GSM8K
Definition
GSM8K is a benchmark dataset with 8,500 textual grade school math problems.
The dataset was developed to investigate multi-step mathematical reasoning of language models. Problems and solutions are formulated in natural language.
Simply explained
Like a standardized workbook used to check how well models solve calculation steps in word problems.
Why it matters in practice
Relevant for model evaluation and research; a high GSM8K score does not prove general reliability in business practice.
Example from business
A team uses GSM8K alongside their own tasks to comparably test mathematical reasoning of various models.
Limits and pitfalls
- Overlaps between training and test problems can inflate results. A single math benchmark neither proves general intelligence nor reliable financial calculations.
Origin & history
Cobbe et al. published GSM8K in 2021 as part of the work "Training Verifiers to Solve Math Word Problems."
Use in mid-sized companies
- Possible application: part of a technical benchmark set for model selection, supplemented by own domain-specific test cases.
Frequently asked questions
What does GSM8K measure?
Performance on multi-step grade school math word problems. Is a good score sufficient for model selection? No, own tasks, costs, safety, and robustness must also be evaluated.
Sources
- Training Verifiers to Solve Math Word Problems · Cobbe et al. (2021), Training Verifiers to Solve Math Word Problems
- GSM8K · OpenAI, GSM8K
Sources checked on 10.10.2026.
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