Data Interpretation: How to Decode GRE Charts and Graphs -

Are you preparing for the GRE and feeling overwhelmed by the data interpretation questions? You’re not alone. Many test-takers find this section to be one of the most challenging parts of the exam. But fear not, with the right strategies and techniques, you can decode GRE charts and graphs like a pro.

Table of Contents

Why is data interpretation important on the GRE?

Data interpretation is a crucial skill to have, not just for the GRE, but for any graduate-level program. As a graduate student, you will be expected to analyze and interpret data in various forms, whether it’s in a research paper or a business report. Therefore, the GRE includes data interpretation questions to assess your ability to understand and manipulate data.

Types of charts and graphs on the GRE

Before we dive into decoding GRE charts and graphs, let’s familiarize ourselves with the different types of charts and graphs that you may encounter on the exam.

Line graphs: These graphs show the relationship between two variables over time.
Bar graphs: These graphs display data in rectangular bars, with the length of the bar representing the value of the data.
Pie charts: These circular graphs show the proportion of different categories within a whole.
Tables: These are organized sets of data in rows and columns.

Now that you know the different types of charts and graphs, let’s look at some tips to help you decode them on the GRE.

1. Read the title and labels carefully

The first step in decoding any chart or graph is to carefully read the title and labels. These will give you important information about what the data is representing and what units are being used. Make sure to pay attention to any axis labels, as they can be tricky to interpret if you’re not familiar with them.

2. Understand the scale and intervals

The scale and intervals on a graph are essential to understanding the data accurately. The scale tells you the range of values being represented, while the intervals indicate the increments between each data point. Interpreting these correctly is crucial to avoid making mistakes in your analysis.

3. Look for trends and patterns

Charts and graphs are used to show trends and patterns in data. Look for any significant changes or consistent patterns in the data. Pay attention to any outliers or anomalies that may affect your interpretation.

4. Use estimation techniques

Since you will be pressed for time on the GRE, it’s essential to use estimation techniques to quickly analyze the data. Round numbers to the nearest whole number or use the 10% method, where you estimate the value to the nearest 10%.

5. Practice, practice, practice

The key to mastering data interpretation on the GRE is practice. The more you expose yourself to different types of charts and graphs, the better you will become at interpreting them. Use practice tests and other resources to familiarize yourself with the different types of data sets.

Final thoughts

Data interpretation may seem daunting at first, but with the right strategies and plenty of practice, you can improve your skills and ace this section on the GRE. Remember to read carefully, pay attention to details, and use estimation techniques to decode GRE charts and graphs accurately. Good luck!

For more tips and tricks on mastering GRE data interpretation, check out these helpful resources:

Now that you have the tools to decode GRE charts and graphs, go forth and conquer the data interpretation section with confidence!