GMAT Syllabus 2025: Quantitative, Verbal & Data Syllabus, Download Free PDF

The GMAT exam is a 2-hour 15-minute test with a maximum score of 805. Over the years, the GMAT syllabus has undergone several revisions to make it more relevant to modern business education.

So, what does the GMAT Focus Edition (11th Edition) syllabus include?
The exam now tests candidates across three key sections:

• Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
• Verbal Reasoning (VR)
• Data Insights (DI)
  

The GMAT syllabus is designed to be dynamic, blending quantitative topics such as Arithmetic and Algebra with sections that evaluate data interpretation, analytical skills, and critical reasoning abilities.

In the most recent update, the GMAT moved from the four-section format of the 10th Edition to a streamlined three-section structure in the 11th Edition. As part of this change, topics such as Geometry, the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), and the Integrated Reasoning section have been removed.

Let’s explore the new GMAT Focus Edition syllabus in detail, along with the essential topics that aspirants must focus on during their preparation.

GMAT Exam Pattern 2025

Here’s how the GMAT Focus Edition is structured:

Scoring: Each section is scored from 60–90 (1-mark increment), and the composite score ranges from 205–805.

Note: The exam duration is shorter, and the structure is simplified compared to the older GMAT format.

GMAT Exam Syllabus

GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GMAT Focus Edition consists of 21 questions to be completed within a 45-minute time limit. All questions are objective and multiple-choice in nature. This section primarily features Problem-Solving questions that test a candidate’s ability to apply logic, analytical reasoning, and mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios.

The questions in this section are drawn from a well-defined set of mathematical topics, covering both arithmetic and algebraic concepts. Candidates can expect the syllabus to include the following areas:

The GMAT Quant section now focuses only on two critical areas:

• Algebra (e.g., linear & quadratic equations, inequalities, functions, logarithms)
• Arithmetic (e.g., number system, ratios, percentages, profit & loss, time & work)
  Removed topics: Geometry and extensive modern math are no longer tested.

GMAT Verbal Reasoning Syllabus

The Verbal Reasoning section of the GMAT Focus Edition features 23 multiple-choice questions to be solved within a 45-minute time frame. This section is divided into two main areas: Critical Reasoning (CR) and Reading Comprehension (RC). It is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to understand written material, analyze logical relationships, and interpret ideas and arguments effectively.

1. Critical Reasoning (CR)

The Critical Reasoning component tests a candidate’s ability to analyze the structure of arguments, evaluate their strength, and identify underlying assumptions. Question types may involve:

• Strengthening or weakening arguments
• Identifying assumptions or conclusions
• Evaluating cause-and-effect relationships
• Completing arguments logically
• Formulating or assessing plans of action
  

2. Reading Comprehension (RC)

The Reading Comprehension section measures how well candidates can interpret, analyze, and draw inferences from written passages. Passages may vary in length and complexity and can be drawn from subjects such as business, social sciences, or natural sciences. Key skills assessed include:

• Identifying the main idea and purpose of the passage
• Understanding supporting details and evidence
• Drawing inferences and recognizing implied meanings
• Analyzing the logical structure of arguments
• Recognizing the tone and style of the author
• Applying information from the passage to new contexts

GMAT Data Insights Syllabus

The third section of the GMAT Focus Edition is Data Insights (DI), designed to test a candidate’s ability to interpret and evaluate data in various formats. It combines elements of the previous Integrated Reasoning and parts of the Quantitative section from earlier GMAT versions, making it both analytical and application-oriented.

• Data Sufficiency
  Tests the ability to examine a quantitative problem, identify the relevance of information, and determine whether the provided data is sufficient to solve the problem.
  
• Multi-Source Reasoning
  Involves analyzing data from multiple formats—such as text, tables, and graphics—to recognize discrepancies, draw inferences, and assess the relevance of information.
  
• Table Analysis
  Requires interpreting large sets of data organized in tables, filtering information, and identifying trends or insights.
  
• Graphics Interpretation
  Measures the ability to interpret data presented in visual formats such as scatter plots, bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, or statistical distributions, and then derive relationships or conclusions.
  
• Two-Part Analysis
  A versatile question type that may involve quantitative, verbal, or mixed reasoning. It requires solving problems with dual components, such as evaluating trade-offs, solving simultaneous equations, or identifying interdependent relationships.
  

Although this section is new in the GMAT Focus Edition, its question types are adapted from the older exam’s Integrated Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections. Candidates preparing for Data Insights should focus on the topics listed above as a guide.

A modern amalgamation of Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency:

• Data Sufficiency
• Multi-Source Reasoning (analyzing data across text, tables, graphics)
• Table Analysis
• Graphics Interpretation (charts, plots, tables)
• Two-Part Analysis (cross-section reasoning or complex problem-solving)

Key GMAT Syllabus Updates (Old vs. New)

GMAT Preparation Tips

• Understand the Exam Format Thoroughly - Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the structure, timing, and scoring of the GMAT Focus Edition. Unlike older versions, it has three sections only (Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights) and lasts just 2 hours 15 minutes. Knowing the number of questions and the time allocation per section helps you create a realistic pacing strategy.
• Create a Structured Study Plan - Instead of randomly practicing questions, design a 2–3 month plan that allocates specific time for each section. For example, dedicate Mondays and Wednesdays to Quant, Tuesdays and Thursdays to Verbal, and weekends to Data Insights and full-length mocks. A clear roadmap prevents burnout and ensures coverage of all topics.
• Use Official GMAT Resources - While third-party guides can be useful, the Official GMAT Guide, GMAT Focus Practice Exams, and mba.com resources are the most reliable. These provide the closest simulation of real questions, ensuring you practice the question style and difficulty level you’ll actually face.
• Take Mock Tests Under Real Exam Conditions - Simulate the exam by sitting for a full-length test without breaks or distractions. This builds stamina, improves concentration, and helps you adapt to the test’s pace. Aim to take at least 6–8 mocks before test day.
• Analyze Mistakes and Patterns - Simply practicing isn’t enough—track your errors. Are you struggling with algebra? Do you misinterpret CR arguments? Are you losing marks due to rushing? Categorize your mistakes (conceptual, careless, timing-related) and tackle them specifically.
  

Quantitative Reasoning Tips

• Revise Math Fundamentals
  The GMAT doesn’t test advanced calculus or trigonometry but focuses heavily on arithmetic and algebra. Brush up on topics like percentages, ratios, linear equations, and probability. Use school-level textbooks if necessary to build strong foundations.
  
• Learn Shortcuts for Faster Calculations
  Since calculators are not allowed in the Quant section, mental math is crucial. Practice fraction-to-decimal conversions, percentage tricks (e.g., 12% of 50 is 10% of 50 plus 2% of 50), and estimation techniques to save time.
• Master Data Sufficiency Questions
  These are unique to the GMAT and test logical reasoning rather than calculations. Practice identifying when information is sufficient, rather than solving fully. Example: “Is x > 0?” might only require analyzing conditions, not computing exact values.
• Practice Word Problems
  The exam often frames math in real-world scenarios (work rates, mixture problems, interest calculations). Develop the habit of translating word problems into equations quickly.
  

Verbal Reasoning Tips

• Develop Strong Reading Habits
  GMAT passages are dense, often on business, science, or humanities topics. Read editorials from newspapers like The Economist, Harvard Business Review, or Scientific American to build comprehension and adaptability to unfamiliar topics.
• Critical Reasoning Strategies
  For CR questions, always identify the conclusion, evidence, and assumption in an argument before answering. When strengthening or weakening, ask: What could change the conclusion? Practicing assumption-based logic helps handle even tricky questions.
• Reading Comprehension Techniques
  Avoid reading word-for-word. Instead, skim for the main idea, author’s tone, and passage structure. Make brief notes of key points in each paragraph. This prevents rereading and saves time during questions.
• Practice Inference-Based Questions
  Many RC questions ask “what can be inferred?” Focus on understanding what is implied but not directly stated. For example, if the passage says “Company X doubled profits despite declining sales,” an inference could be “profits increased due to cost-cutting.”
  

Data Insights Tips

• Get Comfortable with Graphs and Tables - Practice interpreting bar charts, scatter plots, and large datasets. The GMAT tests your ability to extract patterns quickly, not just crunch numbers.
• Multi-Source Reasoning Practice - These questions provide multiple documents, emails, or reports. Train yourself to compare information across formats and identify contradictions or overlaps. It’s similar to real-life business scenarios.
• Work on Two-Part Analysis Questions - These often combine quant and logic. Example: “If a company sells two products, what price combination maximizes profit?” These require structured problem-solving and time efficiency.
• Revise Basic Statistics - Topics like mean, median, standard deviation, and probability are frequent. You don’t need advanced stats, but comfort with interpreting trends and likelihoods is essential.
  

Time Management Strategies

• Pace Yourself - Each section gives about 1.5–2 minutes per question. If you’re stuck, make a strategic guess and move on instead of wasting precious time.
• Use the Flag-and-Review Feature - In the GMAT Focus Edition, you can flag questions and revisit them later. Use this wisely for questions you’re unsure about, but avoid flagging too many—review time is limited.
• Practice Sectional Timing - Instead of only full-length mocks, also practice 45-minute sectional tests. This helps you build speed and accuracy in individual sections.
• Stay Calm Under Pressure - Stress often leads to silly mistakes. Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, short pauses) during prep so you can apply them on exam day.