CHAPTER 19

Arithmetic on the GMAT

Learning Objectives

After studying this chapter, you will be able to: 

• Describe which arithmetic topics are tested on the GMAT
• Identify questions that involve arithmetic concepts
• Apply the Kaplan Methods for Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency to questions testing a variety of arithmetic concepts

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

1. If x is a number such that −2 ≤ x ≤ 2, which of the following has the largest possible absolute value?
   1. 3x – 1
   2. x² – x
   3. 3 – x
   4. x – 3
   5. x² + 1

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 do you notice about the answer choices?
• How do the math concepts in the question relate to the answer choices?
• What GMAT Core Competencies are most essential to success on this question?