Summary of data sufficiency

Last updated: 6 Mar 2007

We looked at some examples of data sufficiency questions and also covered the basic strategies for data sufficiency questions.

Learn the answer choices

This will keep you from making mistakes in the real test when selecting your answer.

Remember 1-2-TEN

Keep the statements separate

This is the key strategy for data sufficiency.

Study each statement separately and use your noteboard to keep a record of whether statement 1 and/or statement 2 is sufficient to answer the question.

Simplify

When you are faced with complex looking questions or data statements it is worth spending a short time simplifying them to work out what you are really being asked and what data you are being provided with.

Avoid unnecessary calculations

You can save lots of time on data sufficiency questions because you usually don't have to do any calculations.

Use a process of elimination

You can eliminate many of the answers to improve your chances of getting the question right even if you get stuck assessing one of the statements.

Learn the 'gotchas'

There are lots of standard tricks that are used in GMAT data sufficiency questions to catch you out and you should learn to spot these.

Summary of data sufficiency

Further reading

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Practice questions