Learn a handful of GMAT math concepts by rote to boost your GMAT score.
There is more than one way to solve almost every GMAT math problem you will encounter on the exam. On most problems, you have a choice. You can either:
- do the straightforward algebra, or
- use a strategy, such as picking numbers for unknowns.
On GMAT number property questions, knowledge of the properties themselves will often allow you to solve without having to do time-consuming math. These number properties fall into three commonly-tested categories. Get familiar with these categories and practice the skills needed for the GMAT so you can boost your score on GMAT Test Day.
Integers and non-integers
An integer is any whole number: positive, negative, or zero. If you add, subtract, or multiply two integers together, the result will always be an integer. However, if you divide two integers, the result may or may not be an integer.
Even and odd numbers
An even number is any integer that, when divided by two, produces another integer (including zero.) An odd number is any integer that does not produce another integer when divided by two.
If two even numbers are added or subtracted, the result is an even number; if two odd numbers are added or subtracted, the result is an even number; and if an even number and an odd number are added or subtracted, the result is an odd number.
If two even numbers are multiplied, the result is even; if two odd numbers are multiplied, the result is odd; and if an even number and an odd number are multiplied, the result is even.
Key: Remember that none of these rules apply when dividing numbers.
Positive and negative numbers
Keep in mind that a positive multiplied or divided by a positive is a positive, a positive multiplied or divided by a negative is a negative, and a negative multiplied or divided by a negative is a positive.
By remembering all the rules listed above, you can often answer GMAT number property questions correctly more quickly than with any other method. This will leave you more time for problems that require you to work out all the math, which in turn can lead to a higher GMAT score.
Practice your GMAT math skills by attending one of our free GMAT events. You can sign up and attend our GMAT practice tests and sample classes from anywhere with an internet connection.
The post Easy GMAT Math Concepts You Can Learn by Heart appeared first on Kaplan GMAT Blog.
