GMAT Data Insights: The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) has long been recognised as a benchmark for admissions into top-tier business programs.
In keeping with the evolving dynamics of the business world, the GMAT has been revamped into the GMAT Focus Edition. This new format comprises three main sections – Quantitative, Verbal, and the newly added Data Insights.
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The new GMAT Focus Edition has three main sections – Quantitative, Verbal, and the newly added GMAT Data Insights.
New GMAT Sections |
No of Questions |
Question types |
Section duration |
Verbal Reasoning |
23 |
Comprehension, Critical Reading Reasoning |
45 Minutes |
Quantitative Reasoning |
21 |
Problem Solving, Algebra and Arithmetic |
45 Minutes |
Data Insights |
20 |
Data Sufficiency; Multi-source Reasoning; Table Analysis; Graphics Interpretation; Two-Part Analysis |
45 minutes |
The GMAT Data Insights section is not an adjunct; it is an integral part of the exam. Its inclusion reflects the increasing importance of data literacy and analytics in the business world.
This section assesses a candidate’s proficiency in interpreting and analysing various data forms and essential skills in the data-heavy landscape of modern business.
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This section ensures that the GMAT aligns with contemporary business requirements by mirroring the rise of data-centric roles in industry and the emphasis on data-intensive subjects in business schools. Thus, mastery of this section is crucial for candidates to distinguish themselves and demonstrate their preparedness for data-driven business education and careers.
Thus, the Data Insights section is not merely an addition to the GMAT; it’s a direct response to the evolving demands of the business world.
Though the term GMAT Data Insights (DI) may appear as a fresh addition, it amalgamates the elements of Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency from the Quantitative Reasoning section into one consolidated section, Data Insights.
The Data Insights section comprises five questions: Data Sufficiency, Graphics Interpretation, Table Analysis, Two-Part Analysis, and Multi-Source Reasoning. These questions test various skills, from quantitative reasoning to reading comprehension and critical reasoning.
The GMAT Focus edition divides the Data Insights composition into various components. Graphics Interpretation forms 20-30% of the content, while Multi-Source Reasoning, Table Analysis, and Two-Part Analysis each comprise 10-20%. Data Sufficiency Analysis is a significant segment, accounting for 20-40% of the composition. This distribution reflects a balanced approach, emphasising visual interpretation and logical reasoning skills essential for business management studies.
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The GMAT Data Insights section tests a variety of skills:
These skills are crucial not only for the GMAT but also in fields where data interpretation and analysis play vital roles.
The section comprises 20 questions distributed among five types, each assessing different data interpretation and analysis facets.
Let’s discuss each question type:
These questions present a mathematical problem and two separate statements labelled (1) and (2). The goal is not necessarily to solve the problem but to determine whether the information given in the statements, separately or together, is sufficient to solve the problem. DS questions assess your ability to identify the critical pieces of information needed to solve a problem and your understanding of “sufficient” and “insufficient” data.
These questions require you to interpret and analyse information presented in a graph or other visual display, such as a scatter plot, x-y graph, bar graph, pie chart, or statistical curve distribution. GIQs challenge your ability to extract relevant information from visual data, draw inferences, identify relationships and patterns, and apply those insights to answer related questions.
You are given a data table for these questions that you can sort on various columns. A set of statements follows the table, and you have to determine whether each statement is true or false based on the information in the table. TAQs test your ability to analyse and synthesise data from a table, discern patterns or trends, and make accurate statements about the data.
These questions provide a problem with two related parts. Your task is to find the correct answer to each part, remembering that the answers are interconnected. The format can be mathematical or verbal, requiring you to use logical reasoning, text analysis, or quantitative problem-solving skills.
MSR questions present data from multiple sources, such as short texts, charts, or tables. These questions require you to analyse, interpret, and integrate information from various sources to solve complex problems. They test your ability to navigate and synthesise multi-faceted information and your aptitude for decision-making based on that information.
In the GMAT Focus Edition, the Data Insights section is as significant as the Quantitative and Verbal sections. These three sections now contribute a third to the total GMAT score. Data Insights score directly contributes to the total GMAT score. A robust performance in this section could significantly improve the total score.
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As data becomes increasingly central to business decisions, the skills assessed in the Data Insights section have become more relevant to modern business education.
By employing this refined approach, you’ll be strategically positioned to elevate your Data Insights score on the GMAT Focus edition. A blend of targeted preparation, analytical review, and continuous refinement provides a comprehensive path to your desired success level.
Remember, improving your Data Insights performance isn’t about cramming at the last minute. It’s a gradual process that involves understanding, practice, analysis, and persistence.
In conclusion, the Data Insights section in the GMAT Focus Edition highlights the importance of data interpretation and analysis in today’s business world. This section tests a blend of quantitative, critical reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills, mirroring real-world data-rich scenarios. To ace this, leverage high-quality resources and ensure dedicated preparation. Remember, success in this section improves your GMAT score and equips you with vital skills for your business education and future career in this data-driven era.