GMAT Integrated Reasoning Preparation Tips: How to Improve GMAT Integrated Reasoning Score

GMAT

Aishwarya
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Nov 23, 2024 23:55 IST
The Integrated Reasoning section consists of four question types, which require you to analyze data in different formats and from multiple sources. Questions might contain quantitative data, however, it is not a quantitative skills test. An online calculator having basic functionality may be available, but not necessary for this section. One canno

Applicants must note that the Integrated Reasoning section was tested on the previous GMAT Edition. The current GMAT Edition (11th) or commonly referred to as GMAT Focus does not test applicants on the Integrated Reasoning section. However, the topics tested on Integrated Reasoning still form a part of the Data Insights section on GMAT Focus. 

To succeed in the business world, you’ll need to analyze information from a variety of sources, develop strategies and make decisions from that information. Integrated reasoning section of GMAT is meant to measure your ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats, from multiple sources – skills you already use, and skills you need to succeed in this data-rich world.

  • Time: 30 minutes
  • Format: 12 questions
  • Tests: Table Analysis, Graphics Analysis, Two-Part Analysis, and Multi-Source Reasoning

The Integrated Reasoning section consists of four question types, which require you to analyze data in different formats and from multiple sources.

  • Graphics Interpretation - Interpret the graph or graphical image and select the option from a list to make the answer statements accurate.
  • Two-Part Analysis - Select one answer from each column to solve a problem with a two-part solution. Possible answers will be presented in a table with a column for each part.
  • Table Analysis - Sort the table to organize the data so you can determine whether certain conditions are met. Each question will have statements with opposing answers. Select one answer for each statement.
  • Multi-Source Reasoning - Click on the page to reveal different data and recognize which data you need to answer the question.

Here are the current percentile rankings for the 1 to 8 IR scoring scale:

Percentile

 Score

92%

 8

81%

 7

67%

 6

52%

 5

37%

 4

24%

 3

12%

 2

0%

 1

Table of contents
  • GMAT IR: Skills Measured
  • GMAT IR Questions: Things you should know
  • GMAT IR Tips: Graphics Interpretation
  • GMAT IR Tips: Table Analysis
  • GMAT IR Tips: Two-Part Analysis
  • GMAT IR Tips: Multi-Source Reasoning
  • GMAT IR Tips: Guidelines
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GMAT IR: Skills Measured

  • Analyzing information presented in graphics, text, and numbers
  • Assimilating relevant information from different sources
  • Organizing information to see relationships, to solve multiple interrelated problems
  • Combining information to solve complex problems that depend on information from one or more sources 

GMAT IR Questions: Things you should know

The Integrated Reasoning section involves questions from both Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning separately or mixed. Some of the questions require more than one response.

  • All answer choices for a single question are presented on the same screen
  • Submit responses to all parts before moving to the next question
  • Answer all parts of a single question correctly, so, you receive credit. As no partial credit is given
  • One cannot go back and change the answer after answering a question
  • Some questions may include a set of data or a graphic. In case you answer a question incorrectly then it does not mean that all other questions of the same pattern will be incorrect
  • Questions might contain quantitative data, however, it is not a quantitative skills test. An online calculator having basic functionality may be available, but not necessary for this section.

 

GMAT IR Tips: Graphics Interpretation

Graphics interpretation question require a candidate to answer questions that are accompanied with charts and graphs.

  • Candidate must read the text carefully
  • Do not lose sight of the units of measurement
  • You must practice the art of finding relationships between the data that has been presented
  • Be careful about absolute increase/ decrease, percentage increase/ decrease, trends, correlation, etc.

GMAT IR Tips: Table Analysis

These questions are presented with a data set in a table that you can sort by column. Answers will be a set of statements having two opposing answer options either in Yes/No or True/False.

  • Examine the table and the text to get the type of given information
  • Go through the question carefully to determine the data analysis required and know the choice you have to make
  • Check whether the given condition can be met

GMAT IR Tips: Two-Part Analysis

In these questions, a brief scenario or problem and you have to select two answer choices related to the data. The answer choices will be connected to each other in some or another way.

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  • Go through the information carefully that may include verbal, quantitative content, or a combination of both. Even if you are familiar with the subject matter, make sure it does not influence your response. Also, use only the data presented in the question.
  • Check what exactly is the question is asking. At times, the response columns do not have enough details that can help you understand what you need to do.
  • Review the choices available before deciding the answer. Check whether the tasks are dependent or independent. Few questions have two tasks that can be handled individually while others may have one task with two dependent parts.
  • Make sure that the same answer choice is the correct response for both columns. One answer option may be true for both the response columns.

GMAT IR Tips: Multi-Source Reasoning

In Multi-Source Reasoning question, there are 2-3 tabs where the data is provided in the form of text/ table/ graph. Other half of the screen will have the corresponding question (MCQ, Yes/ No, True/ False, etc.)

  • Quickly go through the data and then read the question. This will help you save time since you know where to look for the data
  • You can follow RC strategy of summarizing the content
  • You can divide your rough paper into 2-3 columns and summarize the data over there

GMAT IR Tips: Guidelines

 Here are some tips to guide you through this new section of GMAT exam:

  • Sharpen your time management skills to make sure you attempt all the questions and sub-questions.
  • Write down notes of each tab as it will help you keep track of the volumes of information in multi-source reasoning.
  • For table analysis questions, don’t waste a lot of time reading the introductory paragraph. Instead jump to the question and table immediately because everything you need comes from the table.
  • Very carefully read the introductory paragraph of the two-part analysis questions.
  • Look at the answer options in the menu for graphics interpretation questions before you start analyzing the question.
  • Check the value of each increment on the axes of bar and line graphs so you calculate accurately.
  • Prepare yourself for the online calculator by practicing with the calculator installed on your computer.

Also Read:

About GMAT Exam

GMAT Registration

GMAT Exam Dates

GMAT Syllabus

GMAT Scores

GMAT Preparation Tips

Q:   Which month is best for GMAT exam?
A:

As such there is no particular preference for choosing the best month to appear for GMAT exam. It is up to the applicants to choose a relevant GMAT exam date based on their admission intakes abroad and regster accordingly. Those who wish to submit GMAT scores for Fall intake should register for July-August months. While those applying for Spring intakes can appear for the exam in September-December months. It is completely up to the students because they need time to prepare and select an apt GMAT exam date. 

Q:   How long does it take to prepare for GMAT?
A:

You can prepare for the exam in six to eight months depending on your ability. Make sure that you understand GMAT pattern and syllabus. You must start with GMAT official study material. You must also appear for GMAT mock tests every week.

The length of the preparation will vary person to person. While some may take longer time the others may take lesser time. So there is no one concrete answer to how long it will take to prepare for GMAT.

Q:   What is the admission process for international students at University of Manchester?
A:

The application process at the University of Manchester can change depending on course chosen and level of study. The steps to apply for undergraduate and postgraduate courses at the university are given as follows:

UG Application Process:

  • Student must apply through the UCAS common application portal.
  • They can go to the website and select the course that they are interested in.
  • Students are required to meet the eligibility requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
  • Once they have decided on the course, the important documents are to be submitted such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
  • You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
  • Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
  • The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.

Check out:  tips to improve your SOP

PG application process: 

  • Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
  • Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
  • Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
  • Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
  • If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester. 

To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application. 

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About the Author
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Written by
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert
Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i Read Full Bio
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