Your Guide to Scoring 700+ on the GMAT

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a globally recognized standardized exam that plays a crucial role in business school admissions. Accepted by over 7,000 graduate management programs across more than 2,300 institutions worldwide, the GMAT is a key indicator of academic readiness for MBA and other business-focused graduate degrees.

Why the GMAT Matters

The GMAT isn’t just another test—it’s a comprehensive assessment of your ability to succeed in a rigorous, fast-paced academic environment. Business schools use GMAT scores to evaluate how well a candidate can:

• Think critically and analytically
  
• Interpret complex data
  
• Solve quantitative problems
  
• Communicate clearly and logically

For admissions committees, GMAT scores provide a standardized benchmark to compare applicants from diverse educational, cultural, and professional backgrounds. For applicants, a high GMAT score can demonstrate competence, commitment, and competitiveness, sometimes tipping the scales in your favor during the admissions process.

How GMAT Scores Are Used in Admissions

Many schools publish the average GMAT scores of admitted students, giving prospective applicants a clear benchmark. For example:

• Top-tier programs (like Harvard, Stanford, Wharton) may report average scores around 720–740.
  
• Mid-tier programs might accept scores in the 600–700 range.

A strong GMAT score can:

• Compensate for a low GPA or less traditional background
  
• Boost your application if your undergraduate institution is less well-known.
  
• Increase eligibility for scholarships or merit-based financial aid

However, the GMAT is just one piece of the puzzle. Business schools also consider work experience, academic transcripts, personal essays, recommendations, and interviews. But make no mistake—your GMAT score can be a powerful differentiator.

GMAT Format: What to Expect

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, which means the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. The test includes four main sections:

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

• Time: 30 minutes
  
• Task: Write an essay analyzing the reasoning in a given argument
  
• Skills tested: Critical thinking, logical structure, writing clarity
  
• Scoring: 0–6 (half-point increments), scored by a human and an AI engine

This section isn’t about giving your opinion. Instead, you’re expected to critique the logic behind an argument, highlighting assumptions, flaws, or unsupported conclusions.

2. Integrated Reasoning (IR)

• Time: 30 minutes
  
• Questions: 12 multi-part questions
  
• Skills tested: Data interpretation, multi-source reasoning, graphic analysis
  
• Scoring: 1–8

The IR section evaluates how well you can analyze information from different sources (like charts, tables, and text) and draw actionable conclusions. It’s highly relevant in today’s data-driven business world.

3. Quantitative Reasoning (Quant)

• Time: 62 minutes
  
• Questions: 31 multiple-choice questions
  
• Skills tested: Problem solving, data sufficiency, arithmetic, algebra, geometry
  
• Scoring: Contributes to total score (200–800 scale)

You don’t need advanced math knowledge, but you do need to apply logical thinking quickly and accurately. Data Sufficiency questions are especially unique to the GMAT—they test whether you have enough information to solve a problem, not necessarily the answer itself

4. Verbal Reasoning

• Time: 65 minutes
  
• Questions: 36 multiple-choice questions
  
• Skills tested: Reading comprehension, critical reasoning, sentence correction
  
• Scoring: Contributes to total score (200–800 scale)

This section measures your ability to understand complex texts, evaluate arguments, and fix grammatical errors. It’s less about vocabulary and more about clarity, logic, and precision.

Computer-Adaptive Testing: How It Works

Both the Verbal and Quant sections are computer-adaptive. Here’s what that means:

• You start with a medium-difficulty question.
  
• If you answer correctly, the next question is harder.
  
• If you answer incorrectly, the next question is easier.
  
• You cannot skip or return to questions.
  

This format allows the GMAT to assess your skill level more precisely, but it also means time management and accuracy are crucial. Every question counts.

Scoring Breakdown

• Total Score (200–800): Based on Quant and Verbal sections only
  
• AWA Score (0–6): Separate score
  
• IR Score (1–8): Separate score

While schools often focus on your total score, strong performance in individual sections—especially Quant—can be important for programs with heavy analytical components.

Is the GMAT Right for You?

The GMAT is especially valuable for applicants who:

• Are applying to top business schools
  
• Have non-quantitative undergraduate backgrounds
  
• Want to prove analytical or verbal strengths.
  
• Are seeking merit-based scholarships
  
• Plan to apply to several programs.

Some schools also accept the GRE, but the GMAT remains the gold standard for MBA admissions. Many admissions consultants recommend taking the GMAT if you’re certain about business school, particularly if you’re aiming high.

Timing: When to Take the GMAT

GMAT scores are valid for five years. Most applicants take the exam six to twelve months before their target application deadlines. This allows time for:

• Retaking the exam if needed
  
• Improving weak areas
  
• Aligning with round 1 deadlines (usually in the fall)

Early preparation gives you flexibility and peace of mind.

The GMAT is more than a test; it’s an opportunity to showcase your strengths in reasoning, logic, and problem-solving. For many, it can make the difference between getting accepted or waitlisted, or even securing scholarships and leadership program invites.

In this series, we’ll dive deep into strategies for mastering the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Integrated Reasoning (IR) sections, including how to analyze arguments, synthesize data, and avoid common mistakes.

Mastering the AWA and Integrated Reasoning Sections of the GMAT

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Integrated Reasoning (IR) sections are often underestimated during GMAT preparation. While the Quantitative and Verbal sections contribute directly to your total score, a strong performance in AWA and IR can significantly enhance your profile, especially if you’re applying to analytically rigorous programs. This article focuses on mastering these two sections—what they test, how to prepare, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

The AWA section consists of a single 30-minute writing task. Your job is to analyze the reasoning behind an argument presented in a brief paragraph. The task is not to agree or disagree with the position, but to assess the quality of the argument itself.

What the AWA Tests

This section evaluates your ability to:

• Understand an argument’s structure
  
• Identify logical flaws or unwarranted assumptions.
  
• Present a coherent critique.e
  
• Organize ideas clearly and effectively.
  
• Use proper grammar and vocabulary.y

Your essay will be scored on a scale from 0 to 6 in half-point increments. It’s graded by both a human reader and a computer algorithm.

Approach to the AWA Task

A strong AWA essay generally follows a clear structure:

• Introduction: Summarize the argument and state your thesis (e.g., that the argument is flawed due to XYZ reasons).
  
• Body Paragraphs: Present 2–3 clear critiques, each supported by analysis or examples. Focus on weak assumptions, lack of evidence, or questionable logic.
  
• Conclusion: Briefly summarize your main points and reinforce your evaluation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Simply agreeing or disagreeing with the conclusion (this misses the point of the task)
  
• Repeating the argument instead of analyzing it
  
• Poor organization and unclear transitions
  
• Neglecting grammar and sentence structure

AWA Preparation Tips

• Practice with real GMAT prompts from previous tests
  
• Use templates to structure your response, but customize the content.
  
• Learn to quickly identify assumptions and flaws in short arguments.
  
• Time yourself to complete essays within 30 minutes

Even if you’re a strong writer, practicing under test conditions is essential. Business schools may review your essay to evaluate your communication skills, especially if your other application materials suggest a different writing level.

Integrated Reasoning (IR)

The Integrated Reasoning section measures your ability to evaluate and synthesize information from multiple sources and formats. This reflects the skills you’ll use in real-world business situations—interpreting spreadsheets, charts, text, and tables to make informed decisions.

Overview of IR

• Duration: 30 minutes
  
• Questions: 12 multi-part questions
  
• Score: 1–8
  
• Question Types:
  
  • Multi-Source Reasoning
    
  • Table Analysis
    
  • Graphics Interpretation
    
  • Two-Part Analysis

Each question may have multiple parts that must all be answered correctly to receive credit—there’s no partial scoring.

Question Types Explained

Multi-Source Reasoning

You’ll review information from different tabs (texts, tables, emails, etc.) and then answer questions based on all of them. The challenge lies in synthesizing information from multiple perspectives quickly and accurately.

Strategy:

• Skim all tabs first to understand the structure
  
• Return to specific tabs as needed to answer each question.
  
• Avoid assumptions—use only the information provided

Table Analysis

You’ll be presented with a sortable table and need to determine whether certain statements meet specified conditions.

Strategy:

• Read the instructions carefully to understand the sorting rules.
  
• Use sorting features to isolate relevant data.
  
• Don’t overanalyze—stick to the specific data asked

Graphics Interpretation

You’ll analyze a chart or graph and complete fill-in-the-blank questions related to it.

Strategy:

• Study the axes and units first
  
• Understand what the chart is measuring.
  
• Eliminate answers that contradict the visual data

Two-Part Analysis

You’re asked to solve complex problems with two components—logical reasoning, math, or both.

Strategy:

• Carefully read the stem to understand both parts
  
• Answer both correctly to get full credit.
  
• Don’t rush—precision is key.y

Integrated Reasoning Preparation Tips

Practice Realistic IR Questions

This section is unique to the GMAT, and mastering it requires exposure to real IR question types. Practice with official test questions or simulations that include:

• Dynamic tables
  
• Visual charts
  
• Multi-tab documents

Learn to Interpret Complex Data

Don’t just solve problems—learn how to navigate data:

• Interpret trends
  
• Find patterns
  
• Judge relationships between data points
  
• Eliminate irrelevant information

Manage Your Time

Each IR question involves multiple parts and data sets. Don’t spend too much time on any single part. Prioritize accuracy, but also keep an eye on the clock. Practice pacing as rigorously as you do for Quant and Verbal sections.

Integrated Reasoning: Why It Matters

Although the IR score is separate from your total GMAT score, top MBA programs increasingly look at this section to evaluate a candidate’s business acumen. A high IR score demonstrates:

• Proficiency with data
  
• Decision-making ability under time pressure
  
• The ability to connect information from diverse sources

Candidates targeting analytics-heavy MBA programs, such as those in finance, consulting, or tech, should take the IR section seriously. It may not be the make-or-break factor, but a poor performance can raise red flags.

While AWA and Integrated Reasoning may not carry as much weight as the Quant and Verbal sections in your composite score, they are far from irrelevant. Both sections assess skills that are vital in graduate-level business education and the professional world beyond.

Neglecting these sections is a mistake. Business schools increasingly value well-rounded applicants—those who not only solve equations but also communicate effectively and analyze multifaceted data sources. Treat AWA and IR with the attention they deserve, and they can help differentiate you from candidates who overlook them.

We’ll turn our attention to the Quantitative Reasoning section, breaking down both Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency, and sharing detailed strategies to improve your score and time management.

Mastering Quantitative Reasoning for the GMAT: Strategies for Success

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GMAT is designed to assess your ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate information using mathematical and reasoning skills. This part of the exam challenges test takers to solve problems and make decisions using quantitative methods, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. A solid performance here can significantly boost your overall score, especially if you’re aiming for a 700+.

Success in Quantitative Reasoning isn’t about solving every problem — it’s about solving enough of them accurately and efficiently. In this part of the series, we’ll break down what you need to know and provide specific strategies and tips to help you manage time, improve accuracy, and strengthen your mathematical thinking.

Understanding the Structure of Quantitative Reasoning

This section of the GMAT includes 31 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 62 minutes. The two primary question types are:

• Problem Solving: Standard math problems that require logic and math knowledge.
  
• Data Sufficiency: Unique GMAT-style questions where the goal is not to solve the problem, but to determine whether the provided data is sufficient to answer the question.

Both question types require strong foundational knowledge in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and word problems.

Key Strategies for Problem Solving

Focus on Conceptual Understanding

Before solving any quantitative problem, it’s essential to fully understand the concepts behind the questions. You don’t need advanced math knowledge — just a firm grasp of high school-level mathematics. Core topics include:

• Fractions, decimals, percentages
  
• Ratios and proportions
  
• Algebraic expressions and equations
  
• Inequalities
  
• Geometry: lines, angles, triangles, circles, coordinate planes
  
• Word problems involving work, speed, and mixtures

Understanding how these concepts appear in different question types is the foundation of your strategy.

Don’t Just Solve — Think Strategically

The best test takers don’t just “do the math.” They approach problems with a strategic mindset. For example:

• Backsolving: Plugging in the answer choices to see which one works can be faster than solving algebraically.
  
• Picking Numbers: For abstract problems, try substituting values to simplify.
  
• Elimination: Even if you can’t solve the cit completely, eliminate wrong choices to increase your odds.

These strategies help manage time and reduce mental fatigue.

Use Estimation and Approximation

Exact answers are not always necessary. Often, approximating values can save time and still get you to the correct answer, especially when dealing with fractions, percentages, or roots. Estimation is especially helpful when the answer choices are far apart.

Time Management in Quantitative Reasoning

Time pressure is one of the biggest challenges in the GMAT Quant section. To overcome this:

• Aim to spend about 2 minutes per question.
  
• Track your pacing at checkpoints: for example, after 10 questions, about 20 minutes should have passed.
  
• Don’t get stuck on a single question. If you’ve spent over 2.5 minutes and still don’t see a path, make your best educated guess and move on.
  
• Use scratch paper efficiently. Organize your work so you can check it if needed.

Practicing under timed conditions is crucial. Use full-length practice exams to simulate real test pressure.

Mastering Data Sufficiency

Data Sufficiency questions are unique to the GMAT and can be tricky at first. These questions consist of a problem followed by two statements. Your task is to determine whether the information in each statement — alone or together — is sufficient to answer the question.

Answer choices are always the same:

• (A) Statement 1 alone is sufficient, but Statement 2 alone is not.
  
• (B) Statement 2 alone is sufficient, but Statement 1 alone is not.
  
• (C) Both statements together are sufficient, but neither alone is.
  
• (D) Each statement alone is sufficient.
  
• (E) Even together, the statements are not sufficient.

Key Techniques for Data Sufficiency

1. Focus on sufficiency, not solving. Your goal is not to calculate a final value — it’s to determine if you could solve it.
   
2. Consider each statement independently first. Always evaluate Statement 1 on its own, then Statement 2. Only combine if needed.
   
3. Avoid assumptions. Stick strictly to what’s provided. Don’t assume anything not explicitly stated.
   
4. Use numbers wisely. For variable-based questions, test extreme values (positive, negative, zero, fractions) to check if a statement works in all cases.
   
5. Practice the logic. Because Data Sufficiency is more about reasoning than calculation, practicing this format helps you recognize common patterns and traps.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Misreading Questions

GMAT questions often include subtle wording or layered logic. Always read questions carefully. Misreading just one word can lead to an incorrect assumption.

Over-calculating

Sometimes you can solve a problem more easily using logic or estimation rather than performing long calculations. Don’t waste time doing more math than necessary.

Ignoring Units or Labels

Many problems involve units, such as miles per hour or cost per item. Pay attention to what the question is asking for, and convert units if needed.

Getting Trapped by Familiarity

Some questions may look like problems you’ve seen before, but have twists in logic. Don’t rush. Take time to verify that your chosen approach fits the current problem.

Strengthening Core Quant Skills

If you’re struggling with specific areas like number properties or algebra, it’s important to go back and review the fundamentals. Build your confidence gradually:

• Review formulas and rules — e.g., area, perimeter, simple and compound interest, combinations, and permutations.
  
• Practice with easy and medium-level questions first to reinforce concepts.
  
• Use error logs to track your mistakes and understand your weak areas.
  
• Revisit difficult topics frequently until they become second nature.

Customized Practice and Drills

Your study plan should reflect your specific weaknesses. Use analytics from practice tests or question banks to identify areas where you frequently make mistakes.

• Create timed mini-drills (e.g., 5 data sufficiency questions in 10 minutes).
  
• Review each question carefully, especially the ones you got wrong or guessed correctly.
  
• Keep a journal of mistakes, question types, and what you misunderstood.

This approach helps you target the exact areas that need improvement and speeds up your path to a higher score.

Quantitative Reasoning and a 700+ GMAT Score

If your target score is 700 or above, your performance in Quantitative Reasoning must be strong, typically in the 45–50 range out of 60. This doesn’t mean getting every question right, but rather maximizing accuracy on medium and hard questions while avoiding careless errors on easier ones.

Here’s how high scorers treat the Quant section:

• They don’t panic when a question seems difficult — they look for smart solving paths or make fast, informed guesses.
  
• They know their limits — they manage time so they don’t spend 5 minutes on one problem and rush through the rest.
  
• They understand patterns — recognizing what kind of question is being asked helps them jump into the best solving method quickly.

The GMAT Quantitative Reasoning section is as much about strategic thinking as it is about math skills. While content mastery is important, success comes from knowing how to apply concepts quickly and accurately under pressure. Whether you’re just beginning your GMAT prep or fine-tuning your strategy for test day, remember that improvement in Quant is entirely achievable through focused, consistent practice.

Cracking the Verbal Reasoning Section of the GMAT

Verbal Reasoning is one of the most underestimated yet decisive sections of the GMAT. For many test-takers aiming to score 700 and above, mastering this section can be the key to pushing their overall score into the elite range. The Verbal section measures your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English.

In this series, we’ll break down the structure of the Verbal section, discuss each question type in depth, and explore key strategies to help you perform with precision and confidence.

Overview of Verbal Reasoning

The Verbal section contains 36 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 65 minutes. It consists of three question types:

• Reading Comprehension: Tests your ability to understand and analyze written passages.
  
• Critical Reasoning: Assesses your ability to evaluate arguments and make logical conclusions.
  
• Sentence Correction: Challenges your grasp of grammar, clarity, and effective writing.

The questions are integrated into a single section — they are not grouped by type, so you may jump from a Critical Reasoning question to a Sentence Correction question, then back to Reading Comprehension.

Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension on the GMAT includes short and long passages on a variety of topics: business, science, social sciences, and humanities. Each passage is followed by 3–4 questions that test your understanding of the text.

What’s Being Tested

• Understanding the main idea and purpose of a passage
  
• Identifying supporting ideas and examples
  
• Drawing inferences or conclusions
  
• Evaluating the structure, tone, and logic of the text

Core Strategies

1. Skim for Structure, Not Detail
Don’t try to memorize everything. Read actively and focus on structure: What’s the main idea? What’s each paragraph doing? Who’s making what argument?

2. Use Passage Mapping
Make mental or brief written notes about the flow of ideas. This helps you locate details quickly when answering questions.

3. Tackle Questions Strategically
Read the question stem carefully before going back to the passage. For detailed questions, find the relevant section of the text. For inference or tone questions, think critically — don’t assume beyond what’s written.

4. Avoid Outside Knowledge
Stick strictly to the information provided in the passage. Even if you’re familiar with the topic, don’t let prior knowledge affect your choices.

5. Eliminate Wrong Answers
Wrong answers often include extreme language, distortions of the passage, or irrelevant points. Use this to your advantage to eliminate confidently.

Critical Reasoning

Critical Reasoning questions test your ability to analyze arguments, identify assumptions, and make logical evaluations. Each question begins with a brief argument or set of statements, followed by a question and five answer choices.

Common Question Types

• Strengthen or weaken the argument.
  
• Identify assumptions
  
• Identify conclusions
  
• Evaluate arguments
  
• Resolve a paradox
  
• Draw inferences

Core Strategies

1. Identify the Conclusion and Premises
Read carefully and determine the main conclusion of the argument. What evidence supports it? This helps you focus on what’s logically important.

2. Understand the Question Type
Is the question asking you to strengthen the argument or to find a flaw? Your approach depends on the question type. Misreading the question often leads to choosing the wrong answer.

3. Look for Assumptions
Many GMAT arguments contain hidden assumptions. Strengthening questions often validate those assumptions, while weakening questions expose flaws.

4. Use Pre-thinking
Before looking at the answer choices, think about what kind of answer you’re looking for. This prevents you from being misled by attractive-sounding but incorrect options.

5. Be Wary of Extreme Language
Correct answers are usually moderate and logically sound. Extreme words like “always,” “never,” or “must” can signal a trap.

Sentence Correction

Sentence Correction questions test grammar, usage, conciseness, clarity, and logic. Each question presents a sentence with a portion underlined. You must choose the answer that makes the sentence correct and most effective.

What’s Being Tested

• Subject-verb agreement
  
• Parallelism
  
• Pronoun usage
  
• Modifiers
  
• Verb tense and mood
  
• Idiomatic expressions
  
• Conciseness and clarity

Core Strategies

1. Read the Entire Sentence Carefully
Understand the sentence as a whole before jumping into the options. Identify what the sentence is trying to say and look for errors.

2. Identify Error Types in the Underlined Part
Look at what’s underlined and ask yourself what could be wrong — grammar, clarity, or structure.

3. Eliminate Answers with Obvious Mistakes
Use the process of elimination. If a choice has subject-verb disagreement or awkward phrasing, remove it from consideration.

4. Compare Similar Choices
Often, answer choices differ in subtle ways. Compare them side by side to identify which is more concise, logical, or grammatically sound.

5. Watch for Modifiers and Parallelism
Modifiers should be placed near the words they describe. Elements in lists or comparisons should be grammatically parallel.

6. Re-read with the New Choice Inserted
After choosing an option, read the full sentence with that choice inserted to ensure it sounds natural and correct.

Managing Time in Verbal Reasoning

Time pressure is significant in the Verbal section. Here’s how to manage it:

• Don’t spend more than 2 minutes on any single question.
  
• Use checkpoints — e.g., after 18 questions, about 32 minutes should have passed.
  
• If you’re stuck between two options, pick one and move on. Don’t let indecision slow you down.
  
• Save time on Sentence Correction questions to allow more time for complex Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.

Pacing requires practice. Use full-length, timed sections regularly to build your rhythm.

Improving Your Verbal Score Through Practice

Even if Verbal is your weak point, steady and deliberate practice can lead to big improvements. Here’s how to structure your study:

1. Practice in Sets
Work on 10–15 Verbal questions at a time to simulate test conditions and build stamina.

2. Analyze Every Mistake
Understand why you got a question wrong. Was it a reading error? Misinterpreting the argument? Weak grammar? Log your errors to identify patterns.

3. Build a Review Notebook
Keep notes on grammar rules, logical patterns, and types of traps. Review it frequently to reinforce your understanding.

4. Mix Question Types
Since the GMAT mixes Verbal questions randomly, practice with all three types together. This trains your brain to switch between skills.

Reaching a 700+ Score with Strong Verbal Skills

To score in the 700+ range, you’ll likely need a Verbal score in the mid-40s or higher (out of 60). Many candidates mistakenly focus all their energy on Quant and neglect Verbal, assuming it’s “easier.” But elite scorers know that Verbal can be a score booster, especially for non-native English speakers who can close the gap with intensive preparation.

High Verbal scorers typically:

• Master sentence structure and grammar through consistent practice.
  
• Read challenging material (editorials, academic journals) to improve comprehension.
  
• Practice Critical Reasoning regularly to develop logical thinking.
  
• Review Reading Comprehension questions to refine their accuracy and pacing.

Your Verbal prep should be just as rigorous and structured as your Quant prep. With enough targeted effort, you can turn this section into one of your strongest.

Final Thoughts

Verbal Reasoning on the GMAT is not about knowing obscure vocabulary or memorizing grammar rules in isolation. It’s about reading accurately, thinking logically, and communicating clearly. By understanding each question type, practicing regularly, and reflecting on your mistakes, you can significantly improve your performance.

With this GMAT exam series, you now have a detailed understanding of how to tackle every section of the test. The road to a 700+ score is not easy, but it’s completely achievable with the right strategy, discipline, and mindset.