Cracked 700: My experience with Princeton review-Hyderabad

1. Experience with TPR: It all began in the month of May, when I decided to take a shot at the GMAT. Though I did some initial researching regarding the GMAT, I was sure of one thing: I needed expert help and advice as I have been out of touch for over two years in matters of maths and english. So I inquired about the TPR GMAT course and was informed that it was of two and half months duration (3 hrs on weekends). It suited me perfectly and I was also impressed with the behavior and cordiality of the TPR staff (especially Sai). He was extremely helpful and explained to me the entire process from the start to the end. I was also introduced to the Center Manager and though he was busy, took time out to explain the various details and nuances regarding the GMAT and the admission process. All the TPR people I have encountered till now were very cordial, humble and down to earth. They were always ready to clear any doubts I had and made sure I did not face any problems during the period of the course and even after it was over. All in all, it was a very pleasant and memorable experience which I will cherish for the rest of my life.

2. Interaction and experience with the faculties: After joining the course, I was a bit apprehensive regarding the faculties, I mean will they be helpful, will they be able to clear my doubts, will they pay attention to the individual needs and so on. However all such doubts were put to rest after the first two classes. Both my Quant (Abhijit) and Verbal (Subhodip) faculties were top notch and ready for any challenges which we posed to them, Well versed in their respective fields, both took pain to explain any doubts which I had. Abhijit was instrumental in teaching me how to tackle quant questions within the allotted time by applying specific techniques. After one month, I was capable of solving 37 questions within 75 min. Subhodip, your are my guru, I simply can't thank you enough. With V19 in the 1st mock, I was staring at the end of a tunnel with no ray of hope at the other end. But he was ready for the challenge. He told me not to worry at all and assured me that it will definitely improve over time. He taught me the various rules and POE tools and also how to apply them efficiently. He also told me that it's not about solving tons of questions but to be consistent from the beginning. Even when my course was over, if I had any doubts he was always available to clear the same. The tips he taught me were very helpful in tackling verbal questions and his methods were definitely one of the reasons why I was able to score V36 in the final exam.

3. Preparation and process of approach: Working full time and preparing for a exam like GMAT is not easy. I was aware of this and made sure that I utilize my resources in the optimum fashion. I made sure that I devoted 2-3 hrs each day on weekdays and 4 hrs on the weekends along with the coaching. The faculties imparted all the knowledge required for solving the questions and then it is up to me to go through all of them. I realized that it was impossible to remember each techniques and concentrated on the basics first. Once the basics were firm, I identified at max 2-3 techniques which suited me the best and concentrated on solving the questions using those techniques. This process helped me to solve questions comfortably as I knew that if one technique failed, I had one or two extra for backing me up.

4. Suggestion for upcoming test takers: There are many, but I will keep this to the bare minimum. Be CONSISTENT throughout, as Subhodip advised me. I found this to be very helpful. It's equally important not to burn out during the process also. Do not try to overdo yourselves. Rather than learning lots of techniques and taxing your brain, learn and practice 2-3 techniques at max for each question types and apply them in solving the same. Before the test day, SLEEP well to replenish yourselves for the final battle. On the test day, be relaxed and tension free. Worrying won't solve anything. Have faith in yourselves and give your best. If you give your best, the result will automatically take care of itself. But the most important tip, I think was definitely given by Rohini Mam: Respect the exam, give the due it deserves.