UMAT Study Tips: Section 1 (Logical Reasoning and Problem Solving)

A logical way to approach your UMAT preparation is to break it down into the 3 different sections, and this blog is the first in a series of study tips.

Section 1 of the UMAT is often a matter of being able to read and comprehend copious amounts of information (usually with complex wording) in order to draw conclusions based on relevant facts within the passage. The topic of each passage can vary significantly, and no clear trend has been observed from past UMAT exams. However, the way the information is presented can be broadly split into 4 categories. These are:

1. Logical Reasoning

2. Problem Solving

3. Data Interpretation

4. Research Methods

Let’s go over each category now.

Logical Reasoning

This type of question is comparable to a reading comprehension test. It involves answering a question or multiple questions based on a short extract. The key skill being tested here is your ability to process information and use deductive reasoning to come to a logical answer. The most common pitfall for this type of question is to not read the question carefully enough. Remember to watch out for negatives (e.g. which of the following is NOT true) and definitive statements (e.g. an orange butterfly is ALWAYS a monarch butterfly) when answering this type of question.

Data Interpretation

Data interpretation often involves analyzing a diagram in the form of a graph, chart or table to answer various questions. The key skill being tested here is your ability to decode and synthesize information that is being presented in the diagram. While this might not sound too challenging, there is a chance of making a mistake if you don’t carefully study the diagram. Make sure to read and check the figure title, axis titles, units, and figure legend (where applicable) in order to avoid making a silly mistake.

Research Methods

These questions involve analyzing a scientific study and its key findings. You may have to simplify the experimental design, explain the study aims, interpret the data or generate a hypothesis for the study. So, this is essentially a combination of logical reasoning and data interpretation within a scientific context. The key pitfall for this type of question is making a false assumption, especially with regards to generating a hypothesis or extrapolating data. These types of questions often like to test your understanding of the difference between correlation and causation. So, remember to base your conclusion only on the information provided and avoid bringing your own bias or assumptions into these types of questions.

Problem Solving

Problem-solving questions are often quite challenging and are comparable to thought puzzles. Lateral thinking is often required for this type of question and you’ll have to do things such as mapping out a scenario or completing and comparing various calculations in order to answer the question. I know that sounds rather broad but the best way for you to practice for these questions is to keep doing more of them! As a general tip, I would suggest breaking down the question by writing or drawing it out to make it easier for you to understand.

And that’s it! You should now have a clearer understanding of what to expect in Section 1 of the UMAT exam.