Question types and approach strategies for the GMAT Integrated Reasoning section (table analysis, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, multi-source reasoning). Front: the question type. Back: a strategy tip for approaching it.
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- Table Analysis: Sorting columns
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Click the column header to sort ascending or descending. Use this to group similar values and spot outliers quickly.- Table Analysis: Filtering rows
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The checkboxes let you hide rows. Filter to isolate relevant data and eliminate distractions while answering statements.- Table Analysis: Reading three statements
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Three statements must each be True, False, or Cannot determine. Evaluate each independently; do not assume a pattern across all three.- Table Analysis: Column header scanning
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Read every column label and unit before touching data. Units (dollars, percent, years) change how you compare values.- Table Analysis: Finding patterns
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After sorting or filtering, look for trends, correlations, or repeating ranges. A pattern often confirms the right statement.- Table Analysis: Elimination in statements
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If any part of a statement is false, the whole statement is false. Use edge cases and extreme values to disprove statements quickly.- Table Analysis: Data range checks
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Identify the minimum and maximum values in each column. Range-based statements often hinge on correctly spotting these extremes.- Table Analysis: Time per item
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Spend 2 to 3 minutes total on a table analysis question. Set a timer; do not get lost in sorting variations.- Graphics Interpretation: Reading axes
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Always read the x-axis, y-axis, and title first. Axes define scale, units, and what the graph actually measures.- Graphics Interpretation: Identifying graph type
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Recognize whether you are looking at a line graph, bar chart, scatter plot, or pie chart. The type determines what comparisons are fair.- Graphics Interpretation: Spotting trends
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Look for increases, decreases, and flat regions. A trend often answers the question before you read the exact numbers.- Graphics Interpretation: Using legends
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Match every color, shape, and line style to its legend entry. A misread legend leads to comparing the wrong data sets.- Graphics Interpretation: Scale awareness
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Non-zero baselines, breaks in axes, and logarithmic scales distort visual comparisons. Always trust the numbers, not your eye.- Graphics Interpretation: Comparing data points
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Use a ruler or straightedge on the screen to align bars or points with axis labels. Precision matters more than a visual guess.- Graphics Interpretation: Estimating values
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When exact values are not labeled, find the nearest grid line or tick mark and interpolate. Round to a sensible precision.
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