6 Best GRE Data Analysis Exercises: Tips & Tricks And Practice Questions

Did you know that one in four GRE general test applicants struggle the most with Data Analysis? This section isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about interpreting ratios, probability, and even complex line graphs. For many, it’s the part of the exam that can make or break their score, especially when faced with question types they aren’t prepared for. The math section demands that you understand how to compute median values, compare two quantities, and even solve GRE math questions based on tables and charts—all under tight time constraints.

It’s brutally honest: many students face anxiety when tackling GRE data. Whether it’s trying to interpret confusing tables, dividing columns correctly, or decreasing the time spent on algebra and geometry, it feels like an impossible task. But here’s the key—you don’t need to be a math genius. Realistically, you need practical strategies to solve these problems, such as learning how to interpret data displays or mastering numeric formats through targeted practice. Let’s get into how you can sharpen your skills and build confidence in these areas.

What Are The Different Types Of GRE Data Analysis Questions?

In the GRE quant section, GRE data analysis questions are not your typical math problems—they test your ability to break down visual information and interpret data with precision. Many students struggle here, not because they lack math skills, but because they aren’t used to quickly interpreting bar graphs, circle graphs, and complex data plots under exam pressure.

On test day, you might find yourself needing to answer at least 6 questions that involve data interpretation—but it’s not just about answering the questions; it’s about making sense of the data in front of you. Regular data interpretation alone won’t cut it—you’ll need special skills to spot relationships between data points and understand the value of variables, units of measurement, and proportional breakdowns.

Here are 4 types of GRE Data Analysis questions you can expect:

1. Bar Graph Questions: These questions require you to analyze bar graphs, which often display information about the total number of students, units of measurement, or other variables. You’ll need to interpret the relationship between two variables and calculate proportional changes, all while navigating the axes and scales correctly.
2. Circle Graph or Pie Chart Questions: This type of question asks you to break down the circle graph into its sectors and interpret the sum of segments. You might need to calculate the percentage or proportional value of a variable by converting sectors into numerical data.
3. Data Interpretation (DI) Questions: These require you to analyze a set of data points often presented in tables, bar graphs, or line graphs. You’ll be asked to answer questions about trends, relationships, and the value of a variable across data points, testing your ability to handle graphical information.
4. Scatter Plot Questions: Involving bivariate data, these questions focus on the relationship between two variables. You’ll have to determine patterns and correlations, often requiring mathematical calculations to interpret the visual data and make accurate predictions.

6 GRE Data Analysis Exercise To Score High In The Exam

One serious problem many students face with GRE data analysis is the sheer overwhelm when faced with complex data interpretation questions during the exam. It’s not just about solving a math problem; it’s about quickly making sense of various data points, graphs, and tables under time pressure.

On test day, students are often stuck trying to convert numbers from one format to another, calculate proportions, or interpret the relationship between two variables—all while racing against the clock. It’s easy to lose confidence and fall into the trap of making small, careless mistakes that snowball into larger score penalties.

Here are 6 exercises to help you score high in GRE Data Analysis:

Bar Graph Breakdown

Practice analyzing bar graphs by identifying key information such as units of measurement, axes, and proportional relationships between variables. Take note of how the total number of students or other quantities change across different bars. Doing so will train your mind to quickly spot trends. Create a 10 days GRE study schedule just to solve these questions.

Circle Graph Interpretation

Work on breaking down circle graphs (pie charts) by focusing on converting each sector into percentages or numerical values. Calculate the sum of segments and understand their relationship to the whole to improve your ability to work with proportional data.

Data Interpretation (DI) Drills

Set aside time for DI questions where you focus on interpreting complex data sets—whether from tables, column charts, or line graphs. Practice finding the value of a variable and answering questions that require analyzing trends and calculating changes. These are important question type – make sure you have it in your 2 months GRE study plan.

Scatter Plot Sense

Dive into scatter plots to understand bivariate data. Identify patterns, determine relationships between two variables, and use these skills to predict future trends. This is crucial for answering any questions related to correlations in data interpretation.

Ratio & Percentage Calculations

Regularly practice calculating ratios and percentages from raw data, as these are common in the GRE Quant section. Multiplying and dividing values from tables or graphs to find ratios will sharpen your ability to answer any GRE data analysis questions efficiently. Read GRE quant books for better understanding about this type of questions.

Visual Information Practice Tests

Complete practice tests that emphasize working with graphical information such as column charts, bar graphs, and line graphs. This will build your confidence in interpreting data points quickly, especially when the exam demands you to make calculations on the spot.

4 GRE Data Analysis Practice Questions 

So, what should be your GRE action plan? Here’s what you actually need: real practice questions that mirror the types of GRE data analysis problems you’ll face on test day. These exercises will push you to apply your knowledge of data interpretation, graphs, and calculation in the way the GRE really tests. Get ready to dive into data points, ratios, and visual information.

Bar Graph Question

The bar graph below shows the total number of students in four different classes over two semesters. Calculate the percentage increase in the total number of students in Class B from Semester 1 to Semester 2.

Explanation: First, note the total number of students in Class B during both semesters. Subtract Semester 1’s number from Semester 2’s, then divide the result by the number from Semester 1. Multiply by 100 to find the percentage increase. This method simplifies data comparisons and helps answer GRE quant section questions efficiently.

Circle Graph (Pie Chart) Question

The pie chart shows the percentage distribution of expenses in a company’s annual budget. If the total budget is $500,000 and marketing accounts for 18% of the pie chart, what is the dollar amount allocated to marketing?

Explanation: To solve, convert the percentage to a decimal by dividing by 100, then multiply by the total budget. This calculation will give you the exact dollar value spent on marketing. Pie chart questions like this test your ability to work with percentages and data interpretation.

Data Interpretation (DI) Question

The table below displays product sales across four regions over the last quarter. Determine which region had the highest proportional increase in Product X sales compared to the previous quarter.

Explanation: To find the region with the greatest increase, subtract the previous quarter’s sales from the current quarter’s for each region. Then, divide the difference by the previous quarter’s sales to find the proportion. The region with the highest value has the greatest increase. DI questions like this require strong data interpretation skills and a good sense of proportional changes.

Scatter Plot Question

A scatter plot displays the relationship between hours studied and GRE scores for a group of students. Estimate the GRE score for a student who studies 25 hours a week based on the trend line.

Explanation: Locate 25 hours on the x-axis, then follow the trend line upward to see where it intersects with the y-axis (GRE score). Use this estimate as the likely GRE score for that student. Scatter plot questions often test your ability to interpret visual data and identify relationships between variables.

Conclusion

So, if you approach it with a focused mindset and targeted practice, you can boost your score dramatically. The key is consistency—work through these exercises, analyze your mistakes, and keep refining your techniques. Trust the process, and you’ll walk into test day ready to crush those graphs and tables with confidence.

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