GRE Data Interpretation Prep Tips

One of the three parts of the GRE is the Quantitative Reasoning section. This section includes questions that involve geometry, algebra, and basic arithmetic. It also challenges students with questions on data interpretation. GRE test-takers must examine a collection of data in order to answer these questions. Find out more about the data interpretation questions on the GRE here and learn some helpful tips on how to arrive at the correct answers. With our help, you can do your best on the test!

Data Interpretation Questions on the GRE

On the GRE, data interpretation problems feature many types of graphs, charts, diagrams, and tables. There are several questions that accompany each visual expression of data. The questions then delve into the different types of data revealed in the illustration. These math problems measure your ability to understand and interpret the information shown on a graph or chart. Not surprisingly, students who are familiar with many types of graphs and charts are likely to perform well on these questions.

Tips for Answering GRE Data Interpretation Questions

One helpful tip to use when solving data interpretation problems is to take 30 seconds or so to review the information in the graph, chart, table, or diagram. Be on the lookout for measurements, amounts, units, or other labels that can help in the process of interpreting the data. Also, look at what is being calculated – one graph may use percentages to convey data, while another uses dollar figures. This brief review of the details on a graph or chart can help guide you as you begin to consider the questions that follow.

Another tip is to estimate the numbers found in a chart or diagram in order to arrive at the correct answer. In some cases, amounts and other statistics may not be conveyed in round numbers – however, coming up with an estimate can lead a student to the correct answer. Eliminating answer options that are obviously wrong is another useful tip. This can be done after you mentally predict the answer. Narrowing down the number of possible answers can make GRE interpretation questions seem more manageable.

After choosing an answer, it’s a good idea to think about whether the answer fits logically with the data that has been presented. If not, you may want to mark the question and return to it later on in the test. Spending too much time on one puzzling question can prevent you from finishing the Quantitative Reasoning section in the allotted amount of time. Plus, it can help to take a few minutes to mull over a question before approaching it for the second time.

Studying for the Data Interpretation Questions on the GRE

Completing a few sets of practice math problems is the best way to prepare for the data interpretation questions in the Quantitative Reasoning section. A practice test can give you the opportunity to sample the types of data interpretation questions that they will encounter on the actual test. Also, the results of a practice test allow you to see where you need to improve.

Becoming familiar with different types of graphs, diagrams, and charts is another way to prepare for data interpretation questions on the GRE. GRE interpretation questions may contain bar graphs, line graphs, box plots, scatter plots, and circle graphs along with others. Having knowledge of these figures will give you the tools they need to interpret any set of data, regardless of how it’s presented.

At Varsity Tutors, we provide expert tutoring to students who are preparing for the GRE. Our professional instructors have all earned high scores on the exam, which means they are uniquely qualified to help students prepare for the test. Students can get the tools they need to ace data interpretation questions in online tutoring sessions and courses. Our instructors are there to answer your questions and give you some encouragement along the way.

We are proud to guide students toward their best scores on questions that involve data interpretation. GRE test-takers can rely on our tutoring services to assist them in preparing for these questions, along with all of the others on the exam. At Varsity Tutors, we combine superb tutoring with excellent study resources to provide students with top-quality GRE preparation. Contact our offices today!

Want to jump-start your GRE preparation? Check out our variety of GRE Course and Private Tutoring options.