The Graduate Management Admission Test, or simply GMAT, has seen a sea of changes since the GMAT Focus Edition came into effect. Being one of those changes, the previously known Integrated Reasoning section now goes by the name Data Insights. This section tests the candidate’s ability to interpret and analyze data, which is crucial for success in business school and beyond. In this blog, we will take an in-depth view of the GMAT data insights section involving its format, syllabus, scoring, and preparation methodology. Read till the end to get a better understanding of GMAT data insights.
What is the GMAT Data Insights Section?
The GMAT Focus Edition’s data insights segment is designed to check one’s abilities in the evaluation of information provided in multiple formats and from multiple sources. This can be in the form of graphs, charts, and tables, or even working with information in any of these formats to arrive at a solution. This section seeks to test the candidate’s analytical and data interpretation abilities, which are critical in business circles.
Is Integrated Reasoning the Same as Data Insights?
The revised section, data insight consists of two broader categories: data sufficiency and integrated reasoning. Of the two, integration reasoning consists of Table Analysis, Multi-source reasoning, Graphical Interpretation, and Two-part Analysis questions.
How Many Data Insights Questions are in the GMAT?
The data insights section consists of 20 questions to be answered in 45 minutes. This section comprises the following types of questions:
- Data sufficiency
- Graphics interpretation
- Table analysis
- Two-part analysis
- Multi-source reasoning
GMAT Data Insights Exam Pattern
The data insights section contains:
- Data sufficiency: It’s to see if you can look at a problem and work out if you’ve got enough information or too much superfluous information to answer it, rather than solving the problem.
- Multi-source reasoning: Questions with base information from several sources, like a text passage, table, graph, or chart are called.
- Table analysis: Reading of sorts, tables, analyzing for specific conditions to be met.
- Graphics interpretation: Data interpretation is presented in the form of graphs.
- Two-part analysis: Complicated problems where a solution to two components of a single problem needs to be found.
How to Prepare for the GMAT Data Insights Section
- Take Practice Tests: Take full-length practice tests for simulation of the test-taking environment; this develops endurance and skills in time management.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Isolate areas of weakness by using practice tests and work diligently to overcome them.
- Seek Help if Needed: Help yourself out from online forums, study groups, or professional tutors for GMAT Data Insights when you find concepts challenging.
- Official GMAT materials: The most effective way to prepare for the GMAT is by using official GMAT practice materials. These resources accurately reflect the format, content, and difficulty level of the actual exam.
- Build up Critical Thinking Skills: One major area of focus would be the strengthening of one’s skills in the quick analysis of data and its inference. Achieve these by practicing regularly on data sets and developing one’s skills related to critical thinking.
- Practice under timed conditions: The data insights section of the test is time-bound. Hence, much of the practice should be done within a time constraint to develop the right speed and reasonable accuracy.
- Check and review your answers: Review your answers after practice to find out where things went wrong. Such an analysis may enable you to realize what topics you need to brush up on.
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