Quantitative reasoning secrets for UCAT
For many candidates, Quantitative Reasoning (QR) is the section of the UCAT test that feels most unforgiving - and it’s not hard to figure out why.
With 36 questions to answer in just 26 minutes, you have barely 43 seconds per item - more on UCAT timings in our guide. The pressure is intense: you’ll be faced with complex-looking graphs, data tables that seem overwhelming, and perform multi-step calculations that invite you to lose precious time.
But the reality is that the UCAT is not testing advanced mathematics; instead, it rewards speed, pattern recognition, and the ability to approximate rather than calculate everything to the last decimal. Take a look at our guide to UCAT scoring in 2025 to see the latest changes to how you’ll be scored.
Let’s break down how to approach QR efficiently and with confidence, so you can pass with flying colours on test day.
1. Know what maths you really need
Despite what you may think at first glance, the UCAT is not designed to trip you up with high-level maths. The content is based on stuff you will have mastered at GCSE level: think percentages, ratios, averages, fractions, unit conversions, and basic geometry. If you feel rusty, spend time refreshing these areas before diving into full question practice. Having the fundamentals at your fingertips prevents hesitation on test day and can save you valuable time.
2. The calculator is a tool, not a crutch
During the exam, you’ll have an on-screen calculator available to use, but it’s important not to rely on it too heavily. The on-screen calculator in the UCAT is serviceable but not fast. Over-reliance on it slows you down. Train yourself to perform quick mental calculations for simple additions, multiplications, or percentage changes. For example, if you need 10% of 240, it should be instinctive that the answer is 24. Save the calculator for multi-step or awkward numbers only.
3. Look at the question BEFORE the data
When you come face-to-face with a chart or table, don’t waste precious time trying to absorb all the information straight away. Instead, read the question stem first so you know exactly what to look for. Only then scan the relevant row, column, or data point. This targeted approach avoids drowning in irrelevant detail.
4. An approximation is sometimes enough
Many QR questions allow you to eliminate options quickly without calculating to perfection. For example, if a question asks for the approximate increase in profit between two years, a rough comparison of the numbers may rule out three of the four answers. Practise rounding and estimating confidently - it can save you up to 15 seconds per question. It may not sound like much, but every moment counts during UCAT!
5. Flag and move on
Some QR questions will inevitably take longer than others, particularly those involving multiple calculations - and that’s something you’ll have to come to terms with as part of your revision. If you find yourself stuck, don’t waste two minutes chasing a single mark. Use the flagging tool, take your best guess if necessary, and come back to it later if time allows. Protecting your pacing is more valuable than securing one difficult answer.
6. Spot repeated data sets
In QR, one chart or table will often inform several questions. The time you invest in familiarising yourself with a dataset pays off across multiple items. However, discipline is key: avoid re-reading the entire dataset for each question. Train yourself to remember the structure and only double-check the specific details required.
7. Learn calculator shortcuts
The UCAT calculator allows keyboard shortcuts; the handiest ones include Alt+C to open and close the on-screen calculator, while Alt+N moves to the next question and Alt+P to the previous one. Building muscle memory with these shortcuts makes a real difference. Practise with the calculator in the same format you’ll face on test day, so that it becomes second nature.
8. Train with timing in mind
Unlike other subtests, QR requires you to maintain a very strict pace - remember you have about 43 seconds per question. In practice, set yourself micro-goals: for example, aim to complete a set of 10 questions in 7 minutes. This builds an internal sense of rhythm so that you instinctively know when you’re spending too long on one item.
9. Check errors methodically
Getting a question wrong is not a failure; it’s a lesson. After practice sessions, work backwards: was the error caused by misreading the question, misinterpreting the data, or a calculation slip? Keep a log of your common mistakes and over time, you’ll start to see patterns emerge, and then you can target them directly.
10. Keep calm under pressure
Perhaps the greatest “secret” to QR success is mindset. The section is designed to feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to get every question right in order to achieve a high score. Staying calm, moving steadily, and avoiding panic when faced with dense tables or graphs is what separates strong candidates from the rest.
Despite its surface-level appearance, Quantitative Reasoning is not a maths test in the traditional sense; it’s more a speed test underpinned by basic numeracy. With a strategy-first approach, clever calculator use, and a clear sense of pacing, you can turn what feels like a daunting subtest into an opportunity to score highly. Remember: it’s not about solving every question perfectly, but about maximising marks across the time available.
To give yourself the best chance of success in UCAT Quantitative Reasoning, check out Pastest’s UCAT revision resource!