It is something you may forget while traversing those complicated Quant solutions.
GMAT tests what you would require as a manager in the future – reasoning skills, time management skills and keeping the big picture in mind. Unlike traditional exams, it doesn’t test broad knowledge of say, high-level math formulas or advanced grammar rules because that is not what management is about. It requires only a fundamental understanding of Math and English. The most challenging aspect of GMAT is not the difficulty of individual topics but the way the test demands logical thinking. Hard GMAT questions are difficult because they require test takers to arrive at the most efficient and logical path to the solution, often under time pressure. Unnecessary complexity or over-calculation could derail one’s test completely.
For instance, in the Quantitative Reasoning section, you’ll find questions that use basic Arithmetic, Algebra, Number Properties etc. but in ways that test your ability to analyze and reason in quantitative context. Similarly, the Verbal Reasoning section doesn’t require memorizing lists of grammar rules or vocabulary; instead, it evaluates your skill in identifying logical connections, understanding arguments, and analyzing written material. Whatever little learning of Grammar rules could have helped us in Sentence Correction previously has also been removed to keep the focus on REASONING.
To succeed in GMAT’s toughest questions, a test taker must grasp how to apply simple logical principles to complex problems. Let’s look at how the reasoning aspect plays out in Quantitative section using an example that prompted me to write this post.
Quantitative Reasoning Example
On the number line shown, is zero halfway between r and s?
(1) s is to the right of zero
(2) The distance between t and r is the same as the distance between t and –s
This question doesn’t require complex math; it requires logic and visualization.
Statement 1. s is to the right of zero
If s is to the right of 0, 0 can be between r and s or at r or to the left of r etc.
Many cases are possible. 0 is to the left of s in all of them. Not sufficient alone.
Statement 2. The distance between t and r is the same as the distance between t and –s
If the distance between t and r (say 10 units) is the same as distance between t and –s, then –s could be the same point as r. Or –s could be the same 10 units to the right of t. 0 will be between s and –s in both cases (as shown below)
There are 2 cases possible. Not sufficient alone.
Both Statements
Statement 1 gives us many cases but 0 is to left of s in all of them. Statement 2 gives us 2 cases – one in which 0 is to the left of s and other in which it is to the right of s. So, using both statements, only one case is possible, the one in which 0 is to the left of s. So, 0 is halfway between r and s. Sufficient
Answer (C)
No, we do not require to take any variables other than those given to us in the question. We do not need to do any complicated Math involving any calculations. We do not even need to manipulate the question stem in any way. All we need to do is visualize the problem and the given information appropriately.
The hardest GMAT questions require careful thought and logic rather than rote memorization or advanced knowledge. Considerations like the following can help one arrive at logical solutions quickly:
GMAT is a test of reasoning skills above all else. Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and even Data Insights involve using logic and analytical skills to arrive at answers efficiently. By practicing logical reasoning techniques, test-takers can approach even the hardest GMAT questions with confidence, knowing that success on this test depends more on clear thinking than on high-level knowledge. Remember, GMAT is not about WHAT you know — it is about HOW you think.
