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In this GMAT video, Rich begins by presenting a sample DS question. The question tests your ability to solve for the value of an expression — without necessarily solving for the variables in that expression. Jess and Rich then go on to explain the best way to solve for one variable in DS problems in which you are given more variables than equations. In addition, they provide a helpful recap of all the tips covered… Read more

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As Jess and Rich explain in this GMAT video, oftentimes on Data Sufficiency problems you’ll be given more variables than you have equations. This happens for two main reasons: You’re just given more variables than equations (you know, because it’s fun) You’re given as many variables as equations, but not all the equations are independent In these cases, you won’t be able to solve for the value of every variable in the system. But —… Read more

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In this video, Jess and Rich cover the basics of independent and dependent equations on Data Sufficiency questions. Here are some of the concepts they discuss: Systems of equations are dependent if one equation can be formed by manipulating and/or combining the others. If no manipulation/combination can create dependent equations, the equations are said to be independent. We need n independent equations to solve for a system with n variables. Dependent equations give us redundant… Read more

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In this video, Jess and Rich cover helpful strategies for solving Data Sufficiency questions involving systems of equations. There are three sample problems to try on your own: pause the video at 00:37, 5:30, and 8:00 to try your hand at each one. After you’ve given each one a shot, stay tuned for Jess and Rich’s step-by-step explanation of the best way to find the answer for each one. You’ll definitely learn some helpful tips… Read more

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In this GMAT video, Jess and Rich show you the best methods for simplifying Data Sufficiency prompts and translating equations into more helpful forms. They present two sample problems (pause the video at 00:21 and 4:10 to try them out for yourself), and then walk you through the most efficient way to arrive at the right answer. Plus, Jess imparts a particularly helpful tip: when Statement I and II provide exactly the same info (even… Read more

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In this video, Jess and Rich talk about “testing cases” in Data Sufficiency problems — i.e. coming up with example numbers and trying them out to see what happens. The goal of this strategy is to help you determine if the DS question prompt is always, sometimes, or never true. As Jess explains, the key with testing cases is to choose different numbers with different properties that still fit the constraints of the prompt, in… Read more

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In this video, Rich and Jess kick off a quant session all about Data Sufficiency. In this first portion of the lesson, they cover the “Don’t Solve” strategy for DS — which, as Jess points out, is one of the best math tips around! Remember: for DS problems, all you need to do is evaluate whether you would be able to arrive at the answer using the information provided in each statement; you don’t need… Read more

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In the final installment of our Critical Reasoning Lesson 2, Jen and Dave walk you through two sample Critical Reasoning “Weakening” questions. Test out your skills and learn how to work efficiently without getting distracted by tricky answer choices. Looking for more CR help? Earlier installments of this CR lesson feature tips on tackling assumption, strengthening, and weakening questions. Check all the videos out here!

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In this video, Jen and Dave will run through the basics of “weaken” CR questions. In past CR videos, you’ve learned how to strengthen a CR argument; now learn to identify answer choices that act as weakeners. As Jen and Dave explain, two of the most common ways an answer choice will weaken a CR argument include: Invalidating an assumption on which the argument depends Providing a piece of evidence that makes the conclusion less… Read more

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In earlier segments of this Critical Reasoning lesson, Jen and Dave explained the best ways to approach GMAT Critical Reasoning “strengthen” questions. Now, in the fourth installment of the lesson, it’s your turn to test your skills with two sample questions. Jen and Dave will give you time to tackle the question on your own, and then walk you through the easiest, most efficient way to arrive at the right answer. Remember to look out… Read more

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