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9 September 2024

5 minutes read

Free GRE Percentage Problems Practice Questions 2024

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

9 September 2024

5 minutes read

GRE

Key Takeaways

  • Consistent practice with realistic GRE percentage problems is essential for success.
  • Simplifying complex concepts can make even the toughest questions more manageable.
  • Seeking additional support, like private GRE tutoring, can help strengthen weak areas.

Percentage problems account for a significant chunk of GRE Quant questions, yet they’re often underestimated. If you’ve found yourself staring blankly at a GRE question involving percentages, you’re not alone. Many test-takers struggle because they expect these questions to be simple—but when time pressure hits, even basic math can feel like rocket science.

The key to mastering percentage problems isn’t just understanding the formulas—it’s about practicing with questions that simulate the actual test environment. The right kind of practice can boost your confidence and ensure you’re not thrown off by tricky wordings or time constraints. Make sure you understand the difference between the GRE subject test and the general test as well.

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What Are GRE Percentage Problems?

GRE percentage problems are math questions that require you to calculate percentages, compare two quantities, or determine percentage increases and decreases. These problems often appear in the Quantitative Comparison section, where you’ll compare two quantities like Quantity A and Quantity B and select the correct relationship between them. For instance, you may need to calculate the percentage increase or decrease in an employee’s salary, or apply a discount to a product and compare the final amounts. These are as important as the GRE geometry problems.

gre percentage problems 1

To solve these problems effectively, you need to understand the core concept of percentages, convert them into decimals, and divide or multiply them to find the solution. Practice questions often contain scenarios involving percent greater comparisons, or problems that ask you to find an equal result between different quantities. Have a thorough knowledge of GRE functions as well.

A solid prep strategy includes reviewing free GRE practice questions, understanding each step in the solution, and consulting a tutor for difficult problems. Whether you’re facing GRE or GMAT percentage problems, mastering these skills is crucial to succeed in the test. Also, make sure your GRE number theory aspect is also strong.

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GRE Percentage Problems Practice Questions

When it comes to GRE percentage problems, understanding the core concepts is just the beginning. These questions test your ability to quickly calculate percentages, compare values, and apply real-world scenarios like discounts and percentage increases. The practice questions in this section will help sharpen your skills, ensuring you’re ready to tackle even the most complex GRE quant challenges with confidence. This will be helpful for the GRE pen and paper test as well.

1. What percentage of a number is 15 if the number is 60?

Possible Answers:
A) 25%
B) 20%
C) 15%
D) 10%
E) 5%

Correct answer: A) 25%

Explanation:
To find what percentage 15 is of 60, we set up the proportion:
15/60 = x/100

Cross-multiplying and solving for x:
15 * 100 = 60x
1500 = 60x
x = 1500/60
x = 25

So 15 is 25% of 60.

2. A store sold 80% of its inventory. If the store started with 500 items, how many items were sold?

Possible Answers:
A) 100
B) 200
C) 300
D) 400
E) 500

Correct answer: D) 400

Explanation:
We know that 80% of the starting inventory was sold. To find the number of items sold, we set up the proportion:

80/100 = x/500
Cross-multiplying and solving for x:
80 * 500 = 100x
40000 = 100x
x = 40000/100
x = 400

So if the store started with 500 items and sold 80% of them, 400 items were sold.

3. A store sells a product for $20. If the store’s profit is 25% of the selling price, what is the cost price of the product?

Possible Answers:
A) $5
B) $10
C) $15
D) $20
E) $25

Correct answer: C) $15

Explanation:
Let’s break this down step-by-step:

  • Selling price = $20
  • Profit = 25% of selling price
  • Cost price = selling price – profit

First, we find the profit:
25% of $20 = 0.25 * $20 = $5Now, we find the cost price:
Cost price = $20 – $5 = $15So if the selling price is $20 and the profit is 25% of the selling price, the cost price is $15.

4. A student scored 70 marks out of 100 in the first exam and 80 marks out of 100 in the second exam. What is the average percentage score of the student in the two exams?

Possible Answers:
A) 70%
B) 75%
C) 80%
D) 85%
E) 90%

Correct answer: B) 75%

Explanation:
To find the average percentage score, we need to:

  1. Find the percentage score for each exam
  2. Add the two percentages
  3. Divide by 2 to get the average

Percentage score in first exam = 70/100 * 100 = 70%
Percentage score in second exam = 80/100 * 100 = 80%

Average = (70% + 80%) / 2 = 150% / 2 = 75%

So the average percentage score of the student in the two exams is 75%.

5. A company’s revenue increased by 20% in the first quarter and decreased by 10% in the second quarter. If the revenue at the end of the second quarter was $810,000, what was the revenue at the beginning of the first quarter?

Possible Answers:
A) $600,000
B) $675,000
C) $750,000
D) $810,000
E) $900,000

Correct answer: C) $750,000

Explanation:
Let’s work backward from the end of the second quarter:

  • Revenue at end of 2nd quarter = $810,000
  • Revenue decreased by 10% in 2nd quarter
  • So revenue at start of 2nd quarter = $810,000 / (1 – 0.10) = $810,000 / 0.90 = $900,000

Now, revenue increased by 20% in 1st quarter

  • So revenue at start of 1st quarter = $900,000 / (1 + 0.20) = $900,000 / 1.20 = $750,000

Therefore, the revenue at the beginning of the first quarter was $750,000.

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5 Expert Tips To Master GRE Math Problems 

Mastering GRE math problems can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you’ll be able to tackle even the toughest gre questions. Make sure you have an idea of the GRE minimum score as well. Whether you’re aiming to get into your dream MBA program or improving your skills in quantitative reasoning, these expert tips will set you on the right track.

gre percentage problems 2

Simplify and Understand Key Concepts

For the GRE test, focus on breaking down complex problems into manageable steps. For instance, when you find the percentage, remember that the numerator goes over the denominator is 100. This trick will help with questions involving percentage discount or increases by 10 percent. Choose the right GRE math preparation materials to help you with the process.

Practice Realistic Scenarios

To really nail the quant section, try to relate problems to everyday situations. Imagine the price of a stock decreasing by 40 percent, or the selling price of an item being marked up by 20 percent. This practical application can clarify tricky quant questions and make math more relatable. Make sure you have a strong foundation of important GRE math concepts.

Focus on Your Weak Areas

Whether it’s calculus or basic arithmetic, every student has weak spots. Consider using gmat tutoring online or a tutoring website to get extra help. If you prefer a one-on-one approach, many platforms offer private GRE coaching to focus on specific needs. Create a GRE maths topic list as well.

Leverage Proven Strategies from Top Schools

Learn from the best! A former student of Columbia Business School or someone who graduated with a degree in communication from UCLA might offer valuable insights. Watch their success stories—some even share their journey of scoring in the 99th percentile on the GRE and GMAT on YouTube. You can also create GRE math formula flashcards to help you remember.

Stay Consistent and Organized

Regular practice is key. Create a routine that covers both verbal and quantitative reasoning. When preparing for your general test, make sure to compare values and invest time in solving problems like a box contains items or how much must be added to a sum annually. Tackling these issues consistently will prepare you well for 2024. Also, understand the GRE conventions pretty well.

With these tips, you’re now ready to get the score you need to get into your dream MBA program—whether that’s Columbia Business School or any top institution worldwide.

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Conclusion

Mastering GRE math requires a blend of strategy, practice, and focus. By simplifying concepts, practicing real-life scenarios, and leveraging expert insights, you’ll be well-prepared for the GRE test. Stay consistent, work on your weak areas, and seek out the right support through GRE courses or tutoring. With dedication, you’ll be ready to tackle the GRE and make strides toward getting into your dream MBA program.

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FAQs

What types of percentage problems are common in the GRE quant section?

Percentage increase, decrease, comparison between two quantities, and discount calculations are frequent.

How can I improve my accuracy in GRE percentage problems?

Practice regularly, focus on simplifying concepts, and review explanations to understand mistakes.

Are percentage problems in the GRE harder than those in the GMAT?

Both tests feature similar percentage problems, but difficulty depends on individual strengths.

What’s the best way to approach percentage comparison questions on the GRE?

Convert percentages into decimals or fractions to easily compare two quantities.

How important is mastering percentage problems for a good GRE quant score?

Mastering percentage problems is crucial since they form a significant part of the GRE quant section.

Can I use a calculator on the GRE for percentage problems?

Yes, an on-screen calculator is available, but knowing how to simplify calculations manually is faster.

What resources can help me with GRE percentage practice questions?

Utilize GRE prep books, online practice questions, and private GRE tutoring for targeted help.

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