GMAT Quantitative Reasoning

GMAT Quantitative Reasoning focuses on mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills essential for success on the GMAT exam.

Advanced Topics

Advanced Word Problems

Tackling Complex, Multi-Step Quantitative Scenarios

Advanced word problems often combine multiple mathematical concepts, requiring you to break down information and solve in steps. These problems might involve rates, work, mixtures, or overlapping sets.

Types of Advanced Problems

  • Rate problems (distance = rate × time)
  • Work problems (combined work rates)
  • Mixture problems (combining solutions or groups)
  • Venn diagrams for overlapping sets

Solving Approach

  • Identify what is being asked and what is given
  • Assign variables as needed
  • Translate words into mathematical equations
  • Solve step by step, checking each part

These skills are vital for the GMAT's trickiest quantitative questions.

Key Formula

\[distance = rate \times time\]

Examples

  • Two trains travel toward each other from 200 miles apart, one at 60 mph and the other at 40 mph. They meet in 2 hours.

  • If it takes John 3 hours and Mary 6 hours to complete a task together, they finish it in 2 hours.

In a Nutshell

Advanced word problems require multi-step reasoning and combining concepts.

Key Terms

Work Rate
A measure of how much work is completed per unit of time.