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Algebra in GMAT is a part of the Quantitative Reasoning section. With 13-15 questions, Algebra makes up almost 16.3% of the section. The core concepts include inequalities, functions, quadratic, and linear equations. Some basic terms of Algebra are variables, constants, terms, degrees, algebraic expressions, and coefficients. GMAT Algebra syllabus contains 3 types of expressions: monomial, polynomial, and binomial.
To score higher in this section, you need to have a methodical approach to solving the problems. You should understand the concepts and theorems behind the problems and practice papers regularly. Out of the 21 questions in the GMAT quantitative reasoning section, you will asked around 15 questions from algebra, so you need to practice spending 2 minutes per question.
Basics of Algebra
The GMAT Algebra syllabus contains the basics of algebraic terms that you need to get familiarized with before digging deeper into algebraic expressions. Tips for managing your time effectively and solving questions within a minute can help you save time for the difficult questions. The basic algebra terminologies to solve the questions are given below:
- Variables - Symbols that represent the variable integers. x and y are variables in the equation 9x + 4y + 2, as their value is not defined.
- Constants - Values that do not change in algebraic problems. 2 is a constant term in equation 9x + 4y + 2, as it has one unique and defined value.
- Terms - Formed when both the variables and constants are combined. For example, in the expression 9x + 4y + 2 : 9x, 4y, and 2 are 3 terms.
- Algebraic Expression - Formulae like (x + 2), (x – 3c), and (2x – 3y) are all examples of algebraic expressions, which have terms jumbled together by addition or subtraction.
- Degree - The highest power of a variable.
- Coefficient - A number or a symbol that is used to indicate a property or a set of properties. In the expression 9x + 4y + 2, the Coefficient of x = 9 and the Coefficient of y = 4.
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GMAT Quantitative ReasoningConcepts of Algebra
GMAT Algebra question types include linear and quadratic equations, functions, inequalities, exponents, and solving linear equations with different variables. All these question types evaluate your problem-solving and analytical skills in the GMAT. The sections below give explanations for the different question types of Algebra in GMAT.
Inequalities
GMAT algebra concepts include inequalities that work with non-equal comparisons between 2 numbers or other mathematical concepts. The fundamental concepts are mathematical operations with inequalities, functioning with ranges of numbers, the transitive property, and addition of like qualities. You must understand the GMAT exam pattern of every section to know how many questions are expected to come in the test.
The table below explains the sign concept of Algebra:
| Inequality sign | Variables x and y | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| > | x > y | x is greater than y |
| < | X < y | x is less than y |
| ≥ | x ≥ y | x is greater than or equal to y |
| ≤ | x ≤ y | x is less than or equal to y |
Sample Question:
Functions
GMAT algebra questions include functions, which is a rule that assigns to each input value exactly one output value. A function is represented by a letter along with the variable in the expression. The fundamental concepts are the domain of function and range of function.
Sample Question: Combining functions
Sample Question: Composite Functions
Another way of combining functions is with a composite function. This means the functions are nested, so you apply one function to find a value, and then apply a second function to that value. It is important to follow the order of operations, doing the inside function first, then the outside function.
Quadratic Equations
Quadratic equations are another concept in the GMAT algebra syllabus and are considered one of the most complex parts of algebraic expressions. The question types include factoring method of quadratic equations, determining solutions for the difference of the Perfect squares, Root, and quadratic formula. There are many GMAT online coaching classes for you to prepare for your test from the comfort of your home.
Roots of a quadratic equation
The roots of the quadratic equation are nothing but the solutions of the equations. A quadratic equation can have a maximum of 2 roots, which can be found by applying 2 methods - the factoring method and the quadratic formula.
By the factoring method
By the quadratic formula
Linear Equations
A linear equation comprises an unknown variable and no exponent is more than 1. It uses concepts like Linear Equations with two unknowns and a Number of Solutions. If you find linear equations tough, you can enroll yourself in GMAT coaching classes that will offer you various tips and tricks to solve problems in a short amount of time.
Solving linear equations with two variables:
Three Expressions of Algebra
- Monomial: A number, variable, or a product of numbers and variables with whole number exponents are known as monomials. In 2x4 – 5x2 + 3, each of 2x4, -5x2, and 3 is a monomial.
- Polynomial: A sum of a monomial is a polynomial. 2x2– 5x2 + 3 is a polynomial. Each monomial is called a term.
- Binomial: A polynomial with two terms is called binomial. 2x4 + 3 and y – 7 are binomials.
Algebraic Formulas
There are 3 important algebra formulas that you need to remember to solve the GMAT algebra questions. Remembering the formula and apply it correctly to score higher marks in the algebra section. You also need to check the GMAT exam eligibility criteria to register for the test. You also need to keep a check on the GMAT Syllabus to get familiar with the topics. The formulas are given below -
- The difference in Two Squares: a2 – b2=(a−b)(a+b)
- Squaring a Binomial: (a ± b)2 = a2 ± 2ab + b2
- The Discriminant: D=b2 – 4ac
Preparation Tips for GMAT Algebra
GMAT algebra practice questions are one of the best and most useful hacks that serve as the base of your preparation. By solving GMAT sample papers, you can have an idea of what to expect on the test day, and the types of algebra questions that you may encounter. GMAT algebra practice questions are available on numerous websites and online and offline courses. Some of the useful tips for your GMAT preparation are given below -
- You should become familiar with the theorems and explanations behind every algebraic problem, and go ahead with learning the shortcuts. Memorize the formulas and make it a habit to read them regularly before starting your preparation.
- Using the GMAT algebra formula will help you answer almost all the questions easily. Do not dwell on the difficult questions for a long time, and equal weightage should be given to every question, regardless of the difficulty level.
- You should make it a part of your daily routine to practice rigorously each section of the algebra, and the sections you are finding difficult.
Preparation Books for GMAT Algebra
Referring to study guidebooks can help you to make your preparation more comprehensive. To avail of this, below are some GMAT prep books for the quantitative section that offer you strategic tips, mock tests -
- Official Guide for GMAT Quantitative Review: Check PDF
- GMAT Advanced Quant By Manhattan Prep: Check PDF
- Manhattan Prep GMAT foundation for Maths: Check PDF
- Kaplan's GMAT Math Workbook: Check PDF
To answer all the GMAT algebra questions, you need to know the shortcuts and tricks. You must memorize the formula and solve practice papers that are available on the GMAT official website as well as other websites. Go through each of the topics in GMAT algebra thoroughly before taking the test.
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FAQs
Ques. Which algebraic topics are typically assessed on the GMAT?
Ans. The GMAT examines algebraic concepts such as linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, exponents, polynomials, functions, and word problems involving algebraic principles.
Ques. How can I effectively solve algebraic equations?
Ans. To manage time efficiently, practice solving equations using methods like isolating variables, factoring, and applying the quadratic formula.
Ques. What strategies can I use to solve algebraic word problems on the GMAT?
Ans-You can break down word problems into smaller components, assign variables to unknowns, translate sentences into equations, and identify keywords indicating mathematical operations.
Ques. How can I improve my skills to solve algebraic expressions for the GMAT?
Ans. You should regularly practice with algebraic problems from GMAT prep materials, concentrate on recognizing patterns and shortcuts, and review fundamental algebraic concepts.
Ques. What are the differences between linear and quadratic equations?
Ans. Linear equations involve variables raised to the power of 1, while quadratic equations feature variables raised to the power of 2.
Ques. What resources are available for practicing GMAT algebra problems?
Ans. You may use the official GMAT prep materials, GMAT study guides, online forums, and GMAT prep courses that offer a variety of algebra practice questions.
Ques. How can I track my progress and identify areas for improvement in GMAT algebra?
Ans. You should devote at least 2 hours every day to each of the sections in algebra and keep a log of questions attempted, review incorrect answers to understand mistakes, and focus on practicing weaker areas through targeted study sessions.
Ques. What are some of the tips for identifying patterns and relationships in algebraic expressions on the GMAT?
Ans. You should look for common algebraic structures such as perfect squares, differences of squares, and algebraic identities like the difference of cubes or summation of cubes.
Ques. Are there any prevalent algebraic formulas or identities I should memorize for the GMAT?
Ans. There are three different algebraic formulas that you need to memorize by heart to solve the questions easily. The formulas are - The difference in Two Squares: a2–b2=(a−b)(a+b)
Squaring a Binomial: (a±b)2=a2±2ab+b2, The Discriminant: D=b2–4ac
Ques. What approaches should I use for solving inequalities in GMAT algebra questions?
Ans. You should first know the basic inequality signs to understand the question. You can go ahead with practicing the particular section of the inequalities from various books.
Ques. What are some effective techniques for solving linear equations on the GMAT?
Ans. You should utilize substitution, elimination methods, or matrices to solve systems of equations efficiently. In certain cases, graphical methods can also provide insights. You can check out various websites that provide you with insightful information on how to solve linear equations.
Ques. What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving algebra problems on the GMAT?
Ans. You should be clear of making careless errors by double-checking calculations, ensuring logical steps, and reviewing the problem before moving forward.
Ques. Are there specific techniques for efficiently solving systems of equations with three or more variables on the GMAT?
Ans. You can utilize methods like substitution, elimination, or matrices to systematically solve systems of equations with multiple variables, focusing on reducing the number of variables in each step of the process.
Ques. What is factoring, and how is it used in algebra?
Ans. Factoring is the process of breaking down algebraic expressions into simpler factors. It is used to simplify expressions, solve equations, and identify patterns.
Ques. What is the difference between an expression and an algebra equation?
Ans. An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations, while an equation is a statement asserting that two expressions are equal.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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