GMAT Debrief:The GMAT debrief is a very important part of GMATClub. Members learn a great deal from the test experience and insights of others. It will also help the community to provide you with recommendations if you are not satisfied with the result and plan on retaking. The debrief can also bring a sense of closure for the author, as well as some kudos points! Here are a few ideas to help you to recount your own personal GMAT experience.
1. Gather your thoughtsThe GMAT will leave you emotionally and mentally exhausted. Take a moment to settle down and collect your thoughts, but don’t take too long or forget to post your debrief!
2. The Meat of the DebriefPlease include as much detail as possible - that makes the story very personable and interesting to read. Some suggestions to include are:
- Books & materials used
- Test scores you received along the way (your diagnostic test score, mid-point, comparison to your final performance, etc.)
- Background information (education, employment, etc.)
- Length of study
- General strategy
- If you have created notes or any kind of interesting or valuable resources, consider attaching them with your post.
- If you found any interesting blogs or materials online, consider providing a link.
- Words of Advice
- Things you wish you knew
- Things you have learned
- Things you wasted your time on
- Finally, your test experience
And be sure to offer some advice and product reviews for those still studying. You are the expert and perhaps thousands of people will read your debrief and will try to follow in your footsteps.
3. OrganizationTry to present the information in a logical, easy-to-follow format. Use paragraph breaks for new topics or to divide big blocks of information. Also consider lists, as well as bold headings and different font sizes (such as Header2 and Header3 buttons we have). Correct grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation also help. For more help with formatting,
see here.
4. Updates Don’t forget to check your thread! Sometimes we forget to add a few things while first preparing the debrief. Don’t hesitate to edit your post. Interested members may also ask you a few questions; try to answer them.
Complaints and Frustration:Sooner or later, we all become fed up with the GMAT. Some express their problems on the forums and seek advice, while others simply need an outlet to vent their frustration. Either way, these posts are welcome on the forums. After all, members are here to help one another. But please consider the following while typing these posts.
1. Specifics Please explain your problems with as much detail as possible. Include your study habits, length of study, and materials used. If you can, also describe the problem. If there’s anything else relevant to add, then please do so.
2. LanguageAlthough our emotions can overwhelm us during these troubled times, try to avoid profanity. You’re much more likely to receive a prompt and helpful response this way.
3. Don’t stay too negativeSometimes it really feels too difficult to see the bright side of things. This is especially true in the opening post. But try to be open-minded with replies. Remaining negative or curtly dismissing anyone’s attempt to help will only further alienate yourself and prevent you from achieving your goals.
My GMAT Journey:These threads are among the most interesting contributions on the forums. Indeed, mini-communities can form within these threads as well as many discussions independent of the original author! As such, managing this type of thread requires more commitment than the other two previously mentioned. It’s also more difficult to offer specific advice. Still, there are at least three things to keep in mind.
1. Update RegularlyWhile we certainly don’t demand a daily update, try to maintain a consistent schedule - this will hep you to stay on track as well and keep a schedule. Even if you have nothing major to post, it wouldn’t hurt to reply to comments or perhaps even ask questions of your own. Let followers know that you’re there.
2. Answer Questions These threads are fascinating and attract a great deal of attention, so expect some questions. In fact, you may be bombarded by many questions! Try to answer them and encourage people as much as possible.
3. The End As a courtesy to your followers, make sure to inform them your GMAT journey is over. Also include your debrief or provide a link to it.
Audience:1. Read the postBefore commenting, make sure to read the whole post. Sometimes, the answer to your question is already provided.
2.GratitudeIf the debrief helps you in any way, make sure to thank the person and perhaps even award a kudos. People who spend the time to prepare an informative and interesting debrief deserve as much credit as we can give them.
3. Be politeIf you find a particular GMAT Experience post incomplete or want further information, then point this out. But do so in a civil manner. Any rudeness will
NOT be tolerated. This, by the way, is not a suggestion.
4. Padding of postsDon't use debriefs for excessively padding your posts. Although there's no specific numerical guideline to follow, common sense should be enough. But perhaps an example will help clarify the matter: one recent member posted over 200 "congratulations!" replies in less than three hours. Don't do that.
Examples:1. Debrief2. Complaints and Frustration3. My GMAT Journey4. AudiencePlease keep in mind, though, that these tips are merely friendly suggestions and in no way are members required to adopt a specific standard for these threads. We want all members to be themselves, and anything that you contribute will be greatly appreciated.
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16 Aug 2010, 10:44
