GMAT Syllabus 2024: Section-wise Focus Edition Syllabus

The new GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) Focus Edition exam is a more candidate-friendly version of the traditional GMAT test. The GMAT syllabus, which can be found below as per the latest updated exam format, is split into 3 sections, namely:

  • Quantitative Reasoning (assesses mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities).
  • Verbal Reasoning (evaluates reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills).
  • Data Insights (tests one’s ability to analyze and interpret data in various formats).

In this article, we will discuss each section in detail. By understanding the syllabus of the GMAT Focus Edition exam, you can better prepare for each section and maximize your GMAT score.

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New GMAT Exam Pattern (Focus Edition)

The GMAT Exam - Focus Edition is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. It comprises 3 sections: Quantitative Reasoning; Verbal Reasoning; and Data Insights. There are total 64 questions in this version.

Here's is an overview of the GMAT Focus Edition sections:

Category

Duration

Number of Questions

Type of Content

Format

Score Range

Quantitative Reasoning

45 minutes

21 problem-solving

Arithmetic; Algebra

Multiple Choice

60-90

Verbal Reasoning

45 minutes

23

Critical Reasoning; Reading Comprehension

Multiple Choice

60-90

Data Insights

45 minutes

23

Multi-Source Reasoning; Table Analysis; Graphics Interpretation; Two-Part Analysis; Data Sufficiency

Like Integrated Reasoning

60-90

The total score you get on the GMAT Focus Edition is determined by your performance on all three sections of the test. The maximum score that can be attained on the GMAT exam is 805.

To learn everything about new GMAT modifications, read our dedicated article on the new GMAT format

GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus

The official GMAC website offers the GMAT syllabus in broad categories. As with any important examination, a candidate must be thoroughly familiar with the exam syllabus before beginning preparation for the exam. So, without further ado, let us closely examine the new GMAT Focus Edition syllabus.

GMAT Focus Verbal Reasoning Syllabus

The GMAT Verbal Reasoning section assesses your skills in:

  • Reading written material,
  • Comprehending written material, and
  • Evaluating arguments.

There are a total of 23 questions in this section and you get 45 minutes to answer the same. Types of questions in this section are: Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.

GMAT Focus Reading Comprehension Syllabus

This section measures your ability to comprehend words and statements. Mainly, the skills tested include:

  • Comprehending logical structure
  • Recognizing supporting idea
  • Understanding application
  • Identifying main idea
  • Drawing inferences
  • Analysing style

Categorization of GMAT Reading Comprehension Questions

Let's break down GMAT Reading Comprehension question types for a clearer understanding:

Question Types

Description/Key Characteristics

Main Idea Questions

- One of the most common types of questions in the RC section.

- You’ll find at least one main idea question in all the passages.

- Identify the answer choice that matches the scope of the entire passage.

- Think of the big picture and not get distracted by the individual elements.

- Put all the pieces together and try to figure out what is the purpose of the passage.

Supporting Idea / Substantial Idea Questions

- Known as detail questions, they zoom in on single sentences or parts in the passage.

- Trickier than main idea questions.

- Require a thorough reading; may ask about facts or specific arguments that are explicitly cited in the passage.

- To answer, understanding the main idea and how details support it is crucial.

Inference / Assumption Questions

- More advanced than the two mentioned above.

- Require more critical thinking abilities.

- Include arguments and ideas that are implied by the author but not mentioned explicitly in the passage.

- To answer, think logically and make calculated assumptions about the author’s intentions.

- Read between the lines to comprehend implied, not explicitly stated, meanings.

Out of Framework / Out of Context

- Not related to the passage directly.

- These questions ask you to absorb the information present in the passage and apply it in an out of context situation.

- May ask you about the author’s views regarding a matter that is completely unrelated to the passage.

- Take the similar approach as with the inference type question.

- Primarily test your understanding of the main idea of the passage and your ability to apply it elsewhere; so take a much farther logical leap than before while answering.

Coherent Logical Structure

- Talk about the overall structure of the passage.

- Asks what the author is accomplishing by writing a passage in a particular way.

- For example, the question might have the following wording, “Does the passage refute an idea?”, or “Is the author contrasting two ideas?”.

- Tests your ability to understand the structural flow of the passage.

- Sometimes, there can also be a question that asks for a suitable title for the passage.

Application Questions

- Applying passage information to new situations.

- Evaluate the passage structure, understanding specific elements' roles.

- May involve identifying why the author includes certain elements.

Style and Tone Questions

- Concentrate on determining the perspective or tone of mentioned individuals.

- Often inquire about agreement, disagreement, attitude, or beliefs of someone in the passage.

- You may be asked to identify the ideas in the passage and the tone used by the passage to express those ideas (generally, using a single word or a phrase. For example, critical, enthusiastic, optimistic, objective, etc. are the frequent choices).

Crucial Components of Passage in GMAT Reading Comprehension

GMAT Reading Comprehension passages, typically around 350 words, assess your ability to interpret, infer, and identify logical relationships. While engaging with the passage, it is important to avoid straying from the given content. Ensure you stay focused on the passage's topic and refrain from incorporating your personal ideas. Bringing external worldly knowledge into the interpretation may lead to divergence from the actual passage content.

Key components to consider:

  • Topic: What is the main subject of the passage?
  • Scope: Which specific aspect of the topic does the passage concentrate on?
  • Purpose: Why did the author write the passage?
  • What notes would you jot down on your note board?
How to Prepare for GMAT Reading Comprehension Section?

Your GMAT Verbal Ability score significantly depends on Reading Comprehension. Here are foolproof strategies to structure and time your GMAT Reading Comprehension preparation:

  1. Skim the Passage [1 minute]:
  2. - Skimming entails a quick read of the entire passage to grasp its general idea.

    - Different from scanning, which seeks specific facts, skimming focuses on understanding the tone and overall concept.

  3. Read the Questions [1 minute]:
  4. - After skimming, glance at related questions, identifying their types.

    - Mark questions based on types and approach each accordingly, considering the various question types mentioned above.

  5. Read the Passage in Detail [2 minutes]:
  6. - Refer back to the passage, reading it thoroughly for tiny details and specific facts.

    - Stay focused, mindful of the timed nature of the GMAT; prioritize information relevant to the questions.

  7. Answer Questions [1 minute]:
  8. - Start with main idea questions first, requiring less mental effort.

    - Progress to supporting idea questions, addressing explicit facts.

    - Proceed in the suggested order for effectiveness, then choose your preferred order.

  9. Identify Outliers [0.25 minutes]:
  10. - Outliers are answer choices not explicitly stated but align with the question.

    - Sharp attention and a strong grasp of the passage's main idea help identify outliers.

    - Leverage these outliers with solid reasoning to your advantage.

    In addition to these preparation tips, you should definitely check out our unique Strategies to Improve Score in GMAT Reading Comprehension to enhance your performance.

GMAT Focus Critical Reasoning Syllabus

In this section, a candidate has to perform an analysis, based on the given argument and mark the right answer. You will be required to extract the relevant data that would either back or oppose the given argument and select the best possible option.

How to Prepare for GMAT Critical Reasoning

Here is an effective guide on preparing for Critical Reasoning on the GMAT:

  • Follow the "map that leads to you": Familiarize yourself with the topic of critical reasoning. GMAT critical reasoning questions are intentionally analytical and confusing, often filled with jargon and sentences in harmony with themselves rather than being helpful to the student. Avoid excessive reading and focus on decoding controversial theories to identify evidentiary clues crucial for solving the question.
  • Believe that slow and steady wins the race: Being ambitious means being slow and steady towards your ambition. Speed reading can only help you get so far. For every noteworthy entrance examination in the world, speed reading will only exhibit your reading ability. You need to interpret what's going on in the question. This will help you understand the information provided from the data that needs to be assumed.
  • Break down the questions sentence-wise: This will help you mindfully assess the situation presented in the question. As much as this question is subjective to an individual candidate’s own prepping strategy, this is also a quandary that states that you need to be smart, rather than being hard on yourself.
  • Get a "reason" to start over new: Avoid wishy-washiness in critical reasoning questions. Align the question with your analytical reasoning capabilities and draw necessary conclusions. Identify both dominant and weak parts of the sentence, practicing the technique of gathering information based on the contextual meaning of the question.
  • Learning reasoning helps you examine the dense usage of written content: Explore historical, geographical, and social themes within the paragraph. This will help assume or predict solutions for given questions.
  • Steer ahead of conventional reading practices: Don’t just read, understand, summarize and formulate a derived context with related comments. It is all about throwing yourself open to challenges and successfully testing your power to extract the correct meaning from complex written information. This is also the "main idea" behind the birth of the critical reasoning (CR) questions.

GMAT Focus Quant Syllabus

The Quantitative Reasoning section in the GMAT Exam – Focus Edition contains 21 Problem-Solving questions. This section:

  • evaluates your basic knowledge in algebra and arithmetic.
  • demands logical and analytical thinking.
  • does not permit the use of calculators.

Key requirement to excel in this section: Arithmetic and elementary algebra.

You get 45 minutes to solve the Quant section of the GMAT Focus Edition.

How to Prepare for GMAT Quant Syllabus?

The GMAT Quant Focus Edition demands a strategic approach and dedicated effort. To optimize your preparation, follow these essential steps:

  1. Familiarize Yourself with GMAT Quant Format:
    • The GMAT Quant Focus Edition comprises 21 Problem-Solving questions, allowing 45 minutes for completion. The syllabus encompasses arithmetic and algebra.
    • Common topics include percentages, ratios, rate problems, algebraic expressions, combinatorics, linear and quadratic equations, and statistical concepts.
    • Study each topic thoroughly, understand underlying concepts, and assess your strengths and weaknesses.
  2. Develop a Comprehensive Study Plan:
    • Tailor a realistic study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses, ensuring a balanced approach.
    • Allocate dedicated time to each topic, becoming an expert before moving on.
    • Consistent and focused study sessions are key to mastering the diverse content of the GMAT Quant syllabus.
  3. Utilize Official GMAT Materials:
    • Leverage official GMAT preparation materials like the GMAT Official Guide and GMATPrep software, available on com.
    • Practice with real GMAT questions to familiarize yourself with the exam's structure and question types.
  4. Strengthen Fundamental Concepts:
    • Study core principles of arithmetic and algebra to build a strong foundation.
    • Master basic skills for solving questions of fractions, decimals, percentages, and setting up equations.
  5. Emphasize Problem-Solving Techniques:
    • Develop effective problem-solving techniques.
    • Practice solving problems under timed conditions to enhance speed and accuracy.
  6. Review Mistakes Regularly:
    • Analyze and understand the reasoning behind incorrect answers to improve.
    • Identify patterns in errors and refine your problem-solving approach.
  7. Take Mock Tests:
    • Simulate real exam conditions with full-length GMAT practice tests.
    • Assess performance, identify weak areas, and refine strategies.
  8. Focus on Time Management:
    • Practice effective time management during study sessions to complete the section within the allotted time on exam day.
  9. Explore Additional Resources:
    • Supplement learning with online courses, tutoring, and GMAT forums for diverse perspectives.
  10. Prepare with Our Expert GMAT Faculty:
    • Enroll in our comprehensive GMAT Focus Edition coaching classes structured to create a conducive learning atmosphere. Our experienced mentors provide valuable support, helping you ace your GMAT preparation.

    Remember that the GMAT Focus Edition Quant section does not feature data sufficiency problems. While the content may have changed, your learning approach should stay constant. So, emphasis on studying math topics since they apply to a variety of question types, particularly in the Data Insights section of the new GMAT Focus exam.

GMAT Focus Data Insights Syllabus

The GMAT Data Insights section evaluates how well you can analyze data to apply it to real-world business scenarios. It also assesses your digital and data literacy. Below is a quick overview:

Total Number of Questions

20

Question Types

  • Data Sufficiency
  • Multi-Source Reasoning
  • Table Anlaysis
  • Graphics Interpretation
  • Two-part Analysis

Question formats

Graphics, tables, text passages, numeric information.

Skills required

Math, data analysis, verbal reasoning

Calculator Permitted

Yes (on-screen calculator is allowed)

Score Range

60-90

Allotted Time

45 minutes

Types of Questions in GMAT Data Insights Section

In the GMAT Data Insights section, a mix of questions will assess your analytical abilities. These questions test your proficiency in interpreting different types of information and making informed decisions. Let us break down the key question types:

  1. Data Sufficiency (4-8 Questions)
    • Evaluates the ability to dissect and analyze quantitative problems.
    • Assesses the capability for identifying data relevance.
    • Determines skill in identifying the point where there is sufficient data to solve the problem.
  2. Multi-Source Reasoning (2-4 Questions)
    • Measures one’s aptitude in examining various data sources, like text passages and tables.
    • Checks the ability to analyze each data source to answer multiple questions.
    • Assesses whether one can draw inferences and evaluate data relevance.
  3. Table Analysis (2-4 Questions)
    • Gauges the ability to sort and analyze tabular data.
    • Determines proficiency in identifying relevant information or identifying specific conditions.
  4. Graphics Interpretation (4-6 Questions)
    • Assess the capability to interpret information presented in graphical formats.
    • May require discerning relationships and making inferences based on graphical data.
  5. Two-Part Analysis (2-4 Questions)
    • Measures problem-solving skills in handling complex scenarios.
    • Tests the ability to evaluate trade-offs, identify relationships between two entities, and solve simultaneous equations.

How to Prepare for Data Insights?

To master Data Insights, keep these key aspects in mind:

  • Understanding Data Insights Question Types
  • Prepare for the GMAT Focus Data Insights section by understanding its unique question types. This section introduces five distinct categories: Data Sufficiency, Graphics Interpretation, Table Analysis, Two-Part Analysis, and Multi-source Reasoning. The key is to develop your ability to process information effectively.

  • Mastering Real-World Data Processing Skills
  • In Data Insights, you are tasked with extracting insights from potentially imperfect data displays. This section simulates real-world scenarios. Learn to pay attention to the language used in questions and texts.

  • Build Strategic Study Approach
  • Data Insights requires a varied skill set, so you would need to adopt a strategic approach to your preparation. While delving into Quant topics like algebra, probability, and statistics, it also incorporates a verbal component like that of critical reasoning. Strengthen your Quant skills, especially statistics, and enhance critical reasoning and reading comprehension skills. From here, gradually integrate Data Insights questions from the newer official guides in your preparation. This ensures a methodical buildup without prematurely exhausting official question resources.

  • Utilize Practice Tests for Holistic Assessment
  • Strengthen understanding and confidence through practice and strategic review. Regular practice tests offer a holistic performance assessment, aligning with your overall strategy. Dive into detailed analytics from mock/practice tests to pinpoint weak areas, enabling effective focus and refinement.

  • Mastering Time in Data Insights
  • With an average of two minutes and 15 seconds per question, effective time management is crucial. While the new GMAT allows changes to three answers and review flexibility, resist spending excessive time on a single question. While you prepare, allocate time wisely to mitigate the time pressure in the Data Insights section.

    In addition to these tips, you can learn to tackle each question type on the GMAT Focus Edition’s Data Insights section with our comprehensive article on Tips to Prepare for GMAT Data Insights.

    Also Read: Try Data Insights Sample Questions

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Conclusion

Remember, knowledge is power, and familiarity with the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus is your key to success on the exam. By understanding the content and format of the test, you can effectively prepare and strategize for each section. Along with preparing for the examination, it is also important to prepare for the GMAT Video Interview. This will help build your confidence, while strengthening your verbal skills manifold. In conclusion, make sure to utilize all the resources available to you and approach the GMAT Focus Edition with confidence and determination. Good luck!

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