GMAT Scratch Paper: What’s Allowed & How to Use It Effectively

One of the rules when taking the GMAT exams is to refrain from bringing writing materials into the exam room. However, every student gets a scratchpad and a non-permanent marker to take notes during the GMAT exams. The GMAT scratch paper is a new tool for most students. You will want to practice using it before the exams to ensure you’re confident on the test day.

This article will discuss a GMAT scratch paper, how to make one, and how to use it effectively in the exam. Keep reading.

What is a GMAT Scratch Paper?

This is a laminated scratch pad with yellow grid lines and double-sided pages. It is almost the size of a legal pad with a plastic surface. It looks like a combination of an erase board and a flip pad. It resembles an erase board, although you cannot erase anything from it. The scratch pen is a non-permanent wet marker about the same size as a regular Sharpie.

Can You Use Scratch Paper on the GMAT?

Yes, but not the traditional kind you’re probably thinking of.

The GMAT doesn’t allow regular scratch paper and pens. Instead, for in-person exams, you’ll be given a laminated noteboard (often called a scratch pad) along with non-permanent markers. These wet-erase booklets are used to work out calculations, jot down notes, or organize your thoughts throughout the test.

If you’re taking the GMAT Online, you’ll need to supply your own physical whiteboard that meets GMAC’s specific requirements (usually 12 x 20 inches or smaller). Alternatively, you can use an online whiteboard tool built into the testing platform — but many test-takers prefer the physical option for speed and comfort.

So, yes — you do get a place to write during the exam. It just won’t be your usual pen and notebook setup.

What Kind of Scratch Paper Is Provided?

In a test center, you’re given a double-sided laminated booklet — about 5–6 sheets bound together — and a wet-erase marker. The surface feels like a whiteboard, and you can’t tear out pages or request more unless you fill the whole thing (which is rare).

Here’s what’s typically included:

• Laminated scratch pad (about 11 x 17 inches folded into a booklet)
• Non-permanent marker (usually black)
• A flat surface to write on — but you’ll want to practice ahead of time to avoid surprises

Pro tip: The booklet has a bit of a glossy surface, so smudging is possible if you’re not careful. Writing small and staying organized will help you get the most out of the limited space.

How to Get a GMAT Test Simulation Booklet

A test simulation booklet almost resembles a GMAT scratch pad. You can get one from Amazon by Manhattan or create your own at home. The Manhattan scratchpad has a marker, ensuring you get an experience similar to what you expect on the test day. Alternatively, you can DIY by purchasing a yellow grid legal pad and a slender marker about the same size as a Sharpie. The DIY version is different, but it gives the same size and feel as scratch paper. This ensures that you are not completely blindsided by it in the exam room. You can also use a GMAT online scratch paper alongside the stated options. The software is available at MBA.com for free. 

How to Use the GMAT Scratch Paper Effectively

Divide the scratch paper into sections

Dividing the scratch paper into sections enables you to stay organized. Before starting a section of the exams, you can divide a paper or two into square sections. Label each square according to the number of questions in that section. That way, you will have room for calculating each question while tracking the number of problems you have solved. This is an excellent way to locate where you have solved each problem when writing down your answers.

Note down the main points

Overusing a GMAT scratch paper can take up most of your time if you want to note down everything. Practice identifying the main concepts the question is testing in your head at home. This will make it easier for you to know what is worth noting. Additionally, practice computing simple calculations in your head at home to avoid writing down everything.

Time management

The GMAT scratch paper is a great tool to help you to manage your time if you struggle with time management. You can indicate when you are given to complete a section on top of the page. From here, allocate the time to complete a question on its square. In that way, you will know whether you need to catch up or move at a good pace. 

Another way to manage time is by using the extra time from another section to set up the scratch paper for the next section. Additionally, you can use the few minutes of your break to section your scratch paper. This saves valuable time you would have taken to section it when beginning a section.

Practice writing using a small font.

Using small fonts will enable you to save space on your scratch paper—practice using smaller letters at home with your GMAT simulation booklet. Large fonts will make things complicated and visually confusing for you. 

While doing so, experiment with different ways of placing your scratch paper. You could do this vertically and horizontally, then decide what works best.

Ask for another scratchpad in between sections.

If you run out of space in your scratchpad, you can request a new one from the exam proctor. There is no limitation on how many scratchpads you can use during the GMAT exams. The perfect time to do this is in between sections. This ensures that you have an uninterrupted thought process throughout a section. It also enables you to avoid wasting time allocated to a section.

Scratch Paper Tips for Different Sections of the GMAT Exams

The GMAT exam has four sections. These sections vary from each other according to the content they test. A student can use the scratch paper differently for each section.

You need tips on how to use it, mainly for the Quant and Verbal sections.

Quant section

The quant section does not have an onscreen calculator. That means all your calculations will be done by hand on scratch paper. Try jotting down the preliminary information about a question before beginning your calculations. Use the elimination method for data-sufficiency questions to cross out incorrect answers on your scratch paper.

Verbal section

It can take time to figure out what to write down in the verbal section. Use your scratch paper in this section to note significant points, including disproofs, main ideas, and evidence from the comprehension. It’s essential to do this because the comprehensions are lengthy and accompanied by many questions. You can also use it to eliminate incorrect answers.

The scratch paper is wide, and you can use it for all the sections of the GMAT exams. Use it however you wish for as long as it helps you get the correct answers.

Following these expert tips will ensure you use your scratchpad effectively during the exams—practice as often as possible on how to use it. You can begin your GMAT preparation early for ample time. Enroll with a top-rated GMAT prep course like AnalystPrep to maximize your GMAT score. 

FAQs About GMAT Scratch Paper

1. Can I use scratch paper on the GMAT?

Not exactly. The GMAT doesn’t allow standard scratch paper. At a test center, you’ll be provided with a laminated scratch pad and a wet-erase marker. For GMAT Online, you’re allowed to use a physical whiteboard that meets GMAC’s guidelines, or the built-in digital whiteboard.

2. Do you get scratch paper on the GMAT?

Yes — but in the form of a laminated noteboard booklet. You can use it for calculations, diagrams, or jotting down notes. It’s not paper, but it serves the same purpose.

3. Is pen and paper allowed in GMAT?

No. Traditional pen and paper are not permitted. Test centers provide a marker and laminated booklet. If you’re testing online, you can’t use a pen or paper either — only an erasable whiteboard or the online tool.

4. Can I use rough paper in GMAT?

No rough paper is allowed. You must use the official materials provided or approved (e.g., laminated noteboards or whiteboards).

5. How to prepare for GMAT from scratch?

Start by understanding the test format and sections. Build a study plan that includes official guides, practice questions, and mock exams. AnalystPrep’s GMAT packages include adaptive question banks and detailed video lessons to help you master every section — even if you’re starting from zero.

6. How much scratch paper will they give you for the GMAT?

At the test center, you’ll receive a laminated booklet with about 5–6 double-sided pages, bound at the top like a calendar. You’ll also get a wet-erase marker to use during the exam. If you fill up all the pages (which is rare), you can request a replacement from the proctor.