Jeff Sackman Challenge Set vs. Fundamentals Set?

hey thanks bmillan01 - but do you feel I should be doing both fundamental and challenge sets or just the challenge sets are enough?

I agree the end of MGMAT chapters aren't great... I need far more practice to 'cement' each concept in my brain.

thanks

Sorry for not directly answering your questions sooner.

But for me, the fundamental sets, while mostly easy, really cemented the concepts at that level. This, in turn, allowed me to advance to the next level, and then to the Extreme Challenge Set. At that point, I was ready (more or less) for the GMATClub Tests. So, in my opinion, the fundemental sets were absolutely worth it.

cool thanks! and , last question I promise - this is quite important for me as I am planning to do the exam in 7 weeks (postponed it again due to quant. weakness) how long did it take you to do all the questions, and what was your plan of attack (study plan, hours each day on the questions etc.)

No problem! Ask as many questions as you want. I will do my best to answer them.

It took me about two months to finish all of Sackmann's questions and the GMATClub tests, along with the OG math questions. I basically studied all day. At my peak, I could practice and review about 100 questions per day. It was rough, but I have no regrets. Also, make sure that you read every explanation thoroughly.

This method, however, may not be suited for you. Maybe you can do more, and maybe you cannot. Just find a plan that works for you and be persistent. Don't stop improving. Once you feel burnt out with questions, switch to re-reading the math guides. And once you are exhausted from reading, switch back to the questions. This was hell, but it was my only chance to score well. I literally had no other choice.

But I would also suggest that you start immediately, as in right now.

yep alerady have started! I was thinking of doing every 2nd, or even every 3rd, question in each guide. This will cut the momentous 1800 questions down to 600, which on top of the 400 from OG and 150 + questions from the Q.Review, should be around 1000 questions, probably a lot more manageable in the shgort time frame.

Btw, how did you study verbal?

thanks

I'm also reading some good reviews about Jeff Sackmann's books. What do you guys think about NOVA's GMAT prep for quant and verbal part?

I have his book, Total Gmat math, would you suggest buying the complete set of 1800, or just 1000 challenge set of questions. I have been away from math for a while, and really need to improve and get some practice.

While 1000 questions sounds great, try to push yourself to the limit. You might be surprised at how far you can go. For verbal, I used the Manhattan SC, Powerscore CR, and Powerscore RC. For question practice, the OG is essential. I also used the LSAT SuperPrep, which is a decent source. Read each explanation carefully. The GMATClub forums, of course, have many good verbal questions. Try to answer those and defend your choice with a solid explanation. That helps quite a bit.



I don't know much about Nova. It doesn't receive that much coverage, so maybe the Manhattan math series is a safer bet. Still, if my memory is correct, bb stated that Nova had some decent stuff.



It depends on where you stand in terms of quant performance. If you score somewhere in the 600-level for quant, then the challenges sets should be a good place to start. If you really need to start from the basics, then look for the fundamental sets. If you're a quant superstar, then focus on the GMATClub Tests and Sackmann's Extreme Challenge set.



Good luck, everyone!

Thank you for your response, my goal is a 720+(need to make up for undergrad follies), I am currently in the 600 range. I am actually in a very similar boat that you were when you took the GMAT. I started miserable, and am currently slogging through quant. So after the 1000 challenge question, the idea is to move onto the GMATCLUB math?

Thanks @bmillan01. I finished MGMAT books and felt that I need more questions targeted practice. I'll complete NOVA GMAT Prep ( because I bought it:) ) and move on to other material.

I wouldn't fix it as a rule, but that's the general idea. Once you feel comfortable with Sackmann and the OG, then it's time for the GMATClub Tests. But don't understimate those! They are super tough. I would spend hours on each test.

After some time, you should be able to find a way to cover the maximum amount of questions in least amount of time. In other words, maybe you'll be ready for the GMATClub Tests sooner than expected. In that case, you can use both resources alongside one another. That's what I did toward the end.


Interesting. When you're finished with that book, please consider posting a review on it.

Sure. I'll post my review.

Thank you, I have a question for you. What did you use for number properties? I am doing well with equations and geometry. But Number properties have thrown me for a loop, any suggestions?

MGMAT number properties guide is pretty thorough. I would suggest MGMAT book first.
Check this out too.
gmat-math-book-87417.html

Thanks, I should have mentioned I have read through MGMAT twice. I will check out the link, thanks.

I think bmillan01 or bunel will be able to provide correct information. Check out this link.
best-gmat-math-prep-books-reviews-recommendations-77291.html?highlight=ml307

How was Powerscore Critical Reasoning? I'm using MGMAT right now. I'm alright with CR, but have difficulty with 700 level questions for that area.

Did Powerscore CR push you over the hump?