Searching for GMAT test prep strategies that help you feel confident going into your test? You’re in the right place. Let’s start by answering a common question…
What Is This Test Called GMAT?
The GMAT is an aptitude test developed and administered by GMAC, a globally recognized test maker to provide business schools with a standard threshold for measuring levels of preparedness for graduate-level academic work.
The GMAT score, along with work experience, academic record, and supporting materials, is used by the admissions department to assess a candidate’s readiness to enroll in an MBA program. As usual, a high level is desirable for this. The test is broken down into four sections with only three combinations on the order in which the test sections can be taken.
The Sections Are Classified As:
- Analytical Writing Assessment that measures critical thinking
- Integrated reasoning measures your ability to analyze data and evaluate information.
- Quantitative reasoning that measures your ability to analyze data and draw conclusions by reasoning
- Verbal reasoning measures your ability to read and understand written and evaluate arguments coupled with corrections of written material to conform to Standard English.
There Are Three Orders You Will Be Able to Choose From:
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative, Verbal
- Verbal, Quantitative, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment
- Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment
It is your choice on the order in which you plan to take the test. This should be entirely your decision based on your practice.
Preparation Strategy for GMAT Test
Take it Early, As Soon as Possible
Most of the Basic Mathematics tested in the GMAT are reasonably confusing but straightforward enough. Especially if you’ve studied math in college, or taken a math class recently.
It would even be more advantageous to take the test while in college, when the ideas are fresh, and you do not have to struggle to remember some basic concepts.
In your second year in college or Third, It would work best as you are almost guaranteed a high score.
Owing to the fact that the score is valid for five years, taking this advantage of time could aid you in making the admissions in your MBA a sliding journey. This lead will put you ahead, with an extra window to garner the experience required before enrolling in the course.
Take Your Practice on a Computer
Practice is the most critical element of your GMAT test prep.
Since this is an extended test that lasts about three hours, you need to be comfortable staring at the computer for almost that amount of time. This will eliminate the chances of eyestrain and ergonomic issues like the sitting position. An advantage of this preparation step is that you leave no options for back pains or Head and neck pains.
Fortunately, the test maker offers official software at the link below
https://www.mba.com/exam-prep/gmat-official-starter-kit-practice-exams-1-and-2-free
Take at least one test, be aware of your body’s response, and try to correct it accordingly. Retake the test until you are comfortable with your score. Keep improving and record the scores on a score sheet. Your sense of confidence during the test will have a real impact on your score.
Use the Elimination Technique
With a little logic, the GMAT becomes a lot easier. Sift through and cast away wrong answers, so that you’re left with only a few solutions to work with.
This technique is, however, best when backed up with some solid knowledge. Make a justification when you rule out an answer. If you’re lost, start eliminating answers until you land on an answer that’s the hardest to disprove.
Set a Time Limit for Individual Questions
Practice giving yourself approximately two minutes to answer questions during your GMAT test prep sessions, adding an extra half minute for the more challenging items.
Some of the more challenging questions require a full two minutes and change to execute. Most of the problems can, however, be answered faster than that, so don’t be afraid to push yourself.
Setting a maximum time at around 2.5 minutes ensures that you will not spend more time on a particular question than expected. This helps in balancing mental energy and the time left to work on the remaining items.
Do everything you can to complete all sections, as completion rate is counted into the GMAT overall score.
Make Use of GMAT Forums & Resources as Much as Possible
If you come across challenging questions during your GMAT test prep, make a note and look them up on GMAT forums or in GMAT test prep books.
GMAT test prep support forums can provide valuable insight and help during your preparation. Double check questions that you’re not sure about, ask people about their experiences, and find perspectives you wouldn’t have considered on your own.
In the forums, it’s always prudent to confirm the reliability of the person posting an answer. That’s true whether you’re in GMAT-Club, GMAT forum, or another useful platform. And remember that published GMAT test prep books can be a valuable tool to back up info found on forums.
Employ the Use of Substitution
Ensure that instead of solving all the test questions during preparations, try plugging possible numbers to minimize the time taken in completing tasks. This comes in handy, especially in algebraic equations. The numbers you choose must be easy to work with.
Stay Confident, and Seek Out Help When You Need It
Remember, finding a tutor is always a great way to boost your test scores on a challenging test like the GMAT. Don’t be afraid to seek out a tutor for even a session or two. You’ll be amazed by the results!
David Kiura