The GRE General Test, administered by ETS, features two scored Quantitative Reasoning sections, each containing 20 questions, for a total of 40 math problems. These are multiple-choice (single or multiple answers), numeric entry, or quantitative comparison formats testing algebra, geometry, data analysis, and arithmetic.
Here's the breakdown:
- Section 1 (Quantitative Reasoning): 12 questions in the first part, 8 in the second (20 total).
- Section 2 (Quantitative Reasoning): Similarly, 20 questions.
- Possible Research or Unscored Section: An additional unidentified Quantitative section (20 questions) may appear for ETS research; it doesn't count toward your score.
- Total Test Time: About 47 minutes per scored Quant section (roughly 1.5–2 minutes per question).
No separate "math-only" test exists the GRE includes Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and an Analytical Writing section. The computer-adaptive format adjusts difficulty based on performance: stronger answers lead to harder questions in the next section.
Key Tips for Preparation:
- Focus on high-yield topics: Algebra (equations, functions) ~35%, Data Analysis (statistics, probability) ~25%, Geometry ~15%, Arithmetic ~15%.
- Use official ETS materials (PowerPrep tests) for realistic practice.
- Aim for accuracy over speed; wrong answers don't penalize beyond zero points.
- Total scored math: Always 40 questions contributing to your 130–170 Quant score.
In total, you'll encounter 40–60 math problems depending on unscored sections, but only 40 are scored. Practice with timed mocks to build stamina!