How Many Sections Are There in the GMAT Focus Edition?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. The Evolution of GMAT Sections

3. The Three Sections of the GMAT Focus Edition

4. Why Three Sections Matter

5. Section Order and Pacing Strategies

6. Section-Specific Tips and Common Pitfalls

7. Integrated Preparation: Combining Sections

8. Frequently Asked Questions About GMAT Sections

9. Conclusion

Introduction

One of the first questions prospective GMAT takers ask is, “How many sections are there?” Understanding the structure of the GMAT is a crucial first step toward crafting a smart preparation strategy. As a seasoned admissions consultant, I’ve guided thousands of applicants through the GMAT journey, and I can attest that knowing what to expect is half the battle. The latest iteration of the exam—the GMAT Focus Edition—features a streamlined structure designed to reflect the skills business schools value most. In this comprehensive article, I’ll break down the number of sections, the content each covers, and the skills they evaluate. I’ll also share insights on how to approach each section and build a balanced study plan that addresses your strengths and weaknesses.

The Evolution of GMAT Sections

To appreciate the current GMAT structure, it helps to recall where it came from. Historically, the GMAT included four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning. However, after extensive research and feedback from schools and test takers, GMAC introduced the GMAT Focus Edition, which condenses the test into three core sections. The AWA was removed, and Integrated Reasoning evolved into the Data Insights section. This redesign aims to make the exam more efficient while better aligning it with the skills that matter in today’s data-rich business environment.[1]

The Three Sections of the GMAT Focus Edition

1. Quantitative Reasoning (QR)

What It Tests: The Quantitative Reasoning section assesses your ability to reason quantitatively, solve numerical problems and interpret graphic data. It requires mastery of arithmetic, algebra and basic geometry, but its primary focus is on problem solving and logical reasoning rather than advanced math. You’ll encounter two types of questions: Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency.

• Problem Solving questions present a question and five answer choices. You must solve a mathematical problem and select the correct answer. These questions test your ability to translate word problems into mathematical expressions and manipulate numbers efficiently.

• Data Sufficiency questions present a problem followed by two statements. Instead of finding the answer, you must determine whether the provided statements contain enough information to answer the question. The answer choices are standardized (e.g., Statement 1 alone is sufficient, both statements together are sufficient, etc.). Data Sufficiency is unique to the GMAT and develops your logical reasoning and decision-making skills.

Timing and Scoring: The QR section is timed separately. Although exact time limits may adjust in future iterations, it typically spans around 45 minutes and includes roughly 21 questions. Like all sections in the GMAT Focus Edition, QR is computer-adaptive: the difficulty of subsequent questions adjusts based on your performance. Your QR score ranges from 60 to 90, contributing equally to your total score.[2]

How to Prepare: Success in QR requires a strong foundation in basic math and a strategic approach to problem solving. Here’s how to prepare:

• Master Fundamentals: Review arithmetic, algebra, geometry and basic statistics. Many candidates forget high-school concepts like factoring polynomials or calculating the area of a trapezoid. A refresher can prevent simple errors.

• Practice Data Sufficiency: These questions can be tricky, but with practice you’ll learn to quickly determine whether information is sufficient. Focus on identifying when a statement alone provides enough information and when additional details are needed.

• Develop Pacing: The adaptive nature of the section makes pacing crucial. Allocate time wisely and avoid spending more than two minutes on any one question. If you’re stuck, make an educated guess and move on to avoid blanks.[3]

• Use Official Materials: Practice with the GMAT Official Guide and question bank[4]. Official materials mimic real test questions and illustrate typical quantitative traps.

2. Verbal Reasoning (VR)

What It Tests: Verbal Reasoning measures your ability to understand and evaluate written material, reason and analyze arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. It consists of three question types:

• Reading Comprehension (RC): You’ll read a passage and answer questions about its main idea, supporting details, assumptions and implications. Passages span business, social science and physical science topics.

• Critical Reasoning (CR): These questions present a short argument and ask you to analyze the reasoning, identify assumptions, evaluate evidence or strengthen/weaken the argument.

• Sentence Correction (SC): These questions test grammar, diction and sentence construction. You’ll select the best version of a sentence from several choices, taking into account clarity, conciseness and idiomatic correctness.

Timing and Scoring: The VR section is also individually timed, generally around 45 minutes. It includes approximately 23 questions. Like QR, it is adaptive and contributes to your 60–90 scaled score[2].

How to Prepare: Strong verbal performance hinges on reading ability, critical thinking and grammar mastery.

• Read Actively: Practice reading complex materials—business journals, economics articles and editorials. Summarize paragraphs, identify argument structures and note transitions. This will improve speed and comprehension.

• Study Critical Reasoning: Learn to break down arguments into premises and conclusions. Familiarize yourself with common question types (e.g., strengthen, weaken, assumptions) and practice with official questions. Many test takers find CR improves with pattern recognition.

• Review Grammar and Style: Sentence Correction requires familiarity with grammar rules, including subject–verb agreement, modifiers, parallelism and idiomatic expressions. Study grammar guides and use flashcards to internalize rules.

• Practice Under Timed Conditions: Time pressure can hamper performance. Regularly practice timed verbal sets to build stamina and develop pacing strategies.

3. Data Insights (DI)

What It Tests: The Data Insights section, unique to the Focus Edition, measures your ability to interpret and analyze complex data from various sources[2]. It reflects the growing emphasis on data literacy in business. DI includes question types such as:

• Multi‑Source Reasoning: Requires synthesizing information from multiple tabs or data sources. You’ll answer questions based on tables, charts or text across separate screens.

• Table Analysis: Presents a sortable table with numerical data. You must evaluate statements (often yes/no) by sorting and filtering rows to extract relevant data.

• Graphics Interpretation: Provides charts or graphs and asks you to select correct values or complete statements based on the visual data.

• Two‑Part Analysis: Presents a complex problem with two related answers, often integrating quantitative and verbal reasoning. You must find both answers from a table of options.

Timing and Scoring: The DI section typically lasts 45 minutes with around 20 questions. It is adaptive and contributes equally to your total score.[2]

How to Prepare: Data Insights requires practice with data sets and an ability to synthesize information quickly.

• Familiarize with Data Formats: Work with charts, graphs and tables from business reports or analytics tools. Practice interpreting trends, calculating percentages and drawing conclusions.

• Focus on Multi‑Tasking: DI often integrates quantitative and verbal reasoning. Improve your ability to switch between numerical calculations and textual analysis.

• Use Official DI Questions: Because DI is new, official GMAC resources are particularly valuable. The GMAT Official Guide and practice exams include DI questions that mirror real test content.[4]

• Develop Spreadsheet Skills: Although you won’t use Excel on the GMAT, familiarity with sorting and filtering data will help you navigate tables quickly.

Why Three Sections Matter

Balanced Assessment

By condensing the GMAT into three equally weighted sections, GMAC places equal emphasis on quantitative skills, verbal proficiency and data literacy. This balance reflects the demands of contemporary business roles, which require professionals to analyze data, communicate effectively and think logically. As an admissions consultant, I see that schools appreciate applicants with balanced profiles. An exceptional quant score with mediocre verbal or data insights performance may raise concerns about a candidate’s ability to contribute to discussions or interpret data in a modern business context.

Efficient Testing Experience

The Focus Edition’s three-section format shortens the overall test length to around 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it less taxing than its predecessor. Candidates appreciate the streamlined experience, and admissions committees still receive comprehensive data on a candidate’s abilities[1]. A shorter exam reduces fatigue and may lead to more accurate representations of a candidate’s abilities across sections.

Flexibility in Preparation

With only three sections, candidates can allocate study time more strategically. For example, if you have a strong quantitative background but limited exposure to data interpretation, you can spend more time developing DI skills. The reduction in sections also means fewer transitions during the exam, which can reduce cognitive load and help you maintain focus.

Section Order and Pacing Strategies

Choosing the Section Order

Some versions of the GMAT allow test takers to select the order in which they tackle the sections. If the Focus Edition provides this flexibility, consider your strengths and mental stamina. For instance, if you’re strongest in Quantitative Reasoning, starting with QR can boost confidence. Others prefer to tackle their weakest section first while their mind is fresh. Ultimately, choose the order that minimizes stress and maximizes focus.

Managing Time Across Sections

Time management is critical in all three sections. Here are general strategies:

• Set Internal Benchmarks: Divide each section into segments. For example, in a 45-minute section, plan to finish half the questions by the 22-minute mark. This helps you avoid being pressed for time near the end.

• Don’t Get Stuck: If you’re struggling with a question, make an educated guess and move on. The adaptive algorithm penalizes unanswered questions more than incorrect ones[3].

• Practice Adaptive Thinking: Remember that the difficulty of questions adapts to your performance. Don’t panic if a question seems hard—it likely reflects that you’re doing well. Stay calm and follow your strategies.

• Use Breaks Wisely: In the Focus Edition, you have one optional 10-minute break[5]. Use it to rest your eyes, stretch and reset. Avoid checking your phone or thinking about previous questions.

Section-Specific Tips and Common Pitfalls

Quantitative Reasoning Tips

• Memorize Formulas: Know formulas for area, volume, slope, basic statistics and number properties. Recalling formulas quickly saves time.

• Check Units and Scales: Pay attention to units in word problems. A common trap is mixing meters with centimeters or hours with minutes.

• Beware of Traps: GMAT questions often include distractors—answers that are numerically correct but don’t answer the question. Always read the question carefully.

Verbal Reasoning Tips

• Read the Question First: In Critical Reasoning, read the question stem before the argument to know whether you’re strengthening, weakening or evaluating. This pre‑focus speeds up comprehension.

• Identify Conclusion and Premises: Break down arguments into premises and conclusions; this helps identify assumptions or gaps.

• Watch for Modifier Errors: In Sentence Correction, modifiers often appear in incorrect positions. Ensure the modifying phrase clearly refers to the right word.

Data Insights Tips

• Practice Data Visualization: Familiarize yourself with different chart types (bar, pie, line, stacked). Recognize how data is presented and what trends to look for.

• Use the Tools Provided: If the platform allows sorting or filtering, use these functions to quickly isolate relevant information.

• Check Each Option Carefully: DI questions often ask you to choose which statements are true or select all that apply. Read each statement carefully to avoid misinterpretation.

Integrated Preparation: Combining Sections

While each section has unique demands, there is synergy in preparation. Many skills overlap:

• Critical Reading Across Sections: Reading comprehension skills aid in understanding quant word problems and interpreting DI questions.

• Logical Reasoning: The logic required in Data Sufficiency is similar to that in Critical Reasoning. Practicing these question types together can reinforce reasoning skills.

• Time Management: Pacing strategies apply to all sections. Use practice exams to learn your natural tempo and adjust accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions About GMAT Sections

Q1: Are the three sections weighted equally in the total score?

Yes. The Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights sections are each weighted equally when calculating your total score[2]. This underscores the importance of balanced preparation.

Q2: Can I skip and return to questions in any section?

No. The GMAT’s adaptive format requires you to answer each question in order. You cannot skip and return later.[3]

Q3: How long should I spend on each question?

On average, allocate about two minutes per question. However, question difficulty varies. Some may take less time, freeing up minutes for more challenging ones. Regular timed practice will help you develop pacing intuition.

Q4: Is the Data Insights section easier than the old Integrated Reasoning section?

Not necessarily. While DI builds on Integrated Reasoning, it incorporates new question formats and may be more challenging for those unfamiliar with data analysis. Preparation is key.

Q5: Do I need to be a math expert to ace the QR section?

You don’t need advanced math beyond high-school algebra and geometry. The GMAT focuses on reasoning rather than complex calculations. Solid fundamentals, practice and strategy are more important than being a math “whiz.”

Q6: How does the removal of Analytical Writing impact admissions?

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is no longer part of the Focus Edition. Some programs may ask for a writing sample separately or rely on essays in your application to assess writing skills. The removal streamlines the exam and highlights the three core skill areas schools prioritize.

Conclusion

The GMAT Focus Edition’s three-section structure—Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Data Insights—represents a purposeful evolution of the exam. Each section is carefully designed to evaluate the skills that matter in today’s data-driven, collaborative business environment. Understanding the purpose, format and demands of each section is the first step in creating a successful study plan.

As an admissions consultant with more than a decade of experience, I can attest that balanced performance across these sections not only maximizes your GMAT score but also prepares you for the analytical and communicative challenges of business school. Embrace the structure as a roadmap: strengthen your quantitative logic, refine your verbal articulation and hone your ability to derive insights from data. With focused preparation and a clear understanding of each section’s role, you’ll be well-equipped to excel on the GMAT and beyond.