Quantitative Reasoning: Arithmetic and Algebra
This area covers integers, fractions, percentages, ratios, and solving linear and simple quadratic equations. The GRE rewards flexible, efficient methods over long computation. Building fluency with equation setup and percentage reasoning pays off across the section.
Solve Equations Step by Step
Isolate the variable by undoing operations in reverse order, and simplify before you substitute numbers. For quadratics like x squared - 5x + 6 = 0, factoring into (x - 2)(x - 3) is usually faster than the quadratic formula. Always verify a solution by plugging it back in.
Master Percentages and Ratios
Convert percentages to decimals or fractions to compute quickly, and remember that 'increased by 40%' means multiplying by 1.40. For ratios, reduce to lowest terms and keep track of what each part represents. Breaking a percent into 10% and 5% pieces speeds mental math.