As part of a continuing trend in standardized testing, the GMAT® is shortening its length, reformatting its different sections, and moving towards a digital model with the stated aim of improving accessibility and reducing the stress placed on students taking the exam. The test has been evolving to better reflect the skills needed in modern business. At Zinkerz, we have crafted this comprehensive guide to help you get started with your test prep.
Table of contents
- What Is the GMAT®
- Why Is GMAT® Prep Often Underestimated
- Overview of GMAT® Sections
- GMAT® vs GRE®
- How to Study for the GMAT®
- What Is a Good GMAT® Score
- Score High on the GMAT® with Zinkerz
- GMAT® FAQ
What Is the GMAT®
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT®) is designed to assess the skills students need in MBA programs and beyond. On November 7, 2023, there were significant changes made to the GMAT®. The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) adopted several key changes to the exam and introduced it as the GMAT® Focus edition. They replaced the Integrated Reasoning section with Data Insights and removed the essay portion entirely. Additionally, the test now allows students to revisit and modify up to three answers within each section, which is a significant shift in adaptive testing methodology.
The GMAC later changed the name of the GMAT® Focus exam back to just the GMAT®. Alicia from Zinkerz Team explains the current test format best:
Why Is GMAT® Prep Often Underestimated
“The exam is often underestimated because many students assume it’s like most academic tests they’ve taken. But the test requires strategic preparation, as the questions are designed to challenge how you think, not just what you know,” explains Alicia.
Without proper test preparation, many students find themselves struggling with timing, unfamiliar question formats, and test anxiety. For example, you might spend weeks reviewing basic math concepts when you should be focusing on test-taking strategies and critical thinking skills. Simply put, GMAT® prep is not about memorizing formulas or vocabulary lists. It’s about developing the analytical skills that business schools value most.
Overview of GMAT® Sections
The GMAT® totals 2 hours and 15 minutes, which is about an hour shorter than the previous exam format; it is divided into three 45-minute sections.
| Section | Time | Number of Questions | Subcategories |
| Data Insights | 45 Minutes | 20 | Data Sufficiency Multi-Source Reasoning Table Analysis Graphics Interpretation Two-Part Analysis |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 Minutes | 21 | Statistics Number Properties Linear Equations Inequality Ratio Proportion Probability Functions |
| Verbal Reasoning | 45 Minutes | 23 | Main Idea Supporting Idea Inference Application Logical Structure Style |
| Whole Exam | 2 Hours 15 Minutes | 64 | All of the above |
Here’s also a thorough breakdown of each section.
- Data Insights (previously called Integrated Reasoning)
The Data Insights section measures your ability to analyze and interpret complex data from multiple sources. It assesses subskills that include:
- Data Sufficiency
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Table Analysis
- Graphics
- Interpretation
- Two-Part Analysis (as in multiple steps)
Success in this section demonstrates your capability to make informed decisions based on diverse information. This section is 45 minutes long and contains 20 questions.
- Quantitative Reasoning
This section evaluates your mathematical and problem-solving skills. Questions cover topics like algebra, geometry, and arithmetic. Success in this section demonstrates your proficiency in quantitative analysis, essential for the rigors of business school. This section is also 45 minutes long and contains 21 questions.
- Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section assesses your ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate written material. It includes questions on reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and some topics in sentence correction (i.e. grammar). Proficiency in verbal reasoning reflects your capacity to comprehend complex texts and communicate effectively in a business context. The section is 45 minutes long, just like the other two sections, and contains 23 questions, making the exam 64 questions in total.
GMAT® vs GRE®
Often, students wonder which exam is better: GMAT® or GRE®? The GMAT® is primarily used for business school admissions, while the GRE® is more widely accepted across various graduate programs. If you’re aiming for an MBA, GMAT® could be a better option. If you’re exploring other graduate programs, the GRE® might be a more versatile choice.
Below is a table that highlights how the sections of each test align. Specifically in terms of the topics covered within the Zinkerz curriculum.
| GMAT® Topic | GRE® Equivalent (If Applicable) |
| Data Sufficiency | Varies by Question |
| Multi-Source Reasoning | Varies by Question |
| Table Analysis | Tables |
| Graphics Interpretation | Bar Graphs Distribution Curves Line Graphs Pie Charts |
| Two-Part Analysis | Varies by Question |
| Statistics | Statistics and Data Analysis |
| Number Properties | Integer Properties Counting Number Theory |
| Linear Equations Inequality | Inequalities Equations of Lines |
| Ratio Proportion | Ratios and Proportions |
| Probability Functions | Probability |
| Main Idea | Main Idea |
| Supporting Idea | Support |
| Inference | Implication |
| Application | Argument Detail |
| Logical Structure | Point of View Argument Purpose |
| Style | Words in Context Text Completion |
And lastly, since there is some ambiguity here, we’d like to clarify what the bolded sections above actually cover, as they can correspond to several different types of GRE® questions.
- Data Sufficiency measures your ability to analyze a quantitative problem, recognize which data is relevant, and determine at what point there is enough data to solve the problem.
- Multi-Source Reasoning measures your ability to examine data from multiple sources, including text passages, tables, graphics, or some combination of the three, and to analyze each source of data carefully to answer multiple questions. Some questions will require you to recognize discrepancies among different sources of data, while others will ask you to draw inferences or require you to determine whether data is relevant.
- Two-Part Analysis measures your ability to solve complex problems. They could be quantitative, verbal, or some combination of both. The format is intentionally versatile to cover a wide range of content. The test measures your ability to evaluate trade-offs, solve simultaneous equations, and discern relationships between two entities.
How to Study for the GMAT®
Effective GMAT® prep requires a strategic approach tailored to the test’s unique demands.
Typically, you might need around 2 to 3 months, depending on your starting point and target score. If you’re starting from scratch or aiming for a significant score increase, you might need more time.
Here’s how to approach your preparation:
- Start with a diagnostic test. You need to understand your baseline before creating a study plan.
- Focus on strategy, not just content. The GMAT® tests how you think, so developing a problem-solving strategy is crucial.
- Practice under timed conditions. Time management is often what separates good scores from great scores.
- Take full-length practice tests regularly. This helps build stamina and identifies areas for improvement.
- Address test anxiety early. Many students know the material but struggle with nerves on test day.
What Is a Good GMAT® Score
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Different schools have different score averages. So, a “good” GMAT® score depends on:
- Your target schools’ average scores
- The rest of your application profile
- Your career goals and background
- The competitiveness of your applicant pool
Instead of fixating on achieving a perfect score, focus on reaching a score that makes you competitive at your target schools while allowing time to strengthen other parts of your application.
Research the average GMAT® scores for your target programs. Remember, students gain admission with scores both above and below these averages. You can also check your score before the official release by using our GMAT® score calculator.
What if you get a really low score on your first attempt? Don’t worry, Alicia assures you there’s a way to score higher on your next test.
Score High on the GMAT® with Zinkerz
At Zinkerz, we understand that every student’s GMAT® journey is unique. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all preparation approaches. We customize study plans to fit your specific needs, timeline, and target score. You get access to test prep materials to prepare for the latest format. We believe in learning from every experience and continuously improving our approach.
So, are you ready to ace the GMAT®? Schedule a free consultation, and let’s talk.
GMAT® FAQ
How long is the GMAT®?
The test takes 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete.
How hard is the GMAT®?
The GMAT® is challenging, but it’s designed to be fair. The difficulty lies in the strategic thinking required, not in obscure knowledge. With proper preparation, most students can achieve their target scores.
How long are GMAT® scores valid?
GMAT® scores are valid for five years from your test date. This gives you flexibility in your application timeline and allows you to take the test before submitting your application.
Can you use a calculator on the GMAT®?
The GMAT® provides an on-screen calculator for certain sections, but not all. Part of the test strategy involves knowing when mental math is required versus when you can use the calculator.
How many times can you take the GMAT®?
You can take the GMAT® up to 5 times in a 12-month period, with at least 16 days between attempts. However, most students see their best improvement between their first and second attempts, with proper preparation.
