Written ByRituparna Nath Content Writer at Study Abroad Exams
Algebra is one of the core subjects of Math, and it can be found in the GMAT quant syllabus too. Business schools are always on the lookout for candidates who have a proper aptitude for quant as is required by management programs. The knowledge of GMAT algebra falls under the mandatory requirements when attempting the GMAT quant section. The GMAT algebra questions are hard for certain candidates, and the main reason behind this is there not have enough knowledge about the GMAT algebra concepts. This article will provide a detailed overview of GMAT algebra.
GMAT Algebra Basics
Algebraic terms are vital for further understanding of the GMAT algebra concepts and a few important terms of GMAT algebra basics are:
- Variables: In GMAT algebra, they are the symbols that stand for numbers.
- Constants: In GMAT algebra, they are the values that are stagnant in certain problems.
- Terms: When constant and variable are singular or clubbed together, they form terms according to GMAT algebra concepts.
- Degree: Degree is the power of a variable in GMAT algebra.
- Algebraic expression: This is the assortment of terms mingled together by the involvement of addition or deduction and forms GMAT algebra formulas like (x + 2), (x – 3c), and (2x –3y).
- Coefficient: It is a number or symbol that caters as a measure of a property or characteristic.
Out of all the GMAT quant topics, GMAT algebra questions comprise 16.3% frequency. GMAT algebra concepts are tested based on pure algebra which comprises the following:
Types of Expressions in GMAT Algebra
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Monomial: Contains only one term like 3x;
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Polynomial: It contains more than one term like a2 – b2;
- Binomial: It is like polynomial and contains two terms like a+b or 3a+6;
GMAT Algebra Concepts
The GMAT algebra practice problems consist of all the concepts laid down underneath. Candidates finding it difficult to understand the GMAT algebra formulas or concepts should thoroughly understand the following breakdown first:
| GMAT Algebra Concepts | Description | Breakdown of Concepts |
|---|---|---|
| Inequalities | Inequalities work with non-equal comparisons between 2 numbers or other mathematical concepts | Mathematical Operations with Inequalities |
| Functioning with ranges of numbers | ||
| Transitive Property | ||
| Addition of Like Qualities | ||
| Functions | Functions are exchanged between two sets of numbers; every single number that one puts into the formula counters with one possible answer. A function is represented by a letter along with the variable in the expression. | Domain of function |
| Range of function | ||
| Quadratic Equations | The quadratic equation is a complex format of the algebraic equation that appears like ax2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants (real numbers) and a ≠ 0, and x is a variable that has to be dealt with. | Factoring Method of Solving Quadratic Equations |
| Determining Solutions for the Difference of Perfect Squares | ||
| Root | ||
| Quadratic Formula for Solving Quadratic Equations | ||
| Linear Equations | A linear equation comprises of an unknown variable and a no exponent more than 1 | Linear Equations with two unknown |
| Number of Solutions |
Important GMAT Algebra Formulas
Every single GMAT algebra formulas are important, but the following three should be remembered more than anything else:
- The difference in Two Squares: a2–b2=(a−b)(a+b)
- Squaring a Binomial: (a±b)2=a2±2ab+b2
- The Discriminant: D=b2–4ac
GMAT Algebraic Equations
Among the GMAT algebra concepts, the algebraic equation is a very common and crucial one. In GMAT algebra, when the algebraic expression is equivalent to a constant/another expression then the end result is an equation.
Remember, along with remembering all the GMAT algebra formulas, the candidates, especially the ones who are facing issues should rigorously practice the GMAT algebra practice problems.
GMAT Algebra Tips
To score high in the GMAT quant section, adopting a systematic GMAT algebra strategy is necessary. Here are a few GMAT preparation tips for algebra that will be helpful:
Plugin the Numbers
For complex algebraic expressions, pick a simple number while solving the GMAT algebra questions. This will ensure speedy results.
Understand the GMAT Algebra Formulas
Before learning the shortcuts, learn the theorems and understand their explanations. Also, after learning the GMAT algebra formula, recall those daily. Remember, solving algebraic problems without applying the formula is impossible.
Devote Yourself in the Easy GMAT Algebra Questions
20% of the questions of GMAT quant can be solved with the proper use of the GMAT algebra formulas. So, do not give all your time to practice the complex questions. Practice easy questions with equal importance. For instance,e you can devote one day to GMAT algebra word problems, the next day to linear equations.
Practice Daily
Fix 3-4 hours daily to practice algebra. Take help from GMAT quant practice papers and allow 1.5-2 minutes to yourself to solve the equations of algebra.
You must have heard that practice makes a man perfect and for the GMAT quant section, without practice you may lose your grip from GMAT algebra or other sections. So, don’t compromise with practice to obtain a better score on GMAT.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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