# GRE Numeric Entry: Rules, Rounding and Example | topin

GRE guidesNumeric Entry

Section

Quantitative Reasoning, at least one in most sections

Format

One box for an integer or decimal; two boxes for a fraction

Fractions

Equivalent forms are accepted and need not be reduced

Rounding

Enter the exact answer unless the question tells you how to round

Calculator

The on-screen calculator can transfer its result straight into the box

## How it works

You work out a number and type it in. A single box takes an integer or decimal, including a negative sign or decimal point; two stacked boxes take a numerator and a denominator. Units such as $ or % may be printed beside the box, and any rounding instruction is given in the question. With no choices to check against, a small slip goes straight into a wrong answer.

## Worked example

A jacket's price was raised by 20 percent, and the new price was then reduced by 25 percent. The final price was $54\. What was the original price, in dollars?

Show the answer

60

Let the original price be p. After a 20 percent rise it is 1.2p, and after a 25 percent cut it is 0.75 × 1.2p = 0.9p. So 0.9p = 54 and p = 60\. Check: 60 × 1.2 = 72, and 72 × 0.75 = 54\. A common wrong answer is 54 ÷ 0.95 ≈ 56.84, from treating the changes as a net 5 percent fall; successive percentage changes multiply, they do not add.

## A method for Numeric Entry

1. 1  
### Note what the box expects  
Before solving, check whether there is one box or two, which units are printed beside it and whether the question asks for rounding, a percent or a particular unit.
2. 2  
### Solve fully and precisely  
Estimation that works on multiple choice is not enough here. Keep exact values, such as fractions, until the last step to avoid rounding errors along the way.
3. 3  
### Check the answer against the question  
Make sure you found the quantity asked for, not an intermediate value, and that it is sensible in size. Substituting it back, as in the example, is the quickest check.
4. 4  
### Apply units and rounding  
If the box is followed by %, enter 12 for 12 percent, not 0.12\. Round only at the end and only as instructed, for example to the nearest tenth.
5. 5  
### Enter and reread  
Type the answer, or use the calculator's transfer button, then read the entry against your working. Check signs and decimal points in particular.

## Traps to avoid

* Entering a decimal such as 0.12 when a % sign is printed after the box and the answer should be 12.
* Answering in the wrong unit, such as minutes when the question asks for hours.
* Rounding in the middle of a calculation, so the final answer is slightly off.
* Typing an intermediate result, such as the price after the first change instead of the original price.
* Adding successive percentage changes instead of multiplying them.

## Numeric Entry FAQs

Do I need to simplify fractions on GRE Numeric Entry?

No. Equivalent fractions are accepted, so 6/8 scores the same as 3/4\. Only simplify if the numbers are too large to fit.

Can I enter a decimal instead of a fraction?

Only if the question gives a single box. When it gives two boxes for a numerator and denominator, you must enter a fraction.

What if my answer does not match the rounding asked for?

Enter the answer rounded exactly as the question states, for example to the nearest whole number. If no rounding is mentioned, the answer is exact.

Can I guess on Numeric Entry?

Yes, and you should rather than leave it blank, since wrong answers cost nothing. An estimate from your working has a far better chance than an empty box.

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