GMAT Algebra: Syllabus, Practice Questions & Study Resources 2025

Algebra is also a key component in the quantitative section of the GMAT curriculum being apart from being one of the fundamental aspects of mathematics. Business schools are always looking for prospective students who have a strong quantitative background, as this is a prerequisite for admission into management degree programmes.

When attempting the GMAT’s quant section, you are required to have a working knowledge of algebra. This is one of the essential prerequisites. Some applicants have difficulty with the mathematics questions on the GMAT, and the primary reason for this is that they do not have sufficient knowledge about the algebra topics. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the algebra section on the GMAT.

Key Highlights:

• Algebra is essential for the GMAT quantitative section and critical for business school success.
• Key terms to know include variables, constants, and coefficients.
• The syllabus covers topics like monomials, polynomials, inequalities, and quadratic equations.
• A strong strategy includes daily practice, mastering formulas, and building a solid foundation with simpler questions.
• Practicing various GMAT algebra questions, especially multiple-choice, reinforces skills and boosts exam confidence.

Understanding the Basics of GMAT Algebra

The basics of algebra include understanding variables, constants, coefficients, arithmetic operations, and foundational topics like monomials, polynomials, inequalities, and equations. To tackle GMAT Algebra effectively, it's crucial to understand these concepts.

Key Terminology and Formulas

• Variables: Symbols representing numbers in algebraic expressions (e.g., x,y).
• Constants: Fixed values in equations (e.g., 2,5).
• Terms: Combinations of variables and constants (e.g., 3x,−4).
• Degree: The exponent of a variable in an expression (e.g., in x3, the degree is 3).
• Algebraic Expressions: Formulas like x+2 or 2x−3y consist of terms combined through addition or subtraction.
• Coefficient: The number multiplying a variable in a term (e.g., in 4x, 4 is the coefficient).

Essential Formulas

• Difference of Two Squares:
  a2−b2=a−ba+b
• Squaring a Binomial:
  ab2=a22ab+b2
• Quadratic Formula:
  The roots of a quadratic equation ax2+bx+c=0 can be found using
  x=−bb2−4ac2a

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GMAT Algebra Syllabus

The GMAT Algebra syllabus is designed to assess a candidate's proficiency in algebraic concepts. It is divided into key categories, including:

Monomials

Only a single term is included.

Exponents

Exponentiation is a mathematical operation that uses two numbers, the base b and the exponent or power n. It is written as bⁿ and pronounced as "b to the power of n."

Polynomials

Has more than one term

Inequalities

Inequalities are used when making comparisons between 2 numbers or other mathematical notions that are not equal to one another. It uses fundamental concepts like Mathematical Operations with Inequalities, Functioning with ranges of numbers, Transitive Property and Addition of Like Qualities.

Linear Equations

A linear equation has a variable that isn't known and no exponents that are greater than 1. It uses concepts like Linear Equations with two unknowns and a Number of Solutions.

Quadratic Equations

 A more complex algebraic equation structured as ax2+bx+c=0, where a,b, and c are constants (real numbers) and a0. It uses concepts like the Factoring Method of Solving Quadratic Equations, Determining Solutions for the Difference of Perfect Squares, root and Quadratic Formulas for Solving Quadratic Equations.

Functions

Functions are exchanged between two sets of numbers; every single number that one puts into the formula counters with one possible answer. A function is represented by a letter along with the variable in the expression. It uses fundamental concepts like Domain of function and Range of function.

Permutation and combination

Permutation is the process of putting all of the items in a set in a certain order. The combination is a way to choose items from a set where, unlike permutations, it doesn't matter what order you choose them in.

Arithmetic and geometric progressions

In an arithmetic progression, you add the common difference to the previous term to get the next term. In a geometric progression, you multiply the common ratio by the previous term to get the next term.

Algebraic Expressions/ Equations

• Difference of Two Squares:
  a2−b2=a−ba+b
• Squaring a Binomial:
  ab2=a22ab+b2
• The Discriminant:
  D=b2−4ac

The first two items on the list are about factoring. The idea is that you can switch the expressions on the left and right of the equals sign. This method is often used to make algebraic expressions easier to understand. The third thing, the discriminant, is a powerful tool that can help you figure out what the roots of a quadratic equation are without having to find them.

Suggested: GMAT Exam Syllabus 

How to Prepare for GMAT Algebra?

A methodical approach to the GMAT mathematics part is required if one wishes to achieve good scores on the quant component of the GMAT. The following are some algebra-related GMAT preparation strategies that will be helpful:

Plugin the Numbers

Plugging in the numbers is a strategy where you substitute a chosen, simple number (like 2 or 5) for variables in complex algebraic expressions. This technique simplifies calculations, making it easier and quicker to find the correct answer.

Understand the GMAT Algebra Formulas

First you should become familiar with the theorems and the explanations behind them, then go on to studying the formulas that you need to apply. In addition, once you have mastered the GMAT math formulas, make it a daily habit to memorise them. Keep in mind that it is impossible to solve algebraic issues without first applying the appropriate formula.

Focus on Easy GMAT Algebra Questions

Using the GMAT algebra formulae correctly will help you answer 20% of the quant questions on the GMAT. Don't spend all your time rehearsing for the most difficult questions. Regardless of how simple the question may be, it should be given equal weight. For instance, the GMAT's word problems and GMAT linear equation problems can be tackled on separate days.

Practice Daily

When it comes to preparing for the GMAT quantitative part, you should know that practice is the best way to get better in GMAT math or any other component. So, if you want to get a better GMAT score, don't cut corners on practice.

Here’s a revised section on GMAT Algebra Practice Questions featuring multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with correct answers indicated:

GMAT Algebra Practice Questions

Practicing GMAT algebra questions is essential for mastering the concepts and boosting your confidence for the exam. Below are topic-wise multiple-choice questions categorised by key algebraic concepts you’ll encounter in the GMAT. Each question comes with four answer options, and the correct answer is indicated.

Monomials and Polynomials

Question 1: Simplify the expression: 3x2+5x2−2x+4−3

A) 8x2−2x+1
B) 8x2−2x+2
C) 8x2−2x+4
D) 8x2+2x+1

Correct Answer: A) 8x2−2x+1

Question 2: If fx=2x3+3x2−x+7, what is f2?

A) 29
B) 31
C) 37
D) 45

Correct Answer: B) 31

Exponents

Question 3: Simplify the expression: x5x3x4
A) x4
B) x8
C) x6
D) x2

Correct Answer: C) x6

Question 4: If aman=a12 and m+n=5, what are the values of m and n?

A) m=5,n=7
B) m=7,n=5
C) m=12,n=0
D) m=5,n=7

Correct Answer: A) m=5,n=7

Inequalities

Question 5: Solve the inequality:
2x−5<3
A) x<4
B) x>4
C) x<5
D) x>5

Correct Answer: A) x<4

Question 6: If x>3 and x<7, what are the possible integer values for x?

A) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
B) 4, 5, 6
C) 3, 4, 5
D) 3, 6, 7

Correct Answer: B) 4, 5, 6

Quadratic Equations

Question 7: What are the roots of the equation: x2−5x+6=0?

A) 2, 3
B) -2, -3
C) 1, 6
D) -1, -6

Correct Answer: A) 2, 3

Question 8: The equation 3x2+6x+3=0 can be simplified to:

A) x2+2x+1=0
B) x2+3x+1=0
C) x2+2x+3=0
D) x2+3x+3=0

Correct Answer: A) x2+2x+1=0

Functions

Question 9: If fx=2x+3, what is f4?

A) 8
B) 11
C) 10
D) 12

Correct Answer: B) 11

Question 10: What is the value of x if fx=5x−2 equals 8?

A) 2
B) 3
C) 4
D) 5

Correct Answer: B) 3

Permutations and Combinations

Question 13: In how many ways can you arrange the letters in the word "ALPHA"?

A) 60
B) 120
C) 24
D) 30

Correct Answer: B) 120

Question 14: How many ways can you choose 2 students from a class of 10?

A) 45
B) 90
C) 100
D) 50

Correct Answer: A) 45

Recommended Books for GMAT Algebra Preparation

To do well on the GMAT, you need the best GMAT preparation materials. Most people start with GMAT books but end up choosing GMAT online preparation courses. The GMAC Official Guide 2022 is a reliable prep book to abide by. Keep in mind that even the best GMAT books are redundant without a good GMAT study plan. Here are the six best books to study for the GMAT.

1. GMAT Official Guide 2022
2. Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guide Set
3. Kaplan GMAT Complete 2021
4. PowerScore verbal trilogy Bible
5. Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course
6. GMAT for Dummies 2021

From the Desk of Yocket

No one should be intimidated by GMAT algebra questions. Most of what you'll need to know is derived from linear and quadratic expressions and their close relatives. Understanding the foundational concepts of algebra can significantly demystify the complexities of the GMAT.

Algebra is not just about memorising formulas; it's about developing problem-solving skills that can be applied to real-world scenarios. Familiarity with topics such as factoring, solving equations, and working with inequalities will serve you well. If you're looking for personalised guidance and expert insights into GMAT algebra or any other part of your study abroad journey, consider joining Yocket Prep. Our dedicated team is here to support you with tailored strategies and resources that align with your goals.