GMAT Data Insights
Table Analysis
Evaluate table statements by targeting the needed columns, filters, and counterexamples.
Goal
Table Analysis asks whether each statement is supported by the data.
The fastest approach is targeted verification, not reading every row and column.
Framework
Process each statement separately.
- 01Read the claim exactly.
- 02Identify the columns needed.
- 03Apply the relevant filter such as region, year, or category.
- 04Check only the rows needed to prove or disprove the claim.
Elimination
One counterexample can disprove a universal claim.
If a statement says every region increased, finding one region that did not increase is enough to mark it false.
Common traps
Watch the label, not just the number.
- 01Total and average are different measures.
- 02Percent and raw count can move differently.
- 03Share and growth answer different questions.
- 04Sorting changes the view, not the underlying data.
Ranking
Rank questions need the correct comparison field.
If the question asks for highest growth, do not sort by total sales. Identify the metric in the claim first.
Timeframe
Trend questions need the correct timeframe.
A row can rise year-over-year while falling quarter-over-quarter. Use the interval named in the statement.
Mini application
Try this: A statement says "Every product with revenue above 100 also has margin above 20%."
What is the fastest way to test it?
Solution
Filter to revenue above 100 and look for any margin at or below 20%.
One such row disproves the statement; if none exists, the statement survives that test.
Remember this
Treat each statement as a targeted data query.
Find the smallest slice of the table that can prove or disprove the exact claim.