UCAT Course Quantitative Reasoning
Quantitative Reasoning (QR) is the third section of the UCAT, and it’s designed to assess how well you can solve problems using numerical data. This is not just about being good at maths—it’s about thinking clearly under pressure and using data quickly and efficiently.
What Does the QR Section Involve?
In this section, you’ll be working with charts, tables, graphs, and sometimes maps or diagrams. Several multiple-choice questions follow each data set, and your task is to extract the right information and make rapid calculations to find the correct answers.
What makes QR different from traditional maths exams is the emphasis on speed and efficiency. You’ll have:
36 questions in total
2 minutes to read the instructions
26 minutes to complete the questions
That gives you around 43 seconds per question
To succeed, you should aim to answer most questions in 30 seconds or less. This will give you extra time at the end to return to the more challenging questions you flagged along the way.
Structure and Format
Most QR questions come in sets of four, based on a single set of data (e.g. a table or graph).
You'll also find one set of four standalone questions, each with its own unique data source.
The data may look complex at first glance, but remember: it’s designed to test everyone’s ability to stay calm and focused under pressure.
Key Skills You’ll Need
Fast, accurate mental maths: You don’t need to be a maths genius, but you do need to know the basics—percentages, ratios, averages, and simple formulas.
Efficient calculator use: The UCAT onscreen calculator isn’t perfect. You’ll need to be strategic about when to use it and when to rely on your head.
Smart problem-solving: Often, there’s a quicker way to reach the answer. The best candidates learn to spot shortcuts and avoid getting lost in unnecessary calculations.
Data interpretation: You’ll need to identify what the question is asking before diving into the data. This helps you avoid wasting time on irrelevant information.
Top Tips for Tackling QR
Start by reading the question, then examine the data. This helps you focus your attention on finding precisely what you need.
Flag and skip tricky or time-consuming questions. Come back to them later if you have time.
Keep practising with realistic UCAT-style questions. Over time, you’ll build speed, confidence, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Final Thought
Quantitative Reasoning can feel intense, especially when you’re up against the clock. But with regular practice, a strategic approach, and a focus on minimising unnecessary working, you’ll turn this challenge into one of your strengths.
Work smarter, pace yourself, and keep moving forward. That’s the key to success in UCAT QR.