A question I get repeatedly is, “What Quant topics should I focus on the most for the GRE?” It is a reasonable question. After all, if we could identify a few high-yield topics and just focus on those, GRE prep would feel much simpler. But here is the reality: no matter how many official practice exams you review or how many test-takers you speak with, you cannot predict exactly which topics will appear on your exam. This applies fully to the current GRE format.

The GRE is intentionally designed to be unpredictable. Each exam is a new combination of question types, concepts, and difficulty levels. If you try to narrow your prep based on what you hope might appear, you are taking a risk. A smarter approach is to prepare comprehensively and be ready for anything the test presents. That way, no matter which mix of questions comes up, you can approach them confidently.

Keep in mind, GRE Quant gives you just 27 questions per section, and these questions collectively cover the full range of tested concepts. If you skip major topics in your prep and they appear on test day, you have no safety net. You cannot rely on guessing or shortcuts. Thorough preparation across all Quant topics remains the most reliable path to success.

The lesson is clear. The GRE rewards respect and preparation, not attempts to outsmart it. Cover everything. Build your skills across all areas. That is how you maximize your score under the current GRE format.

Reach out to me with any questions about your GRE prep. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep