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GMAT 1 min read 14 June 2026

GMAT Math Formulas: All GMAT Math Formulas You Need in 2026

The GMAT exam focuses on the core competencies required for achievement in business school. Although the test structure has been updated, the Quantitative Reasoning portion remains a crucial component. To excel on the GMAT, a firm grasp of essential mathematical formulas is necessary.

Today, we will examine the GMAT Quantitative Reasoning section, outline the test format, and provide a complete GMAT Math Formula Cheat Sheet covering algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and other topics. With this reference guide, you will be prepared to tackle problems efficiently and with confidence.

GMAT Quantitative Reasoning Section Overview

The GMAT Focus Edition Quantitative Reasoning section evaluates your capability to solve mathematical problems and analyze data within a restricted timeframe:

Aspect

Details

Total Questions

21 questions

Time Allocation

45 minutes

Score Range

60-90 (Quantitative Section)

Question Types

- Problem Solving (PS)

Key Concepts Tested

- Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Averages)
- Algebra (Linear equations, Quadratic equations)
- Number Properties (Divisibility, Prime numbers, Factors)

Scoring

Each question contributes to your overall score, but no negative marking.

Format

Multiple-choice questions with a mix of quantitative problem-solving and reasoning.

Difficulty Level

Varies by question, with some requiring advanced reasoning and others basic mathematical concepts.

Ashiraj Prep simplifies GMAT preparation by designing study schedules tailored to your speed, strengths, and objectives. Through expert guidance and interactive tools, learning math formulas feels less like a burden and more like a game you can master.

GMAT Math Formula Cheat Sheet

To guarantee complete readiness, utilizing a GMAT Math Formula Cheat Sheet allows you to quickly look up the formulas needed for problem-solving. Here is a summary of the formulas sorted by category:

Algebra

Algebraic formulas are vital for resolving equations, manipulating expressions, and finding unknowns. Important formulas consist of:

  • Linear Equation:ax+b=0Solve for x:x=−ba
  • Quadratic Equation:ax2+bx+c=0Solve using the quadratic formula:x=−bb2−4ac2a
  • Exponents:aman=am+namn=amnaman=am−n
  • Logarithms:logba=logalogb

Arithmetic

Arithmetic questions frequently appear on the GMAT Focus Edition and test your competence in handling numbers, percentages, and other foundational mathematical principles. Important formulas consist of:

  • Percentage Change:Percentage Change=New Value−Old ValueOld Value100
  • Average:Average=Sum of ValuesNumber of Values
  • Simple Interest:I=PrtWhere I is interest, P is principal, r is rate, and t is time.
  • Weighted Average:Weighted Average=∑ValueWeight∑Weight

Geometry

Geometry questions are important for measuring your spatial reasoning skills. Important formulas to keep in mind:

  • Perimeter of a Rectangle:P=2l+w
  • Area of a Triangle:A=12bh
  • Volume of a Rectangular Prism:V=lwh
  • Area of a Circle:A=r2
  • Pythagorus Theorem:a2+b2=c2 (for right triangles)

Number Properties

Grasping number properties assists you in solving questions related to divisibility, factors, and prime numbers. Important formulas consist of:

  • Prime Factorization:Express a number as the product of its prime factors.
  • Divisibility Rules:
  • A number is divisible by 2 if its last digit is even.
  • A number is divisible by 3 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 3.
  • A number is divisible by 5 if its last digit is 0 or 5.
  • LCM (Least Common Multiple):The smallest multiple that two or more numbers share.
  • GCD (Greatest Common Divisor):The largest number that divides two or more numbers without leaving a remainder.

Statistics

Statistics is another key subject evaluated on the GMAT Focus Edition. Important formulas consist of:

  • Mean:Mean=∑Data PointsNumber of Data Points
  • Median:The middle value in an ordered set of numbers.
  • Standard Deviation:=∑xi−2N

Interest Formulas

Interest questions regularly feature in the GMAT Quantitative section. Important formulas consist of:

  • Simple Interest:I=PrtWhere I is interest, P is principal, r is rate, and t is time.
  • Compound Interest:A=P1+rnntWhere A is the amount, P is the principal, r is the rate, n is the number of times interest is compounded per year, and t is time.

Permutations and Combinations

Permutations and combinations are critical for probability and counting questions. Important formulas consist of:

  • Permutations:Pn,r=n!n−r!
  • Combinations:Cn,r=n!r!n−r!

Probability

Probability questions are crafted to gauge your comprehension of likelihood and chance. Important formulas consist of:

  • Probability of an Event:PA=Number of favorable outcomesTotal number of outcomes
  • Probability of Two Independent Events:PAB=PAPB

Suggested: Free GMAT Practice Tests

How to Memorise Quant Formula for GMAT? 

Committing the necessary GMAT formulas to memory, particularly for the Quantitative Reasoning section, demands a disciplined strategy and regular practice. The formulas can frequently feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of material, but utilizing appropriate techniques allows you to master them efficiently.

Here are several approaches to help you retain these formulas successfully:

Use Mnemonics

Mnemonics are memory aids that assist you in recalling complex formulas with greater ease. By linking each formula to a distinct word, phrase, or mental image, the retrieval process becomes faster and more intuitive.

Create a Formula Sheet

Building a custom formula sheet stands out as one of the most productive methods for memorizing GMAT math formulas. Categorize the formulas by topic (such as Algebra, Geometry, Statistics) so they remain simple to locate and consult. Go over this sheet consistently to reinforce your understanding. This technique aids in visualizing and recalling formulas during problem-solving. Remember to refresh your sheet as you acquire new formulas or discover methods to streamline them.

Practice Problems Regularly

The premier method for anchoring any formula in your memory is applying it to practical problems. Consistent practice not only aids in remembering formulas but also demonstrates how and when to deploy them effectively. You can begin with straightforward questions and progress toward more difficult ones. This routine deepens your comprehension and guarantees the formulas become second nature.

Use Flashcards

Flashcards are an exceptional resource for self-testing and active recall. Put every formula on one side of a card and its corresponding name or category on the reverse. Mix up the deck and review them every day. This active retrieval method strengthens your capacity to recall formulas when working under tight time limits. Alternatively, you can use numerous software applications to build virtual flashcards for convenient studying while traveling.

Group Study Sessions

Reviewing formulas and working through problems collaboratively can greatly improve your memory retention. Studying with peers prompts you to articulate the formulas to others, which solidifies your personal comprehension. Collaborative study meetings also introduce you to alternative problem-solving strategies, simplifying the process of retrieving the most effective methods during the test. Teamwork frequently fosters a more profound grasp of how formulas function across different scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to memorise formulas for GMAT?

<p>Yes, securing a strong score on the math portion requires you to commit the required GMAT math formulas to memory.</p>

Is the GMAT math section hard? 

<p>The Quant section is more challenging than most due to its adaptive format, yet through adequate preparation and mastery of these formulas, you can conquer the GMAT smoothly.</p>

Do you get a calculator for the GMAT Quantitative reasoning? 

<p>No, the GMAT does not permit calculator usage during the Quantitative portion, implying that calculators are entirely unnecessary for the problems you will encounter.</p>

How long should you study for GMAT? 

<p>A solid GMAT preparation schedule involves dedicating 10 to 15 hours of study per week. This generally translates to a total prep duration of six to nine weeks.</p>

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GMAT Math Formulas: All GMAT Math Formulas You Need in 2026