A B C D E A B C D E
27.
a
b
c
d
e
need a larger or smaller answer. This is also a good strategy when you are unfamiliar with the informa-tion the problem is asking.■
When solving word problems, look at each phrase individually, then rewrite each in math language.This is very similar to creating and assigning variables, as addressed earlier in the word-problem sec-tion. In addition to identifying what is “known” and “unknown,” also take time to translate operationwords into actual symbols. It is best when working with a word problem to represent every part of it,phrase by phrase, in mathematical language.■
Make sure all the units are equal before you begin. This will save a great deal of time doing conversions.This is a very effective way to save time. Almost all conversions are easier to make at the beginning of aproblem rather than at the end. Sometimes a person can get so excited about getting an answer that heor she forgets to make the conversion at all, resulting in an incorrect answer. Making the conversions atthe start of the problem is definitely more advantageous for this reason.■
Draw pictures when solving word problems if needed. Pictures are always helpful when a word problemdoesn’t have one already, especially when the problem is dealing with a geometrical figure or location.Many students are also better at solving problems when they see a visual representation. Do not makethe drawings too elaborate; unfortunately, the GRE does not give points for artistic flair. A simple draw-ing, labeled correctly, is usually all it takes.■
Avoid lengthy calculations. It is seldom, if ever, necessary to spend a great deal of time doing calculations.This is a test of mathematical concepts, not calculations. If you find yourself doing a very complex, lengthycalculation—stop! Either you are not doing the problem correctly or you are missing a much easier solution.■
Be careful when solving Roman numeral problems. Roman numeral problems will give you several answerpossibilities that list a few different combinations of solutions. You will have five options:a,b,c,d, and e. Tosolve a Roman numeral problem, treat each Roman numeral as a true or false statement. Mark eachRoman numeral with a “T” or “F” on scrap paper, then select the answer that matches your “T’s” and “F’s.”These strategies will help you to do well on the GRE, but simply reading them will not.You must practice, prac-tice, and practice. That is why there are 80 problems in the following section for you to solve. Keep in mind that onthe actual GRE, you will only have 28 problems in the Quantitative section. By doing 80 problems now, it will seemeasy to do only 28 questions on the test. Keep this in mind as you work through the practice problems.Now the time has come for all of your studying to be applied; the practice problems are next. Good luck!