Hi, arjungupta.

Although a 640 is quite solid, the gap between your GMATPrep scores and your actual performance is large. How many times did you take the GMATPrep tests? Which guidebooks did you use for studying?

Also, how did you feel during the verbal portion of the test? By then, most test takers are tired from the AWA and quant portions of the test. Asking people to take the verbal section at the end is especially rough for those whose first language isn't English.

Anyway, please provide some details on your verbal studies and the day of the test. I'm sure we can figure out how to improve!
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The first thing to do is take at least one full week off from GMAT. You need a rest. Also, whenever you have time, read this thread: should-i-retake-gmat-thread-retaking-gmat-strategies-83339.html

You have already identified one issue: test exhaustion. It happens to all of us to one degree or another. The best way to minimize this condition is to always practice questions and take CAT's under the exact same conditions as you would for the real test. Don't practice OG on the sofa, for instance. Sit in the computer chair and use a desk. You can even prop up the book vertically to mimic the computer screen. It's also important to use a timer. For CAT's, follow the time limits and breaks exactly. People who don't do these simple procedures are only cheating themselves out of points.

It's equally important to take advantage of the breaks. Take that time to walk around, stretch, splash cold water on your face, and eat something (Snickers, almonds, a banana, Gatorade, etc.). I also find it helpful to look away from the screen and take a deep breath every time a new question appeared on the screen. This reduces neck and eye strain and provides oxygen. You need to maximize your energy reserves because you will definitely begin to run out toward the end.

But now to the books and CAT's. I usually urge others to be conservative with the GMATPrep because those simulations tend to inflate scores after the second time. And the AWA must be included in your tests to practice essays under timed conditions and to get used to taking the entire test. This was probably one reason why you broke down toward the end; you weren't fully conditioned to go through all three sections of the test. This cost you points - points that you already had.

Besides the Manhattan SC, I don't see any other proper guidebooks for verbal. You're quant skills are superb, so we probably don't have to worry about that. Right now, let's focus on verbal.

SENTENCE CORRECTION (SC):
Read the Manhattan SC guide at least one more time. Re-reading is one of the best things that you can do for studying.

CRITICAL REASONING (CR):
The Powerscore CR Bible is the best GMAT guidebook on this topic. This is a must.

READING COMPREHENSION (RC):
Start practicing with LSAT RC passages. These are generally more difficult and complex, so they will build up your stamina. If RC is your weak point, then consider a Powerscore or MGMAT RC guidebook.

While you are improving your verbal skills, go ahead and use the GMATClub Tests to retain you high quant score. Among other things, these tests will definitely strengthen your endurance. Also, if you haven't done so, go ahead and purchase the OG Verbal.
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hey,

Thanks for the suggestions.
I'll make sure i follow the exact test routine this time including AWA.
It was a big mistake not to take AWA!!
I'll make sure this time i do well!

Well manhattan Quant and GMAt quant are a little different. I agree manhattan quant is difficult but its nowhere near what the GMAT would throw at you at a score of 49,50. In GMAt you will always find a bunch of concepts tested together. Somewhere on the forum there is a document that lists all the GATprep questions for math and SC. Do those and you will realize how different quant is on the GMAT.

And Yes, givng the tests with AWA is important as it gives you an indicator of how stressful the real thing can get and also will teach you how to manage stress.

Good Luck.
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http://gmatclub.com/forum/from-690-to-730-q50-v38-97356.html

Hey,

I finally got 710 Q50 V37 AWA 6 IR 5

Took my GMAT again, and guess what I cracked the 700 mark..... !!
Well, I was not able to complete my verbal and had like 1 minute left on clock with 5 more questions to go , so I just picked some random answer and moved ahead....But after a totally messed up history with GMAT feels good to join the 700 club!

Thanks!

That's really nice to hear after your older posts; well done!
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Andy