The new version of the GMAT, called GMAT Focus Edition, has started from November 7, 2023. The new GMAT is a 2-hour and 15-minute long exam, with one optional 10-minute break between any two sections. It is scored on a scale of 205-805 and comprises three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights (new).
The syllabus is further classified into various sub-sections of the GMAT i.e., Critical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension in the Verbal Section, Problem Solving in the Quant Section, and Data Sufficiency, Two-Part Analysis, Multi-Source Reasoning, Graphics Interpretation & Table Analysis in the Data insights section.
In this article, we will discuss the updated GMAT syllabus in detail, breaking down each section, covering what to study, difficulty level and how to go about it. We will also include sample questions for practical insights.
The best way to understand the GMAT Focus Syllabus & exam format is by trying the test out for yourself. Try Free GFE Mock now.
What is the New GMAT Syllabus 2024 ?
The GMAT Focus Syllabus includes three main sections: Verbal Reasoning (23 Questions), Quantitative Reasoning (21 Questions), and Data Insights (20 Questions), with 45-minute duration for each section:
Here’s a summary of each section:
1) Verbal Reasoning : It includes 23 multiple-choice questions on Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.
Update: Verbal section no longer contains Sentence Correction questions.
2) Quantitative Reasoning: It includes 21 multiple-choice questions on Problem-solving (Arithmetic & Algebra) and there will be no geometry question.
Update: Quant section no longer contains Data Sufficiency questions.
3) Data Insights (New) : This section has 20 questions that can be Data Sufficiency, Two-part analysis, Multi-source reasoning, Graphic interpretation, and Table analysis questions.
Here is the quick Summary of the GMAT Syllabus:
| Sections | No of Questions | Question types | Section duration |
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning | 45 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | Problem Solving, (Algebra and Arithmetic) | 45 minutes |
| Data Insights | 20 | Data Sufficiency, Multi-source Reasoning, Table Analysis, Graphics Interpretation, Two-Part Analysis | 45 minutes |
Create your Personalized Study Plan for the GMAT focus Edition. And reach your target score in the shortest possible time.
Now, let’s take a detailed look at each section of the GMAT Focus edition Syllabus:
1) GMAT Verbal Syllabus (Verbal Reasoning Section)
The Verbal Reasoning section assesses the test taker’s ability to read, comprehend written passages, and evaluate arguments.
“In the Verbal Reasoning section, test takers have 45 minutes to answer 23 questions.“
The questions within this section are primarily of two types: Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.
(I) Critical Reasoning
Critical Reasoning questions evaluate your capability to construct and analyze arguments and develop or assess action plans. Based on short passages, usually under 100 words, these questions ask you to choose an answer that either strengthens, weakens, or evaluates an argument. No specialized topic knowledge is needed.
Skills Tested in GMAT CR
The skills pertaining to reasoning that are tested by the GMAT Critical Reasoning are divided into four categories – Analysis, Construction, Critique, and Plan.
1) Analysis
Here, we need to analyse an argument. This involves understanding the logical reasoning/structure of the argument and the relationships between various parts of the argument.
2) Construction
Here, we are tested on our ability to construct solid arguments. For example – finding what can be logically concluded/inferred or finding what new information would be needed for the argument to hold true.
3) Critique
Here, we are tested on our ability to question the validity of arguments, identify how to strengthen or weaken arguments, identify the flaw in an argument, etc. In other words, we are critiquing a given argument.
4) Plan
Plan questions test our ability to construct and critique arguments pertaining to a plan of action. For example – a question may ask us to find the flaw in a plan, or maybe the underlying assumption for a plan to work. Plan questions, from a conceptual standpoint, are either construction questions or critique questions.
How to Build these Skills?
Here is the Solution! – Our course is structured to build your skills in a logical Sequence and in the shortest possible time. Try it now!
Sample Questions
Below are some sample questions for testing different skills, click on slider to see more questions:
Check this article for the solution.
For a detailed understanding of each CR question type, skills and sample practice questions, read our article “GMAT Critical Reasoning – What it tests and how to build these skills.
(II) Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension questions assess your ability to interpret the text, understand the logical connections between key points, draw inferences, and comprehend the evolution of quantitative ideas.
Mainly the test focuses on the following reading skills: identifying the main and supporting ideas, drawing inferences, applying information, understanding logical structure, and analyzing style.
Skills tested in GMAT RC
Skills measured in GMAT Reading Comprehension are tested through certain question types. We can divide these question types into the following broad and sub-categories:
- Primary question types
- Main point
- Detail/Supporting idea
- Inference
- Secondary question types
- Function
- Application
- Style and Tone
Here are the skills tested through each of these question types:
How to Build these Skills?
Here is the Solution! – Our course is structured to build your skills in a logical Sequence and in the shortest possible time. Try it now! And our New personalized study planner is designed to help you reach your target score in the shortest possible time.”
Sample Question
GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Question – Main Point
There are two theories that have been used to explain ancient and modern tragedy. Neither quite explains the complexity of the tragic process or the tragic hero, but each explains important elements of tragedy, and, because their conclusions are contradictory, they represent extreme views.
The first theory states that all tragedy exhibits the workings of external fate. Of course, the overwhelming majority of tragedies do leave us with a sense of the supremacy of impersonal power and of the limitation of human effort. But this theory of tragedy is an oversimplification, primarily because it confuses the tragic condition with the tragic process: the theory does not acknowledge that fate, in a tragedy, normally becomes external to the hero only after the tragic process has been set in motion. Fate, as conceived in ancient Greek tragedy, is the internal balancing condition of life. It appears as external only after it has been violated, just as justice is an internal quality of an honest person, but the external antagonist of the criminal. Secondarily, this theory of tragedy does not distinguish tragedy from irony. Irony does not need an exceptional central figure: as a rule, the more ignoble the hero the sharper the irony, when irony alone is the objective. It is heroism that creates the splendor and exhilaration that is unique to tragedy. The tragic hero normally has an extraordinary, often a nearly divine, destiny almost within grasp, and the glory of that original destiny never quite fades out of the tragedy.
The second theory of tragedy states that the act that sets the tragic process in motion must be primarily a violation of moral law, whether human or divine; in short, that the tragic hero must have a flaw that has an essential connection with sin. Again it is true that the great majority of tragic heroes do possess hubris, or a proud and passionate mind that seems to make the hero’s downfall morally explicable. But such hubris is only the precipitating agent of catastrophe, just as in comedy the cause of the happy ending is usually some act of humility, often performed by a noble character who is meanly disguised.
The primary purpose of the passage is to:
A. compare and criticize two theories of tragedy
B. develop a new theory of tragedy
C. summarize the thematic content of tragedy
D. reject one theory of tragedy and offer another theory in its place
E. distinguish between tragedy and irony
If you would like to try attempting some RC questions to get a feel for RC, check out our free trial now.
For a detailed understanding of each RC question type, skills and sample practice questions, read our article “ GMAT Reading Comprehension – What it tests” and “Tips to improve GMAT RC“.
2) GMAT Quant Syllabus (Quantitative Reasoning Section)
The Quant section of the GMAT evaluates your understanding of algebra and arithmetic fundamentals and your ability to apply this knowledge in problem-solving scenarios.
There are two major updates in the Quant Section in GMAT Focus Edition:
- Geometry questions have been eliminated from the Quant section.
- Data Sufficiency questions have been removed from the Quant Section and now will be asked in the Data Insights section.
“In the Quantitative Reasoning section, test takers have 45 minutes to answer 21 Problem-solving questions”.
Here is the GMAT Focus Quant syllabus (Problem Solving Questions):
| Arithmetic | Algebra |
| Multiples and Factors | Monomials, polynomials |
| Number Properties | Functions |
| Fractions | Exponents |
| Decimals | Quadratic equations |
| Percentage | Inequalities and basic statistics |
| Power and Roots | Algebraic expressions and equations |
| Average | Permutation and combination |
| Probability | Progressions |
| Set Theory | |
| Mixtures and allegations | |
| Ratio and proportion | |
| Descriptive Statistics | |
| Pipes, cisterns, and work time | |
| Speed, time, distance | |
| Simple and Compounded Interest |
Achieving a high Quant score requires a solid grasp of concepts and their application to solving questions. Here are some tips for scoring high in the GMAT Quant Section.
Remember, the GMAT isn’t about memorizing formulas; it’s about understanding concepts and applying them. While it’s necessary to remember certain formulas, understanding why they work and when to use them is more important. Make sure to spend enough time with each concept to fully grasp it before moving on to the next.
We recommend studying Quant and Verbal before Data Insights as Data Insights questions require using math and verbal concepts.
Prepare for the Focus Edition with the best GMAT Focus Mocks . We have provided a clear and concise comparison of GMAT Focus Mocks and explained the mocks algorithm.
Read our “GMAT Focus Edition series articles“- to learn more about the test.
3) GMAT Data Insights Section (New)
The Data Insights section is not an adjunct; it is an integral part of the exam. The inclusion of this section in GMAT reflects the increasing importance of data literacy and analytics in the business world. This section has equal weightage in the total GMAT score.
The New Data Insights section of the GMAT exam focuses on evaluating a test taker’s ability to analyze complex data and draw meaningful insights. This section assesses skills in data analysis, verbal reasoning, and math, which are essential for making informed decisions in a business management context.
“In the Data Insights section, test takers have 45 minutes to answer 20 questions. An on-screen calculator is available for this section.“
GMAT Focus Data Insights syllabus encompasses five types of questions:
Data Sufficiency:
Data Sufficiency questions assess the ability to determine whether the given data is sufficient to solve a particular problem. Test takers must evaluate the information provided and decide if it is enough to arrive at a definitive answer.
We recommend you to read below articles on Data Sufficiency:
Graphics Interpretation:
Test takers are presented with graphical representations such as charts or graphs. They must analyze and interpret the data visualizations to answer questions about trends, patterns, or relationships depicted in the graphics.
Table Analysis:
Test takers need to interpret and analyze data presented in tables in this question type. The questions may involve sorting data, identifying trends, or making comparisons based on the information provided.
We recommend you to read below articles:
Two-Part Analysis:
This question type requires test takers to solve problems that involve multiple steps or considerations. It assesses the ability to analyze a situation, apply relevant concepts, and arrive at the correct answer by considering various factors.
Multi-Source Reasoning:
This question type requires test takers to analyze information from multiple sources, including graphic, numeric, and textual data. It assesses the ability to identify relationships among various pieces of information and draw conclusions based on them.
Skills Tested:
The GMAT focus Data Insights section tests a variety of skills:
1. Data Interpretation and Analysis: It tests your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze complex information from varied sources.
2. Information Synthesis: This skill assesses your capability to combine different data points to create a comprehensive picture and determine the best problem-solving strategy.
3. Analytical Reasoning: Analytical reasoning examines your ability to scrutinize information and arguments and draw logical conclusions from data.
4. Quantitative Reasoning: Despite the lack of complex calculations, quantitative reasoning is key, particularly for understanding and applying quantitative aspects of data.
5. Critical Thinking: This is assessed through questions that require you to evaluate arguments or claims based on the presented data, testing your ability to critically assess information and make sound judgments.
6. Decision Making: This skill is tested through the application of all the above skills to make informed decisions or choices within a complex, data-rich context.
7. Comprehension: This skill is critical for combining textual and visual data effectively.
These skills are crucial not only for the GMAT but also in fields where data interpretation and analysis play key roles.
GMAT Syllabus Summary
Below is a quick summary of all the topics under GMAT Focus Edition syllabus 2024:
| GMAT Verbal | GMAT Quantitative | GMAT Data Insights |
| Pronoun | Fractions | Data Sufficiency |
| Assumptions | Decimals | Multi-source Reasoning |
| Subject-Verb Agreement | Number Properties | Graphics Interpretation |
| Modifiers | Percentage | Two-Part Analysis |
| Inference | Power and Roots | |
| Evaluate | Average | |
| Bold Face | Probability | |
| Idioms | Set Theory | |
| Parallelism | Multiples and Factors | |
| Comparison | Mixtures and allegations | |
| Verb Tenses | Ratio and proportion | |
| Paradox | Descriptive Statistics | |
| Strengthen and weaken | Pipes, cisterns, and work time | |
| Adjectives | Speed, time, distance | |
| Phrases and Clauses | Simple and Compounded Interest | |
| Nouns | Monomials, polynomials | |
| Idiomatic expressions | Functions | |
| Active voice | Exponents | |
| Passive voice | Quadratic equations | |
| Inequalities and basic statistics | ||
| Algebraic expressions and equations | ||
| Permutation and combination | ||
| Progressions |
How to study for GMAT Focus Edition
According to GMAC, the new GMAT Focus Edition aims to assess better “higher-order critical reasoning and data literacy” skills crucial for tomorrow’s business world. But what does that mean in practical terms?
In Practical Terms, Four key changes in the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus impact study requirements:
- It replaces the Integrated Reasoning section with Data Insights, which now accounts for a third of the exam and contributes equally to the total score.
- Sentence Correction questions are removed from the Verbal section.
- Geometry questions are removed from the Quant section.
- The Analytical Writing Assessment (essay) is eliminated.
While the Focus Edition requires some adjustments in preparation, much of the core material, such as Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning, remains consistent with the standard GMAT. The new Data Insights section includes question types from Integrated Reasoning, and test-takers still need to master problem-solving, Data Sufficiency, Critical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension to excel.
In summary, to excel in GMAT Focus, you’ll need strong skills in quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and data analysis, similar to those needed for the standard GMAT. While the content of your study might vary in certain aspects, your study approach will largely remain the same.
We recommend you to check out our in-depth article on the GMAT Focus Study Plan for a detailed understanding of how you should structure your GMAT focus preparation.
GMAT Focus Preparation Materials
Official GMAT prep resources, including the Official Guide for GMAT Focus (Official Guide 2023) and full-length practice tests, became available on mba.com on June 6, 2023. In addition, every e-GMATer can access an industry-leading GMAT Focus Course with 1000+ questions and free mock test , and it will help you understand the GMAT focus syllabus better through practice.
Read this article to understand about the GMAT Official Prep content – What is it & How to use it.
GMAT Focus prep resources offered by e-GMAT:
Here is the overview of the GMAT prep material offered by e-GMAT:
- Comprehensive GMAT Focus Materials: We’ve updated our courses with GMAT Focus Edition content, allowing existing students to access these new resources without extra costs, ensuring continuity in quality education and support.
- Data Insights (Scholaranium) : In our continuous effort to provide you with unparalleled preparation material, DI Scholaranium brings to you a whopping 350 questions, each meticulously crafted and paired with solutions, dedicated to data insights. This is in addition to the existing 500 questions available in the DI course, summing up to a total of 850 original questions.
- GMAT Focus Mocks : We at e-GMAT are immensely proud to announce a groundbreaking advancement in GMAT preparation with the launch of our GMAT Focus Edition mocks., developed from extensive research and simulations, these mocks promise to deliver a test experience that closely mirrors the actual exam.
- Personalized Study Planner : We have created the data-driven Personalized Study Planner for the GMAT Focus Edition, offering customized study schedules, performance forecasts, and trackable goals to effectively navigate the updated exam demands.
Can I choose my own section order on the new GMAT Focus Edition?
Yup! You can do the three sections (Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights) in any order you’d like.
Conclusion – GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus
Navigating the GMAT Focus Edition may initially seem daunting, but understanding its syllabus and content is the first step to mastering the exam. This article has provided a comprehensive overview of the GMAT Focus Edition syllabus, highlighting key changes in question types and sections.
With the right preparation materials and a solid study plan, achieving a competitive score is entirely within reach. We have outlined valuable resources.
To delve deeper into your preparation strategy, we highly recommend our in-depth GMAT Focus Study Plan article. With the right preparation, you’re not just getting ready for an exam; you’re setting the stage for a successful business career. Good luck on your GMAT Focus journey!
Ready to tackle the GMAT Focus Edition? e-GMAT offers a Personalized Study Planner and top-notch Free GFE mock exam to help you prepare effectively. As the most reviewed GMAT prep company on GMAT Club with 2600+ reviews we’re here to support your GFE journey. Take advantage of our free trial with the best quality content. Start your path to success today!
FAQs – GMAT Focus Edition Syllabus
There are Four key changes in the Focus Edition Syllabus:
1) It replaces the Integrated Reasoning section with Data Insights, which now accounts for a third of the exam and contributes equally to the total score.
2) Sentence Correction questions are removed from the Verbal section.
3) Geometry questions are removed from the Quant section.
4) The Analytical Writing Assessment (essay) is eliminated.
GMAT focus edition will test you on three sections :
1) Verbal – 45 Minutes to solve 23 questions
2) Quant – 45 Minutes to solve 21 questions
3) Data Insights – 45 minutes to solve 20 questions
The time duration of the GMAT focus edition is 2 hours 15 minutes.
You CANNOT skip any of the GMAT sections. A section is complete only if you answer every question, or you run out of time for that section.
Firstly, breaks are optional. If you don’t want a break, you can skip it and move on to the next section. In case you want a break, you can take one optional 10-minute break between any two sections.
