GRE Arithmetic is a key part of the Quantitative Reasoning section. The GRE Quant section has 4 main topics: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Data Analysis.
Arithmetic covers divisibility, factors, prime numbers, remainders, odd and even numbers, basic operations, exponents, and radicals.
There are 4 types of arithmetic questions on the GRE:
- Quantitative Comparison
- Multiple-Choice (select one answer)
- Multiple-Choice (select one or more answers)
- Numeric Entry
Your GRE Quant score ranges from 130 to 170, and a good average score is 150+.
You can practice GRE arithmetic questions on the ETS official website. Khan Academy, in collaboration with ETS, offers free videos and study materials for GRE Quant preparation. Regular practice will help you understand the question patterns and improve your score.
- GRE Arithmetic Question Types
- GRE Arithmetic Topics
2.1 GRE Arithmetic Integers
2.2 GRE Arithmetic Decimals
2.3 GRE Arithmetic Exponents and Roots
2.4 GRE Arithmetic Percent
2.5 GRE Arithmetic Fraction
2.6 GRE Arithmetic Ratio
2.7 GRE Arithmetic Real Numbers - Tips for GRE Arithmetic
- GRE Arithmetic Practice Test
- FAQs
GRE Arithmetic Question Types
In the GRE Quantitative section, you’ll encounter similar types of arithmetic questions across its four topics. Knowing the GRE exam pattern can help you prepare effectively. The main question types are:
- Quantitative Comparison – These are word problems where you compare 2 quantities. You choose one of 4 answers:
- Quantity A is greater
- Quantity B is greater
- Both quantities are equal
- Cannot be determined
- Multiple Choice Questions – Some questions ask you to select a single answer, while others may require multiple answers, depending on the instructions.
- Numeric Entry – You’ll enter numbers such as integers, decimals, or fractions into a box. Some fraction questions provide two boxes for numerator and denominator.
Understanding these question types and practicing them regularly will make GRE arithmetic questions easier to solve.
GRE Arithmetic Topics
The arithmetic for GRE questions in the GRE Quant is based on different types of arithmetic concepts. The GRE arithmetic syllabus includes all these arithmetic GRE concepts, which can be explained as follows with examples.
GRE Arithmetic Integers
Integers in GRE Arithmetic are different types of numbers, which are either positive or negative numbers. 0 is an exception because it is neither negative nor positive. The integers have their own features as follows:
- Addition of two integers will be an integer (negative or positive).
- Subtraction of two integers will be an integer (negative or positive).
- Product of two integers will be an integer (negative or positive).
- Division of two integers can be an integer or decimal (negative or positive).
- Square of an integer (negative or positive) will be a positive integer.
- Root of a positive integer can be an integer or a decimal.
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Decimals
The GRE arithmetic questions of decimals uses the decimal number system with a base of 10 where digits from 0-9 are used. Accordingly, the successive points from the left of the decimal is 10 
etc and the successive points to the right are 10
and so on. Candidates can find books like Kaplan GRE Maths Guide for the purpose of GRE arithmetic practice.
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Exponents and Roots
A number can be expressed in terms of base, and its powers can be expressed as exponents. When a number is in the form of 
then it is expressed as the root of the number.
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Percentage
Percent in arithmetic for GRE implies that a quantity or number is per 100. Percent is denoted as %. For understanding how GRE arithmetic questions in percent are calculated, an example is necessary:
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Fractions
A number which is denoted in the form of a numerator/ denominator and the denominator is not equal to 0 is called a fraction. In arithmetic and fraction GRE questions, candidates need to understand it with an example. Accordingly, for the fraction 5/2, the numerator is 5 and the denominator is 2. Arithmetic and fractions GRE questions: operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are possible in fractions.
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Ratios
A ratio in arithmetic for GRE means that it is the measure of a quantity expressed by two or more entities. Arithmetic GRE questions is also expressed as a fraction with a numerator and denominator. Examples for ratios in the form of GRE arithmetic questions are as follows. The questions would help candidates achieve a higher GRE score.
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Real Numbers
Real numbers include the set of rational and irrational numbers. Integers, fractions, and decimals are all part of the real numbers, and the GRE arithmetic practice questions include questions based on the real numbers. In a number line, all numbers negative and positive, are real numbers.
Sample Question:
GRE Arithmetic Tips
Candidates need to understand that specific effective strategies need to be applied while solving GRE arithmetic questions. Candidates need to have a strong and active GRE preparation that would help them with arithmetic for GRE.
- Candidates should slow down while solving word problems, thereby reading carefully each instruction.
- Candidates should undertake a GRE study plan to ensure that they have a well-planned approach to appear for the exam.
- Candidates should plan to spend more than 2 minutes on each question to ensure that they have complete concentration and do not rush.
- Candidates should make sure to back-solve the questions to find the correct choice of answers.
- Candidates can follow the GRE Math Arithmetic Review as part of their practice.
- Candidates should stick to their methods of GRE quantitative reasoning and should not divert from their formulas.
- Candidates can make use of the Magoosh GRE as part of their GRE arithmetic practice.
GRE Arithmetic Practice Tests
Candidates, as part of their preparation, need to practice from GRE Quant practice papers to understand their abilities to take the test and solve the questions. The following are the GRE arithmetic practice test papers for candidates willing to appear for the exam.
The GRE Arithmetic tests candidates’ skills in formulae and numbers that are vital in the engineering and management fields. Candidates must practice GRE arithmetic practice questions well before the exam to achieve the desired score.
Also Read
Top GRE Coaching in IndiaFAQs
Ques. What topics are covered in GRE Arithmetic?
Ans. GRE Arithmetic covers fundamental mathematical concepts such as operations with integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, proportions, and basic word problems.
Ques. Do I need to memorize complex formulas for GRE Arithmetic?
Ans. No, you don't need to memorize complex formulas. GRE Arithmetic primarily tests your ability to apply basic mathematical concepts and solve problems using them.
Ques. Can I use a calculator on the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans. No, the GRE Arithmetic section is a calculator-free section. You'll need to perform calculations manually, so it's essential to sharpen your mental math skills.
Ques. How should I prepare for the GRE Arithmetic?
Ans. You should review basic arithmetic concepts, practice solving problems from official GRE materials and other reputable sources, and work on improving your time management skills.
Ques: How many questions are there in the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans: GRE Quantitative part includes two sections, with 12 questions in section 1 and 15 questions in section 2. Candidates are allocated 21 minutes for section 1 and 26 minutes for section 2 to complete the GRE arithmetic and other parts of the quantitative.
Ques: What topics are covered in GRE Arithmetic?
Ans: Arithmetic for GRE includes various topics of divisibility, factorization, prime numbers, remainders, odd and even integers, arithmetic operations, exponents, and radicals.
Ques: How much time is allotted for the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans: Candidates are allocated 21 minutes for section 1, and 26 minutes for section 2 to complete the GRE arithmetic and other parts of the quantitative.
Ques: What is the difficulty level of the arithmetic questions on the GRE?
Ans: Most candidates consider the GRE Quant section harder than the verbal and analytical parts. With an effective study plan and regular practice, candidates can easily answer difficult arithmetic questions.
Ques: How should I manage my time during the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans: You should plan to spend more than 2 minutes on each question to ensure that they have complete concentration and do not rush.
Ques: Are there any official GRE Arithmetic practice materials available?
Ans: You can find official GRE arithmetic practice materials on the ETS official website. ETS GRE official guidebook also offers effective practice materials.
Ques: What is the average score for the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans: GRE score for quantitative reasoning ranges on a scale of 130 to 170. The ideal average score for GRE quantitative section is 150+.
Ques: Are there any tips for improving speed and accuracy in GRE Arithmetic?
Ans: You should plan to spend more than 2 minutes for each question to ensure that they have complete concentration and do not rush, and make sure to solve the questions to find the correct choice of answers
Ques: Can I retake the GRE if I'm not satisfied with my Arithmetic section score?
Ans: You can retake the GRE if not satisfied with your arithmetic score. You need to register again for the full test and need to pay the GRE fees of ₹22,000.
Ques: Are there any online resources or courses specifically designed for GRE Arithmetic preparation?
Ans: You can practice GRE arithmetic practice questions from the ETS official website. Khan Academy now collaborates with ETS and offers free instructional videos and preparation for GRE quantitative reasoning.
Ques. Are there any tips for tackling word problems in GRE Arithmetic?
Ans. Yes, read word problems carefully, identify the unknown variables, and create equations or expressions to represent the problem. Practice translating real-world scenarios into mathematical terms.
Ques. What's the significance of pacing in the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans. Pacing is crucial. You have limited time to complete each question, so practice time management to ensure you have sufficient time to answer all questions.
Ques. Are there any shortcuts or strategies for solving arithmetic problems quickly?
Ans. Yes, look for patterns, use estimation when appropriate, and practice mental math techniques to streamline your calculations.
Ques. Can I skip difficult questions and come back to them later on the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans. Yes, you can skip difficult questions and return to them later. GRE allows you to navigate freely within a section.
Ques. How are GRE Arithmetic questions scored?
Ans. GRE Arithmetic questions are scored based on the number of correct answers. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it's beneficial to guess if you're unsure.
Ques. Can I use scratch paper or take notes during the GRE Arithmetic section?
Ans. Yes, you'll be provided with scratch paper at the test center to use for calculations and notes during the exam. Make sure to use it effectively to organize your work.
*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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