What does a GMAT problem solving question measure?

Answer 1

In most simplistic terms, a GMAT problem solving question measures how talented a test taker is at answering a GMAT problem solving question. Sound overly simplistic? It is because it is.

The GMAT is unique because it is computer adaptive, which means that the questions that you see across both Quant and Verbal sections adjust based upon how well you do.

While there are quant and verbal questions, the test is not a measurement of how gifted you are mathematically or linguistically. Rather, the test gauges how well you are at taking the test.

By that, I mean that the test -- and Problem Solving questions in particular -- gauge how well you are at: 1) interpreting what is being provided, 2) understanding what you are required to solve and 3) efficiently answering the question using a handful of tactics that extend well beyond just doing algebra or applying geometric principles, etc.

Train for the test and not for the content. That mindset shift will enable you to obtain the 700+ score.