DAT Quantitative Reasoning Tips: How to Boost Your Score on the Math Section

Apr 25

Written By DSD .

Struggling with the DAT Quantitative Reasoning section? This guide breaks down proven tips to study for DAT math, improve speed, and raise your DAT score fast.

If you're prepping for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), you already know that every section matters. But the Quantitative Reasoning section, often referred to as the "math section," can be a make-or-break moment—especially since it comes last on the exam.

In this blog post, we’ll cover top DAT Quantitative Reasoning tips to help you study smarter, manage your time, and maximize your math score on test day.

🧮 What Is the DAT Quantitative Reasoning Section?

The Quantitative Reasoning (QR) section of the DAT tests your problem-solving skills in a variety of math topics. It includes 40 questions to be completed in 45 minutes and covers:

Algebra
Word problems
Data analysis and statistics
Conversions and proportions
Geometry and trigonometry
Quantitative comparisons

This section isn't just about solving equations—it's about doing it fast and accurately.

✅ Top DAT Quantitative Reasoning Tips for Success

1. Practice Mental Math & Estimation

Many questions can be solved faster using quick estimates, and while a basic on-screen calculator is available, it's slow and clunky.

🔹 Why it matters:
Relying less on the calculator = more time for tough problems.

🔹 Quick wins:

Practice fraction and decimal conversions
Get comfortable rounding and estimating
Use mental math to check your work quickly

2. Know When to Skip and Return

Don’t get stuck! If a problem looks too time-consuming, flag it and move on.

🔹 Pro tip:
Finish all the easier problems first, then come back for the harder ones. This ensures you collect the most points in the shortest time.

3. Master the Most Tested Math Topics

Here’s what to focus on when studying for DAT Quantitative Reasoning:

Exponents and roots
Ratios, proportions, and percentages
Distance = rate × time problems
Probability and statistics
Geometry formulas (area, volume, angles)
Right triangle trigonometry (SOHCAHTOA)

🔹 Bonus tip:
Create a math formula cheat sheet to review daily.

4. Crush Word Problems with Translation Skills

Word problems test your ability to set up equations correctly—not just your math skills.

🔹 Strategy:

Identify what the question is asking
Highlight numbers and relationships
Translate the text into a math equation

5. Use Process of Elimination

If you're stuck, eliminate clearly wrong answers to increase your odds of guessing correctly.

🔹 Example:
If the question asks for an average, and your answer is outside the number range provided, it’s definitely wrong.

6. Get Comfortable With the DAT On-Screen Calculator

Don’t let the calculator trip you up. It's basic—so use it only when truly necessary.

🔹 Pro tip:
Use DAT practice platforms that simulate the real calculator (like DAT Bootcamp or DAT Destroyer).

7. Take Full-Length Practice Tests

The QR section is last, so mental fatigue is real. Train your brain to stay sharp by doing full-length DAT practice exams under timed conditions.

🔹 Why it helps:
Simulates the real test environment, builds endurance, and boosts confidence.

🧠 Best Resources to Study for DAT Math

If you're wondering how to study for the DAT Quantitative Reasoning section effectively, these tools will help:

DAT Bootcamp – great for practice problems and simulated tests
DAT Destroyer Math Section – challenging but helpful for mastering concepts
Khan Academy – for quick concept reviews
Anki – for memorizing formulas and shortcuts

🎯 Final Thoughts: How to Raise Your DAT QR Score

Improving your DAT QR score doesn’t require advanced math skills—it requires smart test-taking strategies, targeted practice, and time management.

Stay consistent, review your weak spots, and simulate the real test environment as often as possible.

Want a Personalized DAT Math Study Plan?
At Dental School Declassified, we offer consultations, custom study plans, and 1:1 tutoring to help you master every section of the DAT—including Quantitative Reasoning. Book your session today and take the stress out of studying.

DSD .