GMAT Quantitative

A comprehensive introduction to the quantitative reasoning skills tested on the GMAT, covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
Arithmetic EssentialsAlgebra FundamentalsGeometry Basics
Word Problems and Translating ScenariosData Analysis and InterpretationAdvanced Algebra and Functions
Quantitative Reasoning in BusinessPersonal Finance and Everyday MathAnalyzing Trends and Making Predictions
Time Management on the GMATGuessing and Elimination Techniques
Arithmetic Essential...Algebra FundamentalsGeometry BasicsWord Problems and Tr...Data Analysis and In...Advanced Algebra and...Quantitative Reasoni...Personal Finance and...Analyzing Trends and...Time Management on t...Guessing and Elimina...
Basic Concepts

Arithmetic Essentials

What Is Arithmetic?

Arithmetic is the foundation of all mathematics, dealing with numbers and basic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. On the GMAT, arithmetic questions test your ability to manipulate numbers quickly and accurately.

Key Concepts

  • Whole numbers, fractions, and decimals
  • Percentages and ratios
  • Prime numbers, factors, multiples
  • Order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS)

Real-World Importance

Arithmetic is everywhere—from calculating discounts at a store to figuring out your monthly budget.

Quick Tips

  • Always check your calculations for common mistakes.
  • Learn shortcuts for percentage and ratio problems.

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to convert percentages to decimals before calculations
  • Not applying the correct order of operations

Practice Makes Perfect

The more you practice mental math and estimation skills, the faster you'll be on test day.

Examples

  • If a shirt originally costs $40 and is on sale for 25% off, the sale price is $40 - (0.25 × $40) = $30.

  • To divide 3/4 by 1/2, multiply 3/4 by the reciprocal of 1/2, which is 2/1: (3/4) × (2/1) = 6/4 = 1.5.

In a Nutshell

Arithmetic is the backbone of quantitative reasoning, covering everything from basic number operations to percentages and ratios.

Key Terms

Fraction
A number that represents part of a whole, written as a/b where b ≠ 0.
Percentage
A way of expressing a number as a fraction of 100.
Order of Operations
The rules that determine the sequence in which operations are performed in a calculation.
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Algebra Fundamentals