will probability be tested on the GMAT?

[NabeelZ316]

Hi

So Im almost done reading the Manhattan MATH books for GMAT. Im going through the last one, number properties. I have not come across probability yet.
So just wanted to come here and confirm if its important to learn probability?
if yes, then which book should i study?

[RonPurewal]

probability is not a MAJOR topic. in all likelihood, you'll get 1 probability question in your official test.

probability is in the number properties guide, so you'll find a decently extensive treatment of it there.
you don't have to know much about it, other than that...
...you can multiply together the probabilities for consecutive or simultaneous events
...you can add together the probabilities for separate events either of which can occur
...the probability that something WON'T happen is 1 minus the probability that it WILL happen.

beyond that, there isn't really much else to know -- the GMAT probability problems are pretty much exercises in combining these basic facts.

that doesn't necessarily mean they are easy, of course. (the GMAT can make challenging problems out of even elementary arithmetic!) but, you don't have to study tons of stuff.
just be attentive to how these different rules COMBINE in different problems.

[NabeelZ316]

thank u so much!

[RonPurewal]

you're welcome.