Written ByRituparna Nath Content Writer at Study Abroad Exams
GMAT data sufficiency comprise 15 questions which are two-fifths of the total 31 GMAT quant questions. The GMAT Data Sufficiency questions consist of a problem statement followed by two factual statements. Each GMAT Data Sufficiency problem consists of two statements (1) and (2) and five different sets of GMAT data sufficiency options:
- Statement (1) ALONE is sufficient, but statement (2) alone is not sufficient.
- Statement (2) ALONE is sufficient, but statement (1) alone is not sufficient.
- BOTH statements TOGETHER are sufficient, but NEITHER statement ALONE is sufficient.
- EACH statement ALONE is sufficient.
- Statements (1) and (2) TOGETHER are NOT sufficient.
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Data sufficiency assesses candidates’ critical thinking and hypervigilance. An abstract problem-solving question is mainly given and most of the difficulty comes from obtuse or clever wording, candidates usually miss it.
GMAT Data Sufficiency Topics
There is a wide range of topics that are covered in GMAT Data Sufficiency and candidates are allowed several GMAT DS options. The below-mentioned table summarizes the topics covered in GMAT Syllabus that come under data sufficiency:
| Arithmetic | Algebra | Geometry |
|---|---|---|
| Multiples and Factors | Monomials, polynomials | Triangle |
| Number Properties | Functions | Lines and angles |
| Fractions | Exponents | Quadrilaterals |
| Decimals | Quadratic equations | Circles |
| Percentage | Inequalities and basic statistics | Rectangular solids and cylinders |
| Power and Roots | GMAT Algebra expressions and equations | Coordinate geometry |
| Average | Permutation and combination | - |
| Probability | Arithmetic and geometric progressions | - |
| Set Theory | - | - |
| Mixtures and allegations | - | - |
| Ratio and proportion | - | - |
| Descriptive Statistics | - | - |
| Pipes, cisterns, and work time | - | - |
| Speed, time, distance | - | - |
| Simple and Compounded Interest | - | - |
What is Data Sufficiency Questions Testing?
Data sufficiency questions are usually refined questions for GMAT. Candidates while solving these questions do not actually understand the hints and find the questions complex. Data sufficiency is more constructive and logical questions than the actual GMAT math questions.
GMAT data sufficiency options particularly test the followings:
- Who is highly critical and always questioning given information?
- Who leverages every little piece of information to make the best decision possible?
- Who can recognize the “con” and select a correct answer that differentiates them from other very smart people?
Steps for Answering GMAT Data Sufficiency Questions
Candidates undergoing confusion associated with solving GMAT Data Sufficiency Problems can undertake the following measures demonstrated in the example:
Is x > 10?
(1) x > 9
(2) x > 11
In all data sufficiency questions, the GMAT DS options appear like:
A) (1) is enough, (2) is not
B) (2) is enough, (1) is not
C) You need both statements
D) (1) is enough alone and (2) is enough alone
E) You can’t answer the question
The following steps will help candidates to solve data sufficiency problems:
- Study the question to know what specifically needs to be solved
- Find the information you need to solve problem
- Take the first statement and see if it is enough to solve problem
- Similarly, take the second statement and notice if the data is enough to solve problem
- Next, study both the statements and notice if the data is enough to solve the problem
The above diagram helps candidates follow a path while evaluating the data sufficiency questions and choosing the correct answer from the GMAT DS options.
GMAT Data Sufficiency Samples
Data sufficiency practice questions with answers and explanations will help candidates in their preparation for the GMAT. Here in the table given below is data sufficiency practice questions for better understanding.
Data Sufficiency Tricks
GMAT Data Sufficiency questions require constant practicing. Thus, data sufficiency tricks are necessary for candidates to undertake appropriate GMAT preparation. It helps to develop a practice of thoroughly understanding and knowing the answer choices. Undertaking repeated practice will help with an easier understanding of GMAT Data sufficiency problems. Below mentioned are some of the GMAT data sufficiency preparation strategies and data sufficiency tricks:
- Be clear while choosing data sufficiency options in GMAT.
- Remember that crucial information is always hidden in the question stem.
- One should determine the type of data sufficiency questions.
- Undertake elimination process to solve GMAT data sufficiency questions reasoning.
- Undertake effective calculation to answer the questions.
- Undertake real numbers to answer the questions in the place of variables in equations.
- Review your answers as effectively as possible. Undertake GMAT arithmetic before the test.
- Plan your study. Candidates can adapt to a GMAT study plan for GMAT Data Sufficiency preparation.
Data Sufficiency Practice Questions
Candidates can undertake GMAT preparation with hardcore GMAT practice papers. There are several data sufficiency options in GMAT. Candidates can undertake several data sufficiency mock tests to develop their skills. Below mentioned are some of the practice papers that can be undertaken by candidates to practice GMAT data sufficiency questions:
*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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