If you’re preparing for the GRE Quantitative section, mastering GRE Number Properties is a must. These fundamental math concepts are among the most frequently tested topics, appearing in both Problem Solving and Quantitative Comparison questions.
In this guide, we’ll explain what number properties are, highlight the most commonly tested concepts on the GRE, and share strategic tips—along with external resources—to help you prepare effectively.
What Are GRE Number Properties?
Number properties refer to basic characteristics and rules that govern integers, fractions, and real numbers. On the GRE, they often show up in problems that test your reasoning and algebraic thinking.
Here are the number properties you’re most likely to see on test day:
- Even and odd numbers
- Prime numbers
- Factors and multiples
- Divisibility rules
- Greatest common factor (GCF) and least common multiple (LCM)
- Remainders
- Properties of zero and one
- Positive and negative numbers
Understanding these will help you quickly identify patterns, eliminate answer choices, and simplify complex-looking questions.
Why GRE Number Properties Matter
GRE Number Properties questions assess your ability to apply logic, recognize patterns, and understand relationships between numbers—all core skills for success on the Quant section.
For example, knowing how odd and even numbers interact can help you solve questions quickly without even doing full calculations. The test often rewards logical reasoning over brute force math.
Example:
If n is an odd integer, which of the following must also be odd? A) 2n B) n + 1 C) n²
Here, knowing that squaring an odd number results in another odd number allows you to confidently choose C—without any arithmetic.
Top Strategies to Master GRE Number Properties
1. Memorize the Definitions
Terms like “multiple,” “factor,” or “prime” should trigger automatic recall. If you need a refresher, check out this Khan Academy guide on factors and multiples.
2. Plug In Numbers
When a question includes variables, try plugging in real values. Just be sure to test different cases: even, odd, positive, negative, and even zero when possible. This strategy can reveal hidden patterns or eliminate incorrect answers.
3. Watch for Tricky Wording
The GRE often uses absolute language like “must be” or “cannot be” to test your logic. Take your time interpreting these. They usually point to number property questions that rely more on logic than math.
4. Understand Remainders and Modulo
Remainder problems are common—and subtle. If you’re not already familiar with modular arithmetic, check out this helpful modular arithmetic guide from Brilliant.org.
5. Practice With Official Material
The best practice comes from the test-makers themselves. Use the free questions from ETS’s official GRE Quant resources to see how number property concepts are tested in real GRE problems.
Common GRE Number Properties Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming variables represent integers — unless stated otherwise, values like x or y could be fractions or negative numbers.
- Overgeneralizing rules — for example, not all even numbers are divisible by 4, and not all remainders are less than 1.
- Ignoring edge cases — especially zero, negatives, and undefined expressions (like division by zero).
Helpful Resources for GRE Number Properties
- Manhattan Prep’s Free GRE Resources
- Magoosh Guide to GRE Number Properties
- Khan Academy: Number Properties Review
- Brilliant: Properties of Integers
Conclusion: Why You Should Prioritize GRE Number Properties
GRE Number Properties are fundamental to success on the Quant section. They’re everywhere—in Data Interpretation sets, algebra questions, and even geometry. Once you master the logic behind these concepts, you’ll gain a huge confidence boost on test day.
Focus on definitions. Learn how to plug in values strategically. Practice identifying patterns. And most importantly—get comfortable using number properties as shortcuts, not just math facts.
Start incorporating number property drills into your study routine today. Your future GRE score will thank you.