Quantitative reasoning (QR) assesses a student’s ability to solve numerical problems.
Some students struggle due to not taking A-level Maths, and not having done mental arithmetic and mathematical problem solving work for several years. This is still the case for students taking A-level Maths, as the skill set required is quite different. Thus, it is important to get in as much practice as possible with this particular style of mathematical problems.
There are 36 QR questions, each worth 1 mark to be completed in 26 minutes.
This is the section in which the on-screen calculator is designed to be utilised. It is rather slow, but there are shortcuts which can be used to make it as efficient as possible; however, it is best, where possible, to decrease reliance on the calculator and use mental arithmetics or logical deduction.
QR question types are fairly similar in style with a stem followed by 5 answer options, generally, though not necessarily, in sets of 4/5.
The different types can be categorised by the main numerical/mathematical component involved, including percentages, ratios, averages, financial maths, charts & tables.
The on-screen calculator can be operated by using the mouse cursor, however, it is much faster to use keyboard shortcuts to use the calculator. “Alt + C” brings up the calculator, which can then be moved using the mouse cursor and it remains in the position it is moved to. “/” is used for division, “*” is used for multiplication, “enter” is used to give =, and “backspace” clears the entered values.
Although it is important to be comfortable with operating the on-screen calculator, it is still faster to use mental maths where possible, due to the lag and speed of the calculator inputs.
Estimation is also an essential skill. There are many cases in which reading the answer options first, and realising what is an appropriate estimate using this knowledge can save lots of time and unnecessary calculation steps.
As with every section, timed practice is the most important revision strategy to effectively improve your QR score. It forces students to employ their mental maths and estimation skills. It can also help to focus on different mathematical skills through only doing specific questions of a particular mathematical component in the question banks.
As mentioned, calculator overuse should be discouraged, as it wastes a lot of time, which can be effectively saved through mental maths and estimation.
Calculation errors due to working too fast is also a common mistake. As, unlike in other mathematical assessments, there is generally not enough time to check answers and redo working, so a first time calculation and method is required. However, this does need to be balanced with spending too long on questions.
For Quantitative Reasoning support, Dr Admissions uses the EdUCATe™ method to help students build speed, accuracy and confidence with the most calculation-heavy part of the UCAT. Students are guided to Evaluate their current performance, identify weak question types and spot timing issues; Design a focused revision plan around core skills such as percentages, ratios, averages, rates, graphs and tables; Understand efficient calculation methods and shortcut strategies; Consolidate learning through targeted QR drills; Apply techniques under timed UCAT conditions; and Transform their scores through detailed feedback, mistake analysis and performance tracking. This ensures students do not simply practise more questions, but learn how to solve QR problems faster, avoid common traps and make better decisions under pressure.
The actual difficulty of maths required for the UCAT QR is equivalent to a KS3 level, so in terms of maths techniques and understanding, it is accessible to all students. The difference between someone taking A-level Maths and a candidate who is not, in the QR, would simply come from the frequency and familiarity with working with numeracy, but this can be overcome with practice and expert guidance
Key QR topics include percentages, ratios, fractions, averages, speed-distance-time, area and volume, probability, tax, currency conversion, rates, charts, tables and multi-step calculations.
Quality matters more than volume. Students should combine targeted drills, timed mini-sets, full UCAT practice questions and detailed mistake review to identify exactly where marks are being lost.
