GMAT Integrated Reasoning

A comprehensive guide to mastering the Integrated Reasoning section of the GMAT, including concepts, strategies, and real-world applications.

Basic Concepts

Overview of Integrated Reasoning

What is Integrated Reasoning?

The Integrated Reasoning (IR) section on the GMAT is designed to test your ability to analyze and interpret data from multiple sources and formats. It bridges the gap between quantitative and verbal reasoning by presenting real-world scenarios that require a mix of skills.

Structure of the Section

  • 12 questions to be completed in 30 minutes.
  • Four main question types: Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, and Two-Part Analysis.
  • Uses data from charts, tables, graphs, emails, and other formats.

Why is IR Important?

Business schools value candidates who can make data-driven decisions. The IR section helps showcase your ability to synthesize information and make logical conclusions.

Scoring

The IR section is scored separately from the Quantitative and Verbal sections, on a scale from 1 to 8.

Real-World Value

Integrated Reasoning mimics the challenges you'll face in business school and your career, where interpreting complex data is crucial.

Examples

  • A question that asks you to interpret a graph showing quarterly sales for three products.

  • A scenario where you must compare information from two different email messages to answer a question.

In a Nutshell

An introduction to the format, purpose, and importance of the GMAT Integrated Reasoning section.

Key Terms

Integrated Reasoning
A GMAT section testing data analysis and synthesis skills.
Data Synthesis
Combining information from multiple sources to form a conclusion.