Content Curator | Updated On - Jul 20, 2024
GMAT Algebra Syllabus is a part of the quantitative reasoning section. Initially, the previous GMAT Focus edition included the arithmetic, algebra, and geometry in the Quantitative reasoning section. However, since February, GMAT focus edition has removed the geometric section from the quantitative reasoning section, and only the arithmetic and algebra are assessed here. Business schools usually prefer students if they have a strong knowledge of Algebra concepts, as it covers a crucial part of quantitative reasoning.
GMAT algebra questions cover almost 16.3% of the quantitative reasoning section. Approximately, 15 questions appear from algebra, so you need to prepare for this section with regular practice sessions. Basic GMAT algebra concepts include inequalities, functions, quadratic, and linear equations. There are mainly three important algebraic formulas that you must remember by heart to solve the GMAT algebra questions. Remember that you are not allowed to use any form of calculator to answer your questions.
Some basic algebraic terms are variables, constants, terms, degrees, algebraic expressions, and coefficients. GMAT algebra syllabus contains three types of expressions, monomial, polynomial, and binomial. To score higher in the GMAT algebra section, you need to have a methodical approach to solving the problems. GMAT syllabus has been updated recently which has made some changes like the sectional scores scale range is from 60-90, with 1 score interval and 3 points for standard error of measurement. You should understand the concepts and theorems behind the problems and practice papers regularly. Out of the 21 questions in the quantitative reasoning section, you will need to answer 15 questions for the algebra with 2 minutes per question.
Basics of Algebra
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 the questions within a minute can help you save time for the difficult questions to think about. The basic algebra terminologies to solve the GMAT algebra questions are given below -
- Variables - they are the symbols that represent the variable integers in GMAT algebra. X and y are variables in the equation 9x + 4y + 2 as their value is not defined.
- Constants - Constants are the 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 - These are formed when both the variables and constants are combined in the algebraic concepts. For example, in the expression 9x + 4y + 2 : 9x, 4y, and 2 are three terms.
- Algebraic Expression - GMAT algebra formulas like (x + 2), (x – 3c), and (2x – 3y) are all examples of algebraic expressions, which have terms jumbled together by addition or deduction.
- Degree - the power of the variables is measured by its degrees. The highest power of the variable is called a degree.
- Coefficient - it refers to a number or a symbol that is used to indicate a property or a set of properties. In the expression 9x + 4y + 2,Coefficient of x = 9 and Coefficient of y = 4
Concepts of Algebra
GMAT Algebra questions types include linear and quadratic equations, functions, inequalities, exponents, and solving linear equations with different variables. All these sections evaluate your problem-solving and analytical skills in the GMAT test. GMAT scores in the quantitative section carry much weightage in algebra.
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, Transitive property, and Addition of like Qualities. You must the GMAT exam pattern of every section to know the percentage of questions that are expected to come in the test. The four signs of GMAT inequality are -
| Inequality sign | Variables x and y | interpretations |
| > | x > y | x is greater than y |
| < | X < y | x is lesser than y |
| ≥ | x ≥ y | x is greater than or equal to y |
| ≤ | x ≤ y | x is lesser than or equal to y |
One of the sample questions from inequalities for your understanding is given below –
Functions
GMAT algebra questions include functions that are exchanged between two sets of numbers; every single number that one puts into the formula counters with the possible answer. 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. You can also check the GMAT arithmetic syllabus side by side to prepare the entire GMAT quant section. One of the examples of a function problem and its detailed solution is given below -
Combining functions
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 complex parts of algebraic expressions. It deals with the 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 two roots - it can have 0 to 1 or 2 roots. The roots can be found by applying two methods - the factoring method and the quadratic formula.
By the factor method
By the quadratic formula
Linear Equations
A linear equation comprises an unknown variable and a no exponent 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
Solving Linear Equations With Two Unknown 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. 2x4– 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 three important algebra formulas that you need to mug up to solve the GMAT algebra questions. Mugging up the formula and applying 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.
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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