In many cases, when you encounter a GRE quant question that you’re having a hard time solving, it makes sense to try using estimation to solve it. You can use estimation to quickly determine whether an answer is reasonable. For example, if you had to multiply 4.17 by 199, you could estimate 4.17 to be 4 and 199 to be 200, and so your estimated answer would be 4 x 200 = 800. This estimate would allow you to include or exclude some of the answer choices. For example, if the answer choices were 8.30, 83, 830, and 8,300, then estimation would actually provide all the information needed for correctly answering the question.

Estimation is a great tool because it is a time-saver and a solid strategy for identifying blatantly wrong answers, as discussed in the next tip.

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep