Complete Guide to the GMAT Quant Section (Updated for 2025)

The GMAT Quantitative section tests your ability to reason mathematically, solve quantitative problems, and interpret graphic data — essential skills for success in an MBA program and beyond. In the latest version of the GMAT exam, the Quant section has been streamlined and modernized, making it more focused and relevant to today’s business environment.

The Quantitative section now contains 21 questions to be completed in 45 minutes — a format designed to assess your foundational arithmetic and algebra skills and how you apply them to problem-solving scenarios. Gone are the geometry and complex statistical concepts; the new structure emphasizes efficiency, logic, and real-world application of mathematical skills.

This section does not require advanced math — instead, it challenges your critical thinking and analytical abilities. You won’t be allowed to use a calculator here, so mental math and strategic thinking are key.

Whether you’re aiming for a top score or trying to improve your weak areas, understanding the format, topics, and types of questions you’ll face in the new GMAT Quant section is the first step toward building a solid prep plan.

GMAT Quantitative Section Format

The GMAT Quantitative section, in its new format under the GMAT Focus Edition, is concise, efficient, and designed to evaluate your ability to solve problems using fundamental math skills and logical reasoning.

Here’s a quick overview of the format:

Key Features:

• Only one question type: Unlike the old format which included both Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency, the new Quant section focuses only on Problem Solving questions. These questions test your ability to use logic and math skills to find solutions.
• Adaptive testing: The test is section-adaptive — your performance in one section may influence the difficulty of questions in subsequent sections.
• No calculator: You won’t be allowed to use a calculator, so brush up on your mental math, estimation techniques, and speed arithmetic.
• Balanced skill assessment: The section does not require calculus or trigonometry — the emphasis is on arithmetic, algebra, and number properties, tested in business-relevant ways.

This revised format aligns better with real-world business problem-solving and MBA coursework, where logical thinking is often more important than complex computations.

Topics Covered in the GMAT Quantitative Section

The GMAT Quant section is not just about math formulas—it’s about how you apply quantitative reasoning to solve real-world problems efficiently and accurately. The good news? The math is not advanced—you’re tested primarily on high school-level concepts.

Here are the major topic areas you need to master:

1. Arithmetic

This forms the foundation of the GMAT Quant section. Expect questions on:

• Properties of integers (even/odd, prime numbers, divisibility)
• Fractions, decimals, percentages
• Ratios and proportions
• Powers and roots
• Absolute values
• Number lines and estimation

2. Algebra

Algebra is at the core of many Quant problems. Topics include:

• Linear and quadratic equations
• Inequalities
• Expressions and exponents
• Simplifying algebraic expressions
• Word problems translated into equations
• Solving for unknowns

3. Word Problems

These assess your ability to model situations mathematically and logically. You’ll see questions involving:

• Work and rate problems
• Mixtures and concentration
• Speed, time, and distance
• Profit, interest, and investment
• Age and population-based problems

4. Number Properties

These are critical for many GMAT questions and test your understanding of:

• Factors and multiples
• Prime factorization
• Least common multiple (LCM) and greatest common divisor (GCD)
• Remainders and divisibility rules
• Odd/even and positive/negative number behavior

What’s No Longer Tested?

• Data Sufficiency is now part of the Data Insights section, not Quant.
• Geometry-heavy problems are rarely seen.
• Complex graphs or statistical interpretation is now shifted to the Data Insights section.

Sample GMAT Quantitative Questions with Solutions

1. Arithmetic – Percentages

Question:
A store increases the price of a shirt by 25%, and then later offers a 20% discount on the new price. What is the overall percentage change in the price of the shirt?

Solution:
Let original price = ₹100
After 25% increase → ₹100 + ₹25 = ₹125
Now, 20% discount on ₹125 → 0.20 × 125 = ₹25
Discounted price = ₹125 – ₹25 = ₹100

Overall percentage change = ₹100 – ₹100 = 0%

✅ Answer: 0% change

2. Arithmetic – Ratios and Proportions

Question:
The ratio of apples to oranges in a basket is 3:4. If there are 36 oranges, how many apples are there?

Solution:
Let apples = 3x, oranges = 4x
Given: 4x = 36 → x = 9
Apples = 3x = 3 × 9 = 27

✅ Answer: 27 apples

3. Algebra – Linear Equations

Question:
If 2x – 3 = 7, what is the value of x?

Solution:
2x – 3 = 7
→ 2x = 7 + 3 = 10
→ x = 10 / 2 = 5

✅ Answer: x = 5

4. Algebra – Quadratic Equations

Question:
If x² – 5x + 6 = 0, what are the values of x?

Solution:
Factor the equation:
x² – 5x + 6 = (x – 2)(x – 3) = 0
So, x = 2 or x = 3

✅ Answer: x = 2 or x = 3

5. Word Problems – Speed, Time & Distance

Question:
A train travels 120 km in 2 hours. How long will it take to travel 300 km at the same speed?

Solution:
Speed = 120 km / 2 hr = 60 km/hr
Time = 300 km ÷ 60 km/hr = 5 hours

✅ Answer: 5 hours

6. Word Problems – Work and Time

Question:
A can complete a task in 10 days. B can do the same in 15 days. How long will it take both to finish the task together?

Solution:
A’s work/day = 1/10, B’s work/day = 1/15
Combined work/day = 1/10 + 1/15 = (3 + 2)/30 = 5/30 = 1/6

Time = 6 days

✅ Answer: 6 days

7. Numbers – Divisibility

Question:
What is the smallest positive integer divisible by both 6 and 8?

Solution:
LCM of 6 and 8 = 24

✅ Answer: 24

8. Numbers – Prime Factorization

Question:
What is the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 36 and 48?

Solution:
36 = 2² × 3²
48 = 2⁴ × 3
GCD = 2² × 3 = 12

✅ Answer: 12

How the Quant Section Is Scored on the GMAT

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GMAT is scored on a scale of 60 to 90, in 1-point increments. Your Quant score contributes to your overall GMAT Total Score, which ranges from 205 to 805 in 10-point increments.

Here’s how it works:

What Determines Your GMAT Quant Score?

1. Number of Correct Answers
   The more questions you get right, the better your score. But it’s not just about quantity.
2. Difficulty Level of Questions
   The GMAT uses an adaptive testing algorithm, meaning the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on your performance. Getting harder questions right boosts your score more than getting easy ones right.
3. Consistency
   A strong performance throughout the section—especially avoiding careless mistakes on medium or easy questions—is key.
4. Unanswered Questions
   If you run out of time and leave questions blank, it will significantly lower your score. Always aim to finish the section.

Timing Breakdown

• Total Questions: 21
• Time Allotted: 45 minutes
• Average Time per Question: ~2 minutes

Efficient time management is critical. It’s a good idea to check your progress every 7 questions to stay on track.

How Does the Quant Score Affect Your Total Score?

Your Quant score is combined with your Verbal and Data Insights scores to calculate the Total GMAT Score (205–805). The Quant section is important, especially for candidates applying to quant-heavy MBA programs like finance, consulting, or tech.

Here’s a rough benchmark:

(Note: These percentiles are based on the latest GMAT Focus Edition score concordance tables.)

Tips to Improve Your GMAT Quant Score

The GMAT Quantitative section can feel intimidating, especially if math isn’t your strong suit—but the good news is, it’s absolutely learnable. Here are some proven strategies to boost your GMAT Quant score:

1. Master the Fundamentals First

• Brush up on arithmetic, algebra, and number properties.
• Make sure you’re comfortable with concepts like exponents, inequalities, ratios, percentages, and word problems.
• GMAT math is high-school level—but it tests how you think, not just what you know.

2. Focus on Problem Solving

• The new GMAT Quant section consists only of Problem-Solving questions—no more Data Sufficiency here.
• These questions require you to apply logic, spot patterns, and eliminate options quickly.
• Practice identifying traps in answer choices.

3. Use Official GMAT Materials

• The Official Guide and GMATPrep software from GMAC are the most accurate representations of the actual exam.
• Prioritize them for practice over third-party resources.

4. Track and Analyze Your Mistakes

• Maintain an error log with types of mistakes—conceptual, calculation, or timing-related.
• This will help you identify weak areas and fix them systematically.

5. Time Management is Key

• Aim for ~2 minutes per question.
• Don’t get stuck—if a question takes too long, guess strategically and move on.

6. Practice Mental Math and Estimation

• GMAT rewards smart, efficient thinking.
• Practice estimating answers and using logical reasoning instead of long calculations.

7. Simulate Test Conditions

• Practice using a timer and do full Quant sections in one sitting.
• Mimic the test-day environment to build stamina and focus.

Bonus: Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t rely on shortcuts before learning the concepts.
• Don’t skip word problems—they appear often and test real-world application.
• Don’t leave questions unanswered. Always guess if you’re running out of time.

Want an extra boost? Consider solving 5 Quant questions every day from past tests and revisiting 1-2 old errors. This light, consistent practice adds up fast.

How to Build a GMAT Quant Study Plan (Based on the New GMAT)

The GMAT Quantitative section has evolved — no Geometry, no Data Sufficiency. It’s now laser-focused on Arithmetic, Algebra, Word Problems, and Number Properties — all tested through Problem-Solving questions only.

Here’s a practical step-by-step study plan designed specifically for the new GMAT Quant structure.

Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Test

Start by taking an official GMAT Focus mock test to assess your current Quant skills.

This will help you:

• Identify weak areas (Algebra, Word Problems, etc.)
• Set a realistic improvement goal
• Estimate how much time you need to prepare

Tip: Use GMAT Official Starter Kit or SIGma-X Free GMAT Mock.

Step 2: Set a Target Quant Score

The GMAT Quantitative section is scored from 60 to 90, in 1-point increments.

Example target benchmarks:

• For a 675+ total score, aim for Q77 to Q83
• For a 705+ score, aim for Q83+

Step 3: Break Down the Quant Topics (New GMAT Focus Edition)

Here are the key areas covered:

No Geometry.
No Data Sufficiency.

Step 4: Week-by-Week Quant Study Plan

Step 5: Use the Right Resources for the New GMAT

Step 6: Build a Review System

Create an error log to track:

• Question type
• Mistake made
• Learning/strategy update

Don’t just review the wrong answers—review the logic behind right answers too.

Step 7: Practice Under Test Conditions

In the final 2–3 weeks:

• Take at least 3 full Quant sections (21 questions in 45 mins)
• Focus on pacing (target ~2 minutes per question)
• Practice smart skipping if you’re stuck — there’s no penalty for guessing

Final Tip:

The new Quant section is about reasoning, not memorization. It tests your core math logic under time pressure. So focus on mastering:

• Mental math
• Translating word problems to equations
• Strategic guessing when needed

Final Thoughts

The GMAT Quantitative section in the new format is more focused, efficient, and aligned with real-world analytical thinking. With the removal of Geometry and Data Sufficiency, you can now channel your energy into mastering Problem Solving, which dominates the Quant section. But don’t let the shorter format fool you — the level of difficulty has not gone down.

To ace this section, you’ll need a solid understanding of core arithmetic and algebra concepts, excellent number sense, and most importantly, strong logic-based problem-solving skills under time pressure. Start with conceptual clarity, build up your speed and accuracy with high-quality questions, and evaluate your progress using full-length mocks that reflect the new GMAT structure.

Whether you’re targeting a top B-school or just looking to boost your overall GMAT score, a strong Quant performance can be a game-changer. With the right resources, a well-structured plan, and consistent practice, scoring Q80+ is well within your reach.

FAQs on GMAT Quantitative Section

1. What is the GMAT Quant section like in the new format?
The GMAT Quantitative section in the new format consists of 21 Problem Solving questions to be answered in 45 minutes. It tests your arithmetic and algebra skills, focusing on logical reasoning and analytical thinking without any Geometry or Data Sufficiency questions.

2. Has the difficulty level of the GMAT Quant section changed in the new format?
No, the difficulty level remains similar to the previous format. However, the questions are more concise, and you’ll need to be efficient in solving them within the shorter time frame.

3. Is Geometry tested in the new GMAT Quant section?
No, Geometry has been removed from the Quantitative section in the new GMAT. The focus is now entirely on arithmetic and algebra-based Problem Solving questions.

4. Are Data Sufficiency questions part of the new Quant section?
No, Data Sufficiency has been moved to the Data Insights section. The Quant section only includes Problem Solving questions now.

5. How is the GMAT Quant section scored?
The Quantitative section contributes to your overall GMAT score, which ranges from 205 to 805 in 10-point increments. While individual section scores are not shown separately in the final score, your Quant performance plays a key role in your overall score.

6. What is considered a good score in GMAT Quant?
A Q47–Q51 score is generally considered strong. For highly competitive programs, aiming for Q49+ is advisable, especially if you’re from a non-quant background or targeting a STEM-heavy program.

7. How can I improve my score in the GMAT Quant section?
Focus on mastering foundational math concepts, solve a variety of problem types, and regularly practice with timed quizzes and mock tests. Also, review errors to strengthen weak areas.

8. Do I need a calculator for the Quant section?
No, a calculator is not provided for the Quant section. You’re expected to perform calculations mentally or on a scratchpad.

9. Can I skip questions in the GMAT Quant section?
You must answer one question to move to the next, and you cannot return to previous questions. Strategic pacing and accuracy are crucial.

10. Are there any shortcuts to solving GMAT Quant problems?
Yes! Learning techniques like number plugging, back-solving, and elimination can help you solve questions more efficiently. But these should supplement—not replace—a strong conceptual understanding.