GRE Quantitative Reasoning

The GRE Quantitative Reasoning section assesses your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information, as well as to solve problems using mathematical concepts.

Arithmetic and Number PropertiesAlgebraic Expressions and EquationsData Interpretation
Geometry and MeasurementStatistics and ProbabilityWord Problems and Quantitative Comparisons
Personal Finance DecisionsData Analysis in CareersTravel and Logistics
Time Management TechniquesSmart Guessing and EliminationCareful Reading and Rechecking
Arithmetic and Numbe...Algebraic Expression...Data InterpretationGeometry and Measure...Statistics and Proba...Word Problems and Qu...Personal Finance Dec...Data Analysis in Car...Travel and LogisticsTime Management Tech...Smart Guessing and E...Careful Reading and ...
Basic Concepts

Arithmetic and Number Properties

Understanding Numbers

Arithmetic is the foundation of all math concepts. It includes operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as understanding types of numbers such as integers, fractions, and decimals.

Key Properties

  • Commutative Property: \( a + b = b + a \)
  • Associative Property: \( (a + b) + c = a + (b + c) \)
  • Distributive Property: \( a(b + c) = ab + ac \)

Divisibility and Factors

Knowing how numbers break down into factors and multiples is crucial for many GRE problems. Prime numbers, least common multiples (LCM), and greatest common divisors (GCD) are especially important.

Why It Matters

Mastery of arithmetic helps you solve everything from basic calculation questions to more complex quantitative comparisons.

Tips

  • Memorize multiplication tables up to 12.
  • Practice quick mental math to save time on the test.

Examples

  • Calculate \( 15 \times 8 \).

  • Find the greatest common divisor of 18 and 24.

In a Nutshell

Arithmetic covers the basics of numbers and operations, forming the building blocks for all quantitative reasoning.

Key Terms

Integer
A whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero.
Prime Number
A number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself.
Least Common Multiple (LCM)
The smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers.
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Algebraic Expressions and Equations