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Two-Part Analysis questions in the GMAT Data Insights section present a single prompt followed by a dual-answer table. You must select one answer for each of two related components from parallel columns. This format tests your ability to evaluate complex relationships, reason systematically, and solve multi-layered problems.
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Two-Part Analysis (TPA) questions in the GMAT’s Data Insights section are designed to test structured decision-making across two dimensions. Each question presents a short scenario followed by a dual-column answer table. Your task is to select one answer per column that together satisfy the requirements given in the prompt. The format is flexible and may involve numerical reasoning, logical comparisons, or verbal inference. You must carefully analyze relationships, evaluate trade-offs, and match components accurately. TPA questions replicate the analytical reasoning expected of professionals evaluating competing priorities or constraints. They are a reliable test of multi-layered thinking and business problem-solving. To develop the precision and logical structure needed for these questions, a well-designed GMAT prep course can offer structured guidance and consistent practice.
Two-Part Analysis questions begin with a short paragraph that outlines a scenario, often containing numerical, logical, or verbal elements. This is followed by a table with two columns and multiple answer choices, usually five or six, listed in parallel rows. Each answer choice can be selected once per column. Your task is to pick one option in each column that jointly satisfies the conditions set in the prompt. These problems often require comparison, pairing, and constraint satisfaction. For example, a question may ask you to select two investment options, one that maximizes return and one that minimizes risk, based on a short description of market scenarios. In some cases, both answers may come from the same row, while in others, they must be chosen from different rows. This format replicates the kind of structured decision-making that business professionals regularly face. Whether you are evaluating proposals, balancing resources, or allocating budgets, Two-Part Analysis questions train you to think precisely and holistically.
Correct Answer: E and B
Two-Part Analysis problems assess a combination of quantitative, verbal, and logical reasoning abilities. The specific skills required will vary by question type, but the overall framework is consistent:
You must understand how two different conditions interact and influence each other. This could mean aligning two constraints, identifying mutual exclusivity, or satisfying parallel objectives.
When numbers are involved, TPA questions require careful computation and numerical comparison. You may need to set up equations, calculate percentages, or apply algebraic logic to find valid pairs.
In non-mathematical questions, the focus shifts to verbal logic and inference. This involves understanding implications, drawing conclusions, and aligning statements logically.
You must compare multiple options across two dimensions. Evaluating trade-offs, matching positive and negative conditions, or prioritizing opposing objectives are central tasks.
Many TPA questions involve layered constraints. You must pay close attention to what each column asks, especially if one part depends on the outcome of the other.
These questions demand precision and patience. A minor oversight in interpreting the condition or misaligning your selected pair can lead to a wrong answer.
Two-Part Analysis questions vary widely in topic and style. The most common formats include:
You may need to find two values that satisfy two related equations, such as maximizing profit in one case while minimizing cost in another.
You may be asked to pair two statements, such as one that strengthens a conclusion and another that weakens it, from the same list.
You might face business-style cases that require selecting two employees, projects, or strategies based on described goals and trade-offs. For example, a question might say: “A manager must select two consultants for a project. One should have the highest client satisfaction, and the other must have the lowest cost per hour. Choose one name per column.” The options would be listed with performance data, and you would have to evaluate and select accordingly.
A structured approach improves both accuracy and speed on TPA questions. Consider the following tested strategies:
Pay attention to what is being asked of each column. The two components often differ. One may require a maximization goal while the other demands minimization.
Before scanning the options, assign a short label to each column, such as “highest revenue” and “lowest cost.” This prevents confusion and guides your evaluation.
Go through the answer options one row at a time. Ask yourself whether each row contains candidates for both columns or only one. Rule out impossible pairs.
Some questions specify that answers must differ, while others allow duplication. Read carefully to avoid invalid combinations.
After selecting an answer for each column, always double-check that the pair jointly satisfies the conditions. Do not rely on individual correctness alone.
When the logic is difficult, eliminate rows that clearly violate one or both conditions. Narrowing down the pool reduces complexity.
Success on Two-Part Analysis questions comes from both knowing what to do and avoiding costly missteps. The most frequent mistakes include:
Focusing too much on one column while ignoring the other leads to invalid answer pairs.
Rushing through the initial passage can result in misunderstanding the objectives or constraints.
The two answers may very well come from the same row. Do not make unwarranted assumptions.
In logic-based questions, overemphasis on numerical values can cause you to miss key qualitative information.
Each Two-Part Analysis question typically has 5 to 6 answer choices, resulting in 25 to 36 possible combinations. Plug-and-play is inefficient and often ineffective. A logical, constraint-based approach is the only practical method for solving these questions accurately and quickly.
Selecting two seemingly plausible answers without verifying their joint validity leads to preventable errors.
Preparation for Two-Part Analysis questions can be structured into three focused stages: Understand, Practice, and Master. This structured approach will help you build confidence, improve speed, and ensure accuracy under time pressure.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the unique two-column format of TPA questions. Learn how to dissect prompts and identify the core requirement of each column. Pay attention to common traps such as confusing interdependencies, mislabeling of objectives, or overlooking implicit constraints. Focus initially on clarity over speed. Build your foundation with a quality GMAT prep course that teaches how to logically navigate these comparisons.
Once you understand the framework, begin practicing a wide variety of TPA questions. Use official materials and reliable third-party platforms to encounter different formats and logic types. Make sure to analyze each question carefully after solving. Identify where you hesitated, made assumptions, or misunderstood the structure. With repeated exposure, you will learn to recognize standard logic patterns and develop both speed and control. The goal is to build precision through consistent practice.
In this stage, increasingly simulate GMAT full-length test conditions by incorporating TPA questions into your mock exams and timed drills. Focus on developing resilience and staying sharp across multiple question types. Review your performance critically. Look for trends in your errors and continue refining your strategy. By this stage, your goal is to solve TPA questions accurately and confidently without hesitation. This level of mastery ensures that you remain composed on test day.
If you start early enough, experienced MBA admission consulting mentors can support your complete journey. They can guide your GMAT preparation, keep you motivated, help avoid common mistakes, and reinforce the right strategies. Alongside, they can assist in building your profile for strong applications. With consistent guidance, you gain clarity, structure, and momentum in both test prep and the admissions process.
Two-Part Analysis questions challenge your ability to make structured decisions under pressure. They test your capability to compare, coordinate, and conclude across two dimensions, a skill set highly valued in both business school and professional environments. With a disciplined, three-stage preparation framework and steady practice, you can convert this challenging question type into an area of strength. By thinking clearly, reasoning methodically, and acting decisively, you bring the right mindset not only to the GMAT but to the business decisions that await beyond it.
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