GEOMETRY
WHY you need to know Geometry:
1. 4- 9 Geometry questions show up on the GMAT. 2. Geometry is based on a series of simple formulas. Knowing the formulas makes the questions easy to answer.
Note: If a Problem Solving question includes a drawing, then that drawing is usually to scale and can be used for estimation purposes (unless the question states that the figure is NOT drawn to scale). Note: If a Data Sufficiency question includes a drawing, then you should NOT TRUST IT. Some DS drawings are completely off; as such, they can not be used for estimation purposes. You can trust whatever numbers or descriptions you are given, but be suspicious of any picture that comes with a DS question.
Lines
Questions involving straight lines will likely include one or more of the following rules: 1. Lines add up to 180° 2. When lines criss-cross, opposite angles equal one another 3. Parallel lines, when crossed by a third line, will have the same set of 2 angles show up 4 times 4. Perpendicular lines form 90° angles at their meeting point
Triangles
Triangle questions will involve major rules and sometimes minor rules. Be on the lookout for each of these specific ideas on the GMAT: Major Rules:
Major Rules:
1. Triangles add up to 180°
2. Area =
3. Pythagorean Theorem:
4. Common Pythagorean triples:
• 3, 4, 5
• 5, 12, 13
5. Multiples of those triples for example:
• 9, 12, 15
• 50, 120, 130
6. 30°, 60°, 90° Triangle
7. 45°, 45°, 90° Triangle
Sometimes the following concepts show up; not every one will, but if they show, then you need to be ready for them.
Minor Rules:
1. Isosceles Triangles – 2 sides and 2 corresponding angles are equal
2. Equilateral Triangles – 3 sides are equal, all angles are 60 degrees
3. Hidden Right Triangles – in squares or equilateral triangles
4. Triangle Inequality Theorem – with 2 sides, you can figure out the minimum length of the third side (greater than the difference of the numbers) and the maximum (less than the sum of the numbers)
1. What is the importance of geometry in the GMAT exam? |
2. What are the key geometry topics that are commonly tested in the GMAT? |
3. How can I improve my geometry skills for the GMAT exam? |
4. Are there any specific strategies for approaching geometry questions in the GMAT exam? |
5. Can I use a calculator to solve geometry questions in the GMAT exam? |