GMAT Ninja Quant Ep 13: Overlapping Sets

Summary

Charles from GMAT Ninja delivers an in-depth guide on overlapping sets, a minor GMAT quant topic, in episode 16 of his series. He introduces a double set matrix for efficient problem-solving, presents nine example questions with varying difficulties, and offers shortcuts for complex language in questions. The video is tailored for different skill levels, focusing on maximizing scores and minimizing study time on this 3% represented topic.

Takeaways

• 📚 Charles from GMAT Ninja introduces Episode 16, focusing on Overlapping Sets and Venn Diagrams, a minor topic in GMAT Quant.
• 🔢 The video covers nine example questions, including two and three overlapping sets, and provides a shortcut for solving them efficiently.
• 💡 A double set matrix is recommended over Venn diagrams for clarity and simplicity when dealing with complex overlapping sets.
• 👨‍🏫 The video is ideal for those new to GMAT, looking to improve efficiency in overlapping sets, or needing help with complex language in questions.
• 📉 Overlapping sets account for only about 3% of GMAT Quant questions, so Charles advises not to over-study this topic unless aiming for a very high score.
• 🧩 The script uses a step-by-step approach to solve problems, emphasizing the importance of understanding the question before attempting to answer.
• 🗣️ Language nuances are highlighted as crucial, especially when the question asks for percentages of different groupings within the sets.
• 📝 Data sufficiency in overlapping sets is addressed, with tips on how to avoid unnecessary re-drawing of diagrams and focus on the given information.
• 🤔 The video addresses the complexity of certain questions, suggesting that not all students need to master the most difficult variants unless aiming for a top score.
• 📈 Emphasis is placed on the importance of reading questions carefully, especially in the context of GMAT's overlapping sets, where subtle changes in language can alter the answer.
• 🏆 The final message is that while the video challenges viewers with complex examples, it is not necessary for all test takers to master these for a satisfactory GMAT Quant score.

Q & A

What is the main topic of episode 16 in GMAT Ninja's comprehensive quant series?

The main topic of episode 16 is overlapping sets, also known as Venn diagrams, which are a minor topic in the GMAT quant section.

What percentage of GMAT quant questions typically involve overlapping sets?

Approximately three percent of GMAT quant questions are expected to involve overlapping sets.

What is a recommended method for organizing information in overlapping sets problems according to Charles from GMAT Ninja?

Charles recommends using a double set matrix instead of a Venn diagram for organizing information in overlapping sets problems due to its simplicity and effectiveness.

What is a common mistake made by test takers when dealing with overlapping sets questions on the GMAT?

A common mistake is not reading the questions carefully, especially the denominators, which can lead to incorrect answers.

How many example questions are covered in episode 16 to illustrate the overlapping sets concept?

Nine example questions are covered in the video to illustrate the overlapping sets concept, including those with two and three overlapping sets.

What is a 'word soup' in the context of GMAT questions?

In the context of GMAT questions, 'word soup' refers to the complex and confusing language used in the questions that can make it difficult for test takers to understand what is being asked.

What is a data sufficiency question in the GMAT quant section?

A data sufficiency question is a type of question that requires test takers to determine whether the given statements provide enough information to answer a specific question, often involving overlapping sets or other quantitative concepts.

What is a shortcut mentioned in the video for handling data efficiency questions in overlapping sets?

The shortcut mentioned for handling data efficiency questions is to invest time in the question stem first and avoid jumping into the answer choices too quickly, which can save time and prevent mistakes.

What is the focus of the latter half of the video if the viewer's goal is to achieve a high score on the GMAT quant section?

The focus of the latter half of the video is to provide comprehensive coverage of overlapping sets with more complex language and variations, including every possible wrinkle and language tweak seen on the GMAT.

What advice is given for students aiming for a high score on the GMAT quant section regarding the study of overlapping sets?

For students aiming for a high score, the advice is to stick with the video through the entire presentation, learn to handle complex language, and understand all the little language tweaks made on the GMAT for overlapping sets.

What is the importance of understanding the language in GMAT quant questions, especially in overlapping sets?

Understanding the language in GMAT quant questions is crucial because the way questions are phrased can significantly affect the approach to solving them. Misinterpreting the language can lead to incorrect assumptions and answers.