GRE Quant: Common Mistakes To Avoid

The Quantitative Reasoning section is an important part of the GRE. Since this section involves the use of numbers there is a high possibility for errors when you solve questions. Even a small change in numbers can lead to a huge loss of marks in the exam. Therefore the candidates must be alert while attempting this section. Below is a list of the common mistakes which you may make in the Quant section and how to overcome them.

Common Quant mistakes 

• The Quantitative Reasoning section of GRE will also have few word problems, apart from the usual number problems. While reading such problems some candidates may overlook certain words or phrases which could change the meaning of the entire problem. It is important to pay attention closely to every phrase (Could be, Must be, etc) during the exam. Since you are under timed conditions you should be all the more cautious when you approach such questions. Most of these questions have certain words which don’t add any value to solving the question. We suggest you convert the sentences into simple numbers and math equations to avoid wasting time reading the question multiple times.
• Since the exam has to be completed within a time frame the students have to ensure not to spend too much time on a single question. They will have to make a list of the basic concepts during their GRE preparation (Smallest prime numbers, Formulas related to Geometry, Concepts of real numbers, ratio & percent, etc) which is easy to recall so that during the exam they don’t have any difficulty for the same. Making such lists will help you get familiar with the terms and formulas so that on the test day you don’t have any issues remembering them.
• There should be no room for errors due to assumptions made by the candidate. This would lead to unnecessary loss of marks. Always ensure to write down all the details given in the question before attempting to answer the same. In most cases, the solution for the question can be easily obtained if one reads the question carefully.
• Almost all students end up losing precious marks due to silly mistakes. To avoid these mistakes you should attempt to solve the questions one step at a time. This will also help you to steer clear of missing any important aspects of the problem. Some small mistakes like missing a negative sign or a decimal point may lead to grave errors. Since solving these problems is all about precision it is vital that you pay utmost attention to each step while solving these questions.
• While answering the question, always keep in mind to mention the units which are mentioned in the question. For example, if the question is on distance then the answer should be in meters, centimeters, millimeters, etc. The appropriate metric system has to be used. Similarly in graphs concentrate on the units, scales, and values in the axes. 
• Most of the questions have 4 to 5 answer options and there is usually one choice that appears very simple in comparison to the rest. This option is seldom and rarely the correct choice. It is always recommended that you solve the questions rather than guessing the answer.
• Some questions you come across may deliberately introduce a new quantity that is to be found to trick you while answering the question. For example, You may be solving to find the value of x but the question may have subtly asked for the square root of x or the value of x combined with another value z. The answer options will however have the value of x also present, therefore you must be careful to select the correct answer choice.
• Improving your handwriting. This may seem like a very trivial aspect but it plays a huge role when you are amidst solving many questions and are unable to read or you misread a number you have written. Computation errors also play a role in the loss of marks in the Quant section.

Avoid these simple mistakes to help increase your chances of success during D-day. We are certain if you remember these points you will reach a good GRE quant score on your exam.

Good Luck!

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