What Is on the GMAT? Format, Sections & Question Types Explained

If you’re planning to apply to business school, chances are you’ll come across the GMAT exam.

The test is designed to measure your ability to think critically, analyze data, and solve problems, skills that business schools value.

In Testing Year 2024 alone, over 115,000 candidates took the GMAT globally, including more than 26,000 U.S. residents.

The average score among U.S. test-takers reached 654, the highest on record, showing that competition remains strong.

Still, even high scorers face rejection, highlighting the GMAT exam’s role as just one piece of a highly selective process.

So, what is on the GMAT?

In this guide, we’ll provide the GMAT content breakdown, exactly what the sections of the GMAT exam are, and how you can approach them with confidence.

GMAT Overview: What the Test Is Designed to Measure

As a standardized test, the GMAT offers a fair means of comparing applicants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, making it a preferred choice for business schools worldwide.

For example, Harvard Business School’s acceptance rate is ~11–13%, with a median GMAT score of around 730 (Class of 2026 median: 740).

What Does GMAT Stand For?

GMAT stands for Graduate Management Admission Test.

It’s a standardized, computer-based exam used by business schools to assess a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level management programs like the MBA.

The test evaluates a candidate’s abilities in:

• Quantitative reasoning
• Verbal reasoning
• Integrated reasoning
• Analytical writing

GMAT scores are used by thousands of business schools worldwide to assess the academic potential of applicants.

Who Takes the GMAT and Why?

The GMAT is typically taken by college graduates and young professionals aiming to pursue an MBA or business master’s degree.

Test-takers include recent college graduates, working professionals, career changers, and international applicants.

People choose the GMAT to:

• Stand out in a competitive applicant pool
• Demonstrate readiness for business school
• Qualify for merit-based scholarships
• Improve their chances of getting accepted into globally recognized programs

GMAT vs. GRE (Brief Comparison)

While many business schools accept both the GMAT and GRE, the GMAT exam format is more business-focused, especially in its quantitative and data analysis sections.

On the other hand, the GRE is a more general-purpose test and is also accepted for admission to other graduate programs.

Here’s a quick comparison between GMAT vs. GRE:

Feature	GMAT	GRE
Designed For	Business school applicants	Graduate programs (broad, including business)
Sections	Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, AWA	Quant, Verbal, Analytical Writing
Math Focus	More data sufficiency and problem-solving	More geometry and general math
Verbal Focus	Critical reasoning and sentence correction	Vocabulary-heavy, reading comprehension
Preferred By	Business schools (especially MBA programs)	Accepted by most B-schools, but not always preferred

Many programs now accept either test, but the GMAT remains the preferred option for traditional business school paths, especially for candidates targeting competitive programs or scholarships.

What Are the Sections on the GMAT?

The GMAT is divided into multiple sections, each designed to test specific skills needed for business school success.

From problem-solving and data analysis to critical reading and logical reasoning, the GMAT topics covered reflect real-world challenges you’ll face in graduate management programs.

The GMAT test structure has the following sections:

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
2. Integrated Reasoning (IR)
3. Quantitative Reasoning
4. Verbal Reasoning

Now, let’s explore what’s in each section.

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

The AWA section requires you to write one essay in 30 minutes, analyzing the reasoning behind a given argument. You’ll critique the logical structure, pinpoint assumptions, and assess the quality of the evidence.

Business schools value this as it shows your ability to think critically and communicate coherently in writing.

For this section, scores range from 0–6, in half-point increments, and may be averaged across evaluators.

2. Integrated Reasoning (IR)

This 30-minute section measures your ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats, such as graphs, tables, and text.

It includes four types of questions:

• Multi-source reasoning
• Table analysis
• Graphics interpretation
• Two-part analysis

The IR section assesses how well you synthesize complex data, a skill often used in real business settings. Scores range from 1 to 8 in one-point increments.

3. Quantitative Reasoning

This 62-minute section tests your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

It includes:

• Problem Solving: Traditional math questions with five answer choices.
• Data Sufficiency: Unique to the GMAT, where you determine whether the provided data is sufficient to answer a question.

Topics include arithmetic, algebra, and basic geometry. You don’t need a calculator, and scores range from 6 to 51.

This section is especially important for applicants to quantitatively rigorous MBA programs.

4. Verbal Reasoning

Here, your ability to understand written material, evaluate arguments, and use standard written English is tested through three question types:

• Reading Comprehension: Analyzing long passages and answering questions.
• Critical Reasoning: Evaluating arguments and identifying assumptions or conclusions.
• Sentence Correction: Identifying grammar, usage, and clarity issues in sentences.

This section typically includes 23 to 36 questions (varies by GMAT version), to be completed in 45 to 65 minutes.

For this section, scores also range from 6 to 51. A strong performance here reflects clear communication and logical reasoning, skills highly valued in business schools.

Detailed Breakdown of GMAT Question Types

The classic GMAT exam consists of four main sections, each with distinct question types.

Here’s the detailed breakdown of all the GMAT question types, organized by section:

Quantitative: Problem Solving vs. Data Sufficiency

The Quantitative Reasoning section tests your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving ability.

It typically contains 31 multiple-choice questions in 62 minutes, split between two question types: Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency.

Calculators are not allowed on this section, so you must rely on mental math and scratch work.

The math content is at a high-school level (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics), but the emphasis is on logical reasoning and analytical skills.

1. Problem Solving (PS)

Problem-solving questions are standard five-option multiple-choice math problems.

Each problem-solving question presents a quantitative problem (word problem or equation), and you must calculate or deduce the correct answer from the five choices given.

You’ll need to know basic math, including:

• Arithmetic (fractions, percentages, ratios)
• Algebra (equations, inequalities, exponents)
• Geometry (lines, angles, shapes, area, volume)
• Data analysis (averages, probability, basic stats)

You don’t need advanced math like calculus or trigonometry.

What matters most is your ability to understand the question, think logically, and solve it efficiently, not just memorizing formulas.

GMAT problem solving is about applying your math skills with smart strategies and avoiding trick answers, especially under time pressure.

2. Data Sufficiency (DS)

Data Sufficiency is a unique GMAT question format designed to test your analytical ability more than your ability to do long calculations.

Each question has:

• A question stem (e.g., “What is the value of x?”)
• Two statements labeled (1) and (2)

Your job is not to solve the problem but to decide whether each statement gives enough information to answer the question.

How to approach it:

1. Look at statement (1) alone — is it enough?
2. Look at statement (2) alone — is it enough?
3. If neither works alone, check if both together are enough.

The answer choices are always the same:

• (A) Statement (1) alone is sufficient, but statement (2) alone is not sufficient.
• (B) Statement (2) alone is sufficient, but Statement (1) alone is not sufficient.
• (C) Both statements together are sufficient, but neither statement alone is sufficient.
• (D) Each statement alone is sufficient (i.e., statement (1) by itself is enough, and statement (2) by itself is enough).
• (E) Even together, the two statements are not sufficient to answer the question definitively.

You’ll need the same basic math as in Problem Solving (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data), but the real test is in how well you analyze information and spot what’s truly needed to answer a question, without doing full calculations.

Verbal: Sentence Correction, Critical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension

The Verbal Reasoning section contains 36 multiple-choice questions in 65 minutes (classic GMAT format).

It assesses your ability to read and comprehend written material, reason and evaluate arguments, and correct written English.

There are three question types in this section: Sentence Correction, Critical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension.

1. Sentence Correction (SC)

Sentence Correction questions give you a sentence with part of it underlined and five answer choices. Your job is to pick the version that is grammatically correct, clear, and concise.

Here’s what you need to focus on:

• Grammar Rules: Watch for common issues like subject-verb agreement, verb tense, pronouns, modifiers, and comparisons.
• Clarity and Style: The right answer isn’t just correct—it should be easy to read and free of wordiness or confusion. Simpler, more direct wording is usually better.
• Meaning and Logic: The sentence should make sense. If fixing the grammar creates a confusing or illogical meaning, it’s still wrong.
• Idioms and Word Choice: Be familiar with common expressions and the correct use of prepositions or verbs in context.

SC tests both your English grammar skills and your ability to write clearly, which is key in business communication.

2. Critical Reasoning (CR)

Critical Reasoning questions give you a short argument and ask you to analyze it. Your task is to understand the logic, spot assumptions, and evaluate how new information affects the argument.

Here are the most common critical reasoning question types in the GMAT exam:

• Strengthen or Weaken the argument
• Find the assumption the argument relies on
• Conclude or make an inference
• Explain a discrepancy
• Evaluate a plan or argument
• Analyze roles, especially when boldface text is involved

You need to think logically, understand how arguments are built, and identify what strengthens or weakens them. No outside knowledge is required, just careful reading and clear reasoning.

3. Reading Comprehension (RC)

Reading Comprehension questions are based on short academic-style passages (200–350 words). You’ll answer 3–4 questions per passage.

Topics: Business, science, social studies, humanities, and more. No background knowledge is needed; everything is in the passage.

Question types:

• Main idea or author’s purpose
• Details found in the text
• Inferences from what’s implied
• Logic and structure of the passage
• Author’s tone or style

RC checks your ability to understand complex writing, follow arguments, spot key details, and make logical inferences. Active reading and time management are key to success.

IR: Multi-source reasoning, graphics, tables

The Integrated Reasoning section is a separate section (12 questions, 30 minutes in the classic GMAT) designed to measure your ability to evaluate information from multiple formats and sources.

It features four specialized question types that require you to interpret and synthesize data presented as combinations of text, tables, graphs, or multi-source documents.

The four question formats in Integrated Reasoning are:

1. Multi-Source Reasoning (MSR)

You’re given info across 2–3 tabs (emails, charts, tables, etc.). You switch between tabs to answer questions, which may be multiple-choice or Yes/No.

What it tests:

• How well you combine and compare info from different sources
• Your ability to spot contradictions, make inferences, or find supporting evidence

For this section, being organized and note-taking (jotting down key facts from each tab) can be helpful. You also need to recognize when two sources conflict or complement each other.

2. Table Analysis

You see a sortable table (like a spreadsheet). You can click column headers to sort the data. You’ll usually get 3 statements and must mark each as Yes/No or True/False.

What it tests:

• How well you read, sort, and analyze table data
• Your attention to detail and ability to apply conditions

Table Analysis measures your ability to interpret and analyze tabular data. You must determine what information is relevant or satisfies certain conditions. It also tests your precision, as misreading one cell of the table can lead to a wrong answer.

3. Graphics Interpretation

You get a chart or graph (e.g., bar, line, pie chart) and a few sentences with blanks. Each blank has a drop-down list. Choose the best answers based on the graphic.

What it tests:

• How well you read and understand visuals
• Your ability to spot trends, compare values, and do simple calculations

Graphics Interpretation measures your ability to read and interpret visual data representations.

You need to discern relationships, trends, or proportions from the visual (e.g., identify an increasing trend, compare two categories, calculate a difference or percentage if needed from the graph).

It tests quantitative literacy and attention to detail, as you might need to estimate values from a plotted point or understand what a curve implies.

4. Two-Part Analysis

You’re given a scenario with two related questions. You must pick one correct answer for each part. Choices are shown in two columns, or sometimes a shared list.

What it tests:

• Problem-solving with two connected parts
• Math, logic, or a mix of both

This format often requires you to consider trade-offs or relationships between two aspects of a problem.

For example, you might need to find two numbers that meet certain conditions (testing algebra and number properties) or evaluate two statements about a scenario (testing logical reasoning and reading comprehension).

AWA: Argument Essay Format

The Analytical Writing Assessment is the essay section of the GMAT. It consists of one 30-minute essay task, which is always an Analysis of an Argument.

You will be presented with a short argument (a paragraph or two presenting a conclusion and some evidence or reasoning), and your task is to write an essay that critiques the reasoning of the argument.

You do not give your own opinions on the topic; instead, you analyze how well the argument is reasoned.

You’ll read a short argument and write an essay explaining:

• What is the conclusion
• What evidence is used
• What flaws or assumptions weaken the argument
• What extra info could make it stronger

Your essay is scored on a scale of 0 to 6 (in half-point increments).

It is typically graded by a computerized essay-scoring engine and a human reader; if their scores diverge, a second human reader resolves it.

The scoring is based on several key dimensions:

• Argument analysis – Did you spot key flaws and assumptions?
• Support & examples – Did you explain your points clearly with examples?
• Structure – Is your essay well-organized (intro, body, conclusion)?
• Language use – Is your writing clear and mostly error-free?

To meet the above criteria within 30 minutes, consider the following tips:

1. Understand the Prompt: Read the argument carefully. Identify the conclusion and the evidence used to support it.
2. Plan Before You Write: Spend a few minutes outlining 2–4 major flaws in the argument. Decide your main judgment (e.g., “The argument is weak because of X, Y, and Z”).
3. Use a Clear Structure: Start by paraphrasing the argument and stating it’s flawed, then write paragraphs where each covers one flaw, and lastly conclude your points and suggest how the argument could improve.
4. Be Specific and Logical: When criticizing the argument, be specific about why it is flawed.
5. Write Clearly and Efficiently: Use a formal but direct writing style. Avoid overly complicated sentences that could lead to grammatical mistakes.
6. Proofread (2-3 mins): Check for grammar errors, typos, or unclear sentences.

With these strategies, you’ll be addressing exactly what the GMAT graders are looking for: clear and critical analysis, well-organized ideas, and effective writing.

How Long Is the GMAT?

The GMAT takes about 3 hours and 7 minutes, not including check-in time and breaks.

Section Timing

Each section is 45 minutes long:

1. Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions in 45 minutes
2. Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions in 45 minutes
3. Integrated Reasoning (Data Insights): 20 questions in 45 minutes
4. Total testing time: 2 hours 15 minutes (135 minutes) across three sections

Optional Breaks

You are allowed one optional 10-minute break, which can be taken after either the first or the second section but not both.

If taken, the break starts immediately after the chosen section (first or second), and the next section timer begins right when the break ends.

Computer-Adaptive Test Format

Both the Quantitative and Verbal sections are computer-adaptive; each question’s difficulty adapts in real time to your performance.

• The difficulty of questions adjusts based on your previous answers.
• Answer carefully, you can’t go back to change answers.

At the end of each section, a Question Review & Edit screen lets you review up to 3 answers, as long as time remains within the section’s limit.

What Topics Are Tested on the GMAT?

The GMAT assesses a range of skills through different sections. Each section focuses on specific topic areas essential for business school success.

Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry, Word Problems

Quantitative Reasoning includes:

• Arithmetic & Number Properties: Integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, powers, roots, divisibility, remainders, GCD/LCM.
• Algebra: Linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, exponents, algebraic expressions, and manipulation.
• Geometry: Lines, angles, polygons, circles, areas, volume, coordinate geometry; tested in classic GMAT via Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency questions.
• Word Problems: Real-world scenarios covering work/time, speed/distance, mixtures, interest, profit/loss, ages, probability, permutations/combinations.

These topics appear across both Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency formats without calculator use in most Quant questions.

Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning

Verbal Reasoning consists of:

• Sentence Correction: correcting grammar, usage, idioms, and sentence structure—all within formal written English.
• Reading Comprehension: passages (200–400 words) on business, social sciences, natural sciences, humanities; focus on main ideas, details, inference, logic, structure, tone.
• Critical Reasoning: short arguments requiring identification of assumptions, evaluation of argument strength, conclusion, flaw assessment, method, or paradox resolution

This section tests your ability to read carefully, think analytically, and communicate clearly.

Integrated Data Analysis

The Data Insights section (previously called Integrated Reasoning) evaluates how well you handle complex data:

• Multi-Source Reasoning: synthesize data across text, tables, and graphics to evaluate statements or answer multiple questions.
• Table Analysis: analyze sortable tables to assess multiple conditions (True/False or Yes/No).
• Graphics Interpretation: interpret charts or graphs (bar, line, pie, scatter) and complete fill-in-the-blank statements using a dropdown.
• Two-Part Analysis: Solve paired problems (quantitative, verbal, or mixed) by selecting solutions for both parts in a table format.

Additionally, these topics include some Data Sufficiency prompts, where you determine whether the provided data is adequate.

Sample GMAT Questions by Section

Here are some of the sample GMAT questions listed by section:

Example Quant Question (Problem Solving)

Question: If a wheel turns at a constant rate of x revolutions per minute, how many revolutions will it make in k seconds?

A) 60k × x B) k × x C) x ÷ k D) x ÷ (60 k) E) k x ÷ 60

Answer: E) k × x ÷ 60, since each minute is 60 seconds, revolutions per second = x/60, then multiply by k seconds.

Example Verbal Question (Reading Comprehension)

“Books expected to be valuable often distort Native American history… textbooks stereotype and depreciate cultures…”

Question: Which topic is likely to be discussed next?

A) Methods to evaluate textbook bias

B) Teacher’s role in history education

C) Nontraditional teaching methods

D) European immigrant contributions

E) Parent influence on political views

Answer: A) The passage sets up a discussion on addressing bias, so the follow-up logically discusses evaluating that bias.

Example IR Prompt (Data Insights / Table Analysis)

Scenario: You are presented with an email discussing a company’s sales strategy, a spreadsheet with sales figures, and a chart showing market trends.

Task: Determine if the sales figures support the claims made in the email.

Answer: After analyzing the data, you find that the sales figures do not align with the projected growth mentioned in the email, indicating a discrepancy.

Sample AWA Prompt (Argument Essay)

Sample Prompt: The argument above is flawed because it relies on questionable assumptions. Discuss how well-reasoned the argument is, and how it could be improved.

Task: Write an essay analyzing the reasoning of the argument, identifying any flaws or assumptions, and suggesting improvements.

Answer: Your essay should include an introduction restating the argument, body paragraphs discussing specific flaws or assumptions, and a conclusion summarizing your analysis.

For more practice questions and detailed explanations, you can enroll in our GMAT coaching classes or one-on-one GMAT tutoring online.

How to Prepare for Each GMAT Section

Preparing for the GMAT requires a strategic approach tailored to each section of the test.

Here’s how to effectively prepare for each part of the GMAT exam:

Prep Tools and Official Guides

Start with official resources from the test maker, GMAC:

• GMAT™ Official Guide: Includes real past questions, answer explanations, and a diagnostic test. Versions are available for the total exam or broken into Verbal and Quant guides.
• GMAT™ Official Advanced Questions: Great for high scorers targeting 700+, with tougher Quant and Verbal questions.
• GMATPrep™ Software (free): Offers two full-length, computer-adaptive practice exams and additional question packs.
• Official IR and AWA Practice Sets: You can enroll in an online GMAT coaching class or receive private online 1-on-1 tutoring.

Use these tools to familiarize yourself with real question formats and scoring logic.

Section-Specific Study Plans

Here’s a section-specific study plan you must consider:

1. Quantitative Reasoning

• Focus on arithmetic, algebra, number properties, and word problems first.
• Study Data Sufficiency separately—it’s unique to the GMAT.
• Drill with timed practice to build speed and reduce careless errors.

2. Verbal Reasoning

• For Sentence Correction, learn GMAT grammar rules and idioms.
• Critical Reasoning preparation should focus on assumptions, strengthening and weakening, and inference questions.
• Read academic articles to improve comprehension for Reading Comp.

3. Integrated Reasoning

• Practice interpreting tables, graphs, and multi-source data.
• Use the GMAT’s on-screen calculator efficiently (only allowed in IR).
  Simulate real testing conditions to build stamina.

4. AWA (Essay)

• Practice writing 3–4 full essays and get feedback if possible.
• Learn a reusable template for organizing your argument critique.
• Review sample high-scoring essays and GMAC scoring criteria.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls will also improve your preparation. Some of the key mistakes students make are:

• Ignoring Unforced Errors: Overlooking careless mistakes can hinder progress.
• Test Anxiety: Managing stress is crucial for optimal performance
• Burnout: Maintaining a balanced study schedule prevents exhaustion.
  Overusing Practice Tests: Reserve official practice exams for final assessments to ensure accurate benchmarking.
• Underestimating the Test: Recognize the GMAT’s complexity and prepare accordingly.

FAQs – What People Ask About the GMAT

How many questions are on the GMAT?

The GMAT comprises 64 multiple-choice questions across three sections:

• Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions
• Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions
• Data Insights: 20 questions

What are the 4 sections of the GMAT?

The four sections of the GMAT exam include:

1. Quantitative Reasoning
2. Verbal Reasoning
3. Integrated Reasoning
4. Analytical Writing Assessment

However, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is optional. While not part of the main exam, AWA is often required by business schools.

How long does it take to complete the GMAT?

The GMAT exam lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes, excluding breaks and instructions. An optional 10-minute break is available between sections.

Is the GMAT all multiple choice?

Yes, all questions on the GMAT are multiple-choice. The exam includes various question types, such as Problem Solving, Data Sufficiency, Reading Comprehension, and Critical Reasoning.

What is the hardest part of the GMAT?

Many test-takers find the Quantitative Reasoning section the most challenging, particularly due to the Data Sufficiency questions, which require determining if there’s enough information to solve a problem. Additionally, the section includes complex arithmetic, algebra, and geometry concepts. That said, the difficulty can vary based on individual strengths and weaknesses.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, GMAT is a test designed to see if you’re ready for the challenges of business school. It doesn’t test specific business knowledge you learn in class.

Instead, it checks the core skills you’ll need to succeed: thinking clearly, solving problems, understanding information, and making good decisions.

Quantitative reasoning focuses on basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry, the kind of math used in everyday business situations. Whereas, the verbal reasoning section is designed to test your English skills.

The quantitative reasoning makes you understand what the information means, analyze it, and use it to solve problems or make decisions, just like managers do every day.

Lastly, although not mandatory, the analytical writing assessment tests your writing skills through an essay with an argumentative approach, explaining how strong or weak your reasoning is. Now that you know what is on the GMAT, it’s time to think about how to prepare.

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