Latest GMAT Curriculum
GMAT Focus Edition / Current GMAT Exam
What to study for the new GMAT?
If you're preparing for the current GMAT exam, the most important thing is to understand the correct structure and actual content of the test. This article summarizes clearly what you need to learn in each section: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights, along with study strategies suited to the new format.
What does the current GMAT curriculum include?
The current GMAT focuses on 3 main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights. Each section has its own role, but all 3 contribute equally to your overall GMAT score.
| Test Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 23 | 45 minutes | No more Sentence Correction; focus on Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 21 | 45 minutes | No more Data Sufficiency in Quant; focus on Problem Solving. |
| Data Insights | 20 | 45 minutes | The new section has equal weight to Quant and Verbal in the total score. |
Change 1: No More AWA
The current GMAT has eliminated the essay section. This makes the exam more concise and study strategy more focused on the 3 scored sections.
Change 2: Verbal is More Streamlined
The Verbal section no longer includes Sentence Correction as before. The current focus areas are Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.
Change 3: Data Insights is More Important
Data Insights is not a supplementary section. It is a core part of the exam and contributes directly to the total score.
1) Verbal Reasoning – What to Study?
Verbal Reasoning assesses your ability to comprehend written text and analyze arguments. In the current format, this section no longer includes Sentence Correction, so learners need to focus heavily on two main areas: Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning.
Reading Comprehension
- Main point / main idea
- Detail / supporting idea
- Inference / reasoning
- Function / role of a passage or sentence
- Style and tone / writing style and attitude
Critical Reasoning
- Strengthen / weaken
- Assumption
- Inference
- Evaluate
- Plan / paradox / flaw
With the current GMAT, Verbal is no longer an old-style grammar test. This section measures reading comprehension, logical language skills, and the ability to evaluate arguments at a level more relevant to business school.
2) Quantitative Reasoning – What to Study?
Quantitative Reasoning now focuses on Problem Solving. Data Sufficiency is no longer part of Quant but has moved to Data Insights. This means your Quant preparation should focus clearly on foundational knowledge and the ability to solve quantitative problems.
Arithmetic
- Number properties
- Fractions, decimals, percentages
- Ratios and proportions
- Average, set theory, probability
- Speed – time – distance, work rate
Algebra
- Linear equations
- Quadratic equations
- Exponents and roots
- Functions
- Inequalities and algebraic expressions
Important point: The current Quant section no longer emphasizes geometry as a major focus the way many older materials do. You should study with updated learning materials to avoid scattered preparation.
3) Data Insights – What to Study?
Data Insights is a new section but not a supplementary one. This section directly assesses your ability to work with data, synthesize information, and make decisions based on multiple sources. GMAC describes this section as comprising 5 main types of questions.
Data Sufficiency
Assesses your ability to determine whether the given data is sufficient to solve a problem.
Graphics Interpretation
Analyzes graphs, charts, or data visualization.
Table Analysis
Processes data tables, trends, sorting, and information comparison.
Two-Part Analysis
Solves problems consisting of two interrelated components.
Multi-Source Reasoning
Integrates information from multiple data sources—text, numerical, and graphical.
Calculator
GMAC allows the use of an on-screen calculator in the Data Insights section.
Study recommendation: You should solidify Quant and Verbal first, then dive deeper into Data Insights, since Data Insights draws on math skills, language skills, and data analysis simultaneously.
How to Study the New GMAT More Effectively
- Start by understanding the current format correctly, not studying the old format.
- Build your Quant and Verbal foundation before spending significant time on Data Insights.
- Learn not just content, but how to handle questions under real time constraints.
- Focus on data analysis and reasoning skills rather than memorizing isolated tips.
- Use official materials or materials updated for the current GMAT.
Which Official Guide Edition Should You Use?
Currently, the GMAT Official Guide 2025–2026 and corresponding question bank products are available on mba.com. Therefore, if you're just starting to study, you should prioritize newer learning materials instead of only relying on "Official Guide 2023–2024" as was common in the early GMAT Focus phase.
Where to Study GMAT?
Frequently Asked Questions
What sections are in the current GMAT curriculum?
The current GMAT consists of 3 sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights.
Does the current GMAT still have Sentence Correction?
No. In the current format, Verbal no longer contains Sentence Correction like the old version.
Where is Data Sufficiency now located?
Data Sufficiency is now part of the Data Insights section and is no longer part of Quantitative Reasoning.
Does the current GMAT still have an essay?
No. The current GMAT format no longer includes the AWA section.
Which version of the Official Guide should I use to study?
If you're starting to prepare for the current GMAT, you should prioritize newer Official Guide editions like 2025–2026 or the latest official question bank on mba.com.