The GMAT Focus Edition consists of three sections, each scored independently and combined into a total score. Unlike earlier versions of the test, you now choose the order in which you take the three sections.
A) The Three Sections
- Quantitative Reasoning — 21 questions, 45 minutes. Tests how well you solve math problems using basic arithmetic and algebra. Questions are a mix of word problems and pure math. All Problem Solving format (no Data Sufficiency). No calculator — all arithmetic is designed to be solvable by hand.
- Verbal Reasoning — 23 questions, 45 minutes. Tests your ability to read and comprehend written material and reason through arguments. Two question types:
- Reading Comprehension (RC) — Assess written statements, understand logical relationships, and draw inferences. You'll identify main and supporting ideas, apply passage knowledge to new contexts, and recognize the logical structure and style of the text.
- Critical Reasoning (CR) — Evaluate short arguments (usually under 100 words). Questions ask which answer strengthens or weakens the argument, identifies a flaw, or supports/damages a conclusion. No specialized subject knowledge required.
- Data Insights — 20 questions, 45 minutes. Tests your ability to assess multiple types of data — graphic, numeric, and verbal — to solve real-world problems. An on-screen calculator is available for this section only. Five question types:
- Data Sufficiency (DS) — Analyze a quantitative or logical problem, recognize which data is relevant, and determine at what point there is enough data to solve it. Questions can be math or non-math.
- Multi-Source Reasoning (MSR) — Examine data from multiple sources (text, tables, or graphics) and answer questions that may require recognizing discrepancies, drawing inferences, or judging data relevance.
- Table Analysis (TA) — Sort and analyze a data table (similar to a spreadsheet) to determine what information is relevant or meets certain conditions.
- Graphics Interpretation (GI) — Interpret information from graphs or graphical images (scatter plots, x/y graphs, bar charts, pie charts, statistical curves) to identify relationships and make inferences.
- Two-Part Analysis (TPA) — Solve complex problems that may be quantitative, verbal, or both. Designed to evaluate trade-offs, solve simultaneous equations, and discern relationships between two entities.
Important: Every question provides all the information you need to answer it correctly. You do not need detailed outside knowledge of the subject areas — including Verbal passages and DI scenarios.
B) Section Order Choice
You select your section order at the start of the test. Common strategies:
- Start with your strongest section to build confidence and bank score early.
- Start with your weakest section when you have the most mental energy.
- Most high-scorers tackle Verbal or DI first, saving Quant for when they are well-warmed-up.
C) Breaks
You receive one optional 10-minute break between sections. Use it — mental fatigue is real at the 90-minute mark. Drink water, stand up, and reset before continuing.
D) Total Test Time
2 hours 15 minutes of testing time (135 minutes), plus check-in, tutorial, and break time. Plan for approximately 3 hours at the test center.
E) Pacing per Question
- Quantitative: ~2 min 8 sec per question
- Verbal: ~1 min 57 sec per question
- Data Insights: ~2 min 15 sec per question
These are averages. Easy questions should take under 90 seconds; hard questions may take 3 minutes. Never spend more than 3 minutes on a single question — cut your losses and move forward.