Today’s business scenario is constantly changing, and to outperform competitors, it is essential to make informed real-time decisions. The GMAT exam focuses on evaluating aspiring business school candidates’ ability to make critical decisions based on the available data sets. This section includes multiple types of questions, such as data sufficiency questions, multi-source reasoning questions, table analysis, graphics interpretation, etc.
In this, we have discussed the comprehensive details of the GMAT data insights section, including their question types, how to answer them, and preparation tips
Table of Contents
What is the GMAT Data Insights Section?
The GMAT data insights section assesses the ability of the test takers to analyse and interpret data presented visually, such as graphs, charts, and tables. The data insight section also evaluates their caliber to make informed decisions based on the interpretation.
GMAT Data Insights Section Pattern and Format
- The GMAT Data Insights Section consists of 1 section
- Questions generally covered the topics of reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and correction of sentences.
- Overall, test takers are required to answer 23 questions in 45 minutes.
- On average, test takers must give 3-4 minutes to each question.
| Section | GMAT Data Insights |
|---|---|
| No. of Sections | 1 |
| No. of Questions | 20 |
| Types of Questions | Data Analysis Data Interpretation Relationships between graphics, numbers, and language |
| Average Time Per Question | 1-2 Minutes |
| Total Time Duration | 45 Minutes |
Difficulty Level of GMAT Insights Section
- Similar to the quant and verbal reasoning sections, the GMAT data insights are also score-adaptive, which means that the difficulty level of the questions adjusts itself depending on the test taker’s overall performance.
- If the test taker has performed well, the difficulty level will be increased.
- If the test taker has performed poorly, the easier questions will be delivered.
What are the Types of GMAT Data Insights Questions?
- The GMAT data insights section comprises the following types of questions.
- Data Sufficiency
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Table Analysis
- Graphics Interpretation
- Two Parts Analysis
- The section is focused on analysing the skills needed for interpreting the data in real-world scenarios.
Data Sufficiency
- Data sufficiency questions focus on the candidate’s ability to apply logical and reasoning skills to real-world problems.
- These problems are presented in the form of word-numerical questions.
- Candidates are given a question and 2 statements.
- They have to decide whether the statements given convey enough data to answer the question.
How to Solve GMAT Data Sufficiency Questions?
- Candidates have to decide whether the problem allows one or a range of values.
- They are not supposed to make assumptions based on geometric figures
Multi-Source Reasoning
- Multi-source reasoning questions are designed to mimic the case study used by various business schools.
- It provides 2-3 text or data charts, data tables, articles, emails, etc, and candidates are required to develop an approach by studying these data sets before concluding the answer.
- Candidates have to recognise discrepancies among different sets of data and draw inferences.
How to Solve GMAT Multi-Source Reasoning Questions?
- Candidates should read the questions carefully and understand what is being asked.
- They should choose the choices that support the discrepancies in the data sets.
Table Analysis
In this type of question, test takers are required to examine the table and text to determine the type of information provided.
How to Solve GMAT Table Analysis Questions?
- Candidates should read the questions carefully to determine the data analysis required.
- They must go through the choices they have to make by reviewing the answers.
- They should also evaluate each answer statement carefully based on the conditions specified.
Graphics Interpretation
- The graphics interpretation involves the test takers interpreting and integrating data, discerning relationships, and making inferences from a set of data.
How to Solve GMAT Table Analysis Questions?
- Test takers must familiarise themselves with the data presented in the graphic.
- They should pay attention to any discrepancies between the units in the graphs and text.
- They are also required to go through the text to verify the graphical data before choosing the right answer.
Two-Part Analysis Questions
- In this, candidates are provided with two right answers for a question, which they have to select from two columns.
- Two-part analysis questions are very similar to GMAT critical reasoning and quant word problems.
- Two-part analysis questions cover a wide range of topics, such as quantitative verbal and their combinations.
How to Solve GMAT Table Analysis Questions?
- Test takers should determine what is being asked of them.
- They need to pay attention to how the question describes the tasks.
- They should review all available answers before making a final choice.
Preparation Tips for GMAT Data Insights Section
To prepare for the GMAT data insights section effectively, candidates should follow the below steps.
- Go through the pattern and format of the data insight section thoroughly
- Find the official GMAT prep resources, which include study plans, mock tests, practice papers, and guides.
- These prep kits are available at the SMART academy, and you can obtain them by signing up for GMAT preparation.
- Regularly attempt mock tests and practice papers and consult with a GMAT trainer to get constructive feedback on your performance.
Key Takeaways by Smart Academy
The GMAT data insights section is very different from the quantitative reasoning part in terms of data analysis and problem-solving abilities. The data insights section focuses on integrating verbal and quantitative reasoning skills to solve problems, whereas the quant section measures the candidate’s basic mathematical skills.
To solve problems in both sections effectively, candidates must have strong computation and reasoning abilities. With the help of test prep courses offered by Smart Academy, test takers can develop the calibre to ace the test with confidence.
FAQs
How many questions are in the GMAT data insights section?
The GMAT data insights section consists of a total of 20 questions in only one section.
How to prepare for the GMAT data insights section effectively?
To prepare for the GMAR data insights section effectively, test takers must understand its pattern and format thoroughly. Apart from this, making a habit of solving data insight questions every day and preparing with the official resources of the GMAT exam can help candidates ace the exam.
What to read for the GRE data insights section?
The best resource for studying for the GMAT data insights section is the official GMAT test kit provided by GMAC. Along with this, SMART Academy also offers a comprehensive prep solution that includes a study plan, mock tests, study guides, etc., to prepare for this section effectively.
What is the time duration of the GMAT data insights section?
The total time duration of the GMAT data insights section is 45 minutes.
What is a good GRE data insights score?
For most of the courses and universities, a score of 49 or higher is generally considered good.
