The analytical writing assessment determines a person's ability to think critically and communicate ideas. It consists of two 30-minute writing exercises. During the first one, the test takers must analyze a presented issue and explain their point of view on the topic. There is no correct answer; rather, the task evaluates ability to reason, consider other perspectives and develop a position based on personal experience, knowledge and background. The second exercise measures a person's ability to analyze the reasoning behind a given argument and write a critique. Test takers will determine whether the point of view is based on questionable assumptions, what other explanations might weaken the conclusion and what additional evidence could enhance or disprove the argument.
The quantitative section is comprised of 37 multiple-choice questions that measure ability to reason and solve quantitative problems and interpret graphic data. Problem-solving questions require knowledge of arithmetic and basic mathematical concepts. Data-sufficiency questions assess logical ability to analyze a problem, recognize relevant information and determine when enough data has been presented to solve a problem.
The verbal section includes 41 multiple-choice questions covering reading comprehension, critical reasoning and sentence correction. Reading comprehension passages, which consist of 350 words, measure the test taker's ability to understand terms in the English language and draw conclusions based on presented facts. Critical reasoning questions determine ability in three areas: recognition of an argument's construction, evaluation of an argument and formulation of a plan of action. Sentence correction questions ask test takers to choose the answer that best expresses an idea or relationship. They measure knowledge of English grammar and the ability to improve incorrect or ineffective phrases and sentences.
Beginning in June 2012, the GMAT may include a section that measures a person's skills at integrated reasoning. Sample questions were presented to 5,000 test takers worldwide during five days in November 2010. As GMAT officials consider the results, they will determine whether or not similar questions will become a permanent part of the exam.