1st attempt at GMAT today- 600 (V36, Q36)

Hey everybody,

I took my first official GMAT today and I got a 600! Not the best score in the world but I'm not too disappointed. My first practice test was only 430! I am proud to have come this far. And I am so glad I took this first test. The testing experience has given me the confidence to tackle it again and try for a better score. I was so relaxed in that test center- perfect temperature, quiet, no kids around. It was awesome.

BUT, I could have done much better. I guessed on at least 8 of the math problems! Not because I couldn't solve them but because I couldn't solve them in time and I had to make a choice to move forward or not finish the exam.

For the verbal, even though I scored in the 73rd percentile, and that's not too shabby, I also could have done better. I was so hungry by problem 27 that the screen started spinning. I should have ate my peanuts during the break! The last reading set was a blurr...I forced myself not to rush but my concentration was very low. I know that is where I took a hit with errors.

So I really want to do some more prep and try for a better score. I want to get a 720 or more. I'm not trying to get into a fancy MAcc program but I do eventually want to apply to a PhD program; stipends are based heavily on the GMAT score, so I MUST improve. For the sake of my children. I am giving myself a month for rest then I plan to get back to studying.

But I am wondering what else I can do to study? My study regime consisted of working through the OG guide twice, redoing all incorrect problems on my own and then watching the video tutorials on https://www.gmatquantum.com for the incorrect problems. The videos were EXTREMELY helpful. I love that guy! But I am bored of the GMAT guide. I seriously need some fresh material. I have tried other brands of study material but the problems don't "feel" the same. I don't think they are helpful for my needs.

Does anyone know when the 13th edition will come out? Should I order the older paper tests? Will they still be helpful? Does the GMAT quant guide have different problems from the official guide. Any advice will be much appreciated.

Thanks for reading if you made it through to the end of this. Not as elaborate as some of the others but my plan wasn't very planned. I just studies in between the screams of my children for a couple of months. Now here I am...ready to study again!

Who knew it would happen to me- GMAT addict!