CHAPTER 18

Algebra on the GMAT

Learning Objectives

After studying this chapter, you will be able to: 

• Describe which topics in algebra are tested on the GMAT
• Identify questions that feature algebra
• Apply the Kaplan Methods for Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency in questions testing various algebra skills

Below is a typical Problem Solving algebra question. In this chapter, we’ll look at how to apply the Kaplan Method to this question, discuss the algebra rules being tested, and go over the basic principles and strategies that you want to keep in mind on every Quantitative question involving algebra.

1. If x + y = 2 and x² − xy − 10 − 2y² = 0, what does x − 2y equal?
   1. 0
   2. 1
   3. 2
   4. 5
   5. 10

Before you move on, take a minute to think about what you see in this question and answer some questions about how you think it works:

• What mathematical concepts are being tested in this question?
• What does the format of the answer choices tell you about this question?
• Do you need to know the exact values of x and y to answer this question?
• What GMAT Core Competencies are most essential to success on this question?