As you know, the GRE is a timed exam, meaning that when you’re attacking problems, every second counts! A great way to save time on GRE quant is to memorize as many formulas, concepts, and procedures as possible. I can’t stress enough how important memorization is as one of your main problem-solving strategies.

For example, if you see an average rate question, you need to quickly utilize the formula average rate = (total distance)/(total time). Or, if you see a question involving the difference of squares, you need to be able to quickly use the formula (x + y)(x – y) = x^2 – y^2. These are just a couple of examples, but I think you get the point!

A great way to memorize all of these formulas is to create a set of flashcards. Essentially, whenever you come across a formula you think you should know, put it on a flashcard! That way, by test day, you won’t need to waste time trying to recall a needed formula.


The GRE quant section contains four major question types, and one of the more challenging types is Quantitative Comparison questions (QC). QC questions present two quantities, Quantity A and Quantity B. You must determine whether there is a consistent relationship between the two.

One great thing about Quantitative Comparison questions is that the answer choices are always the same. Thus, you’ll want to memorize these answer choices to save time answering these questions. Remember, every second counts!


A question I am asked often is, “What are the quant topics that are most likely to appear on my GRE?” Unfortunately, any honest GRE professional will tell you that there is no way to know exactly what will show up on your exam. It does not matter if you have hyper-analyzed every official GRE practice test or even memorized what you saw on previous GREs. The fact is, every GRE is unique, and no one can tell you with certainty what will show up on any given exam.

So, rather than trying to game the system by predicting what you might see, get rock solid with all GRE quant topics, so that you won’t be spinning a roulette wheel on test day.

Remember, there are only 40 quant questions on the GRE (20 questions per section). Thus, you have just 40 opportunities for GRE quant success. So, if you decide to skip a couple of major GRE quant topics during your prep, and 10 questions on those topics show up, then you will be in a tough spot on test day.

Reach out to me with any questions.

Warmest regards,
Scott