A Guide to the GRE/Math

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Introduction to GRE Math[edit | edit source]

The GRE tests only basic math universal to high school curricula. The exam generally does not test any math beyond high school geometry; there is no trigonometry or calculus on the test. Its math can be broken into essentially four categories.

Math Operations[edit | edit source]

The GRE frequently tests knowledge of these mathematical concepts such as the rules of radicals, exponents, absolute value, positives, negatives, and inverses.

Algebra[edit | edit source]

Algebra refers to the use of variables and equations to solve problems, such as by substituting a letter-value for an unknown. The GRE heavily tests algebra, particularly in problems involving rates or proportions.

Geometry[edit | edit source]

Geometry refers to the variety of rules used to calculate attributes of lines and shapes. The GRE tests a great deal of geometry, especially triangles, squares and circles.

Data Interpretation[edit | edit source]

Every GRE math section has a section of questions based on a chart, designed to test data interpretation skills. Many of the other questions test statistical concepts such as averages and standard deviation.