g1m2a3t406 wrote:
Hi everyone,
I took GMAT for the first time in Nov 2006 and I got 350(Q31, V9). Then I got OG11 and Princeton Review 2006 edition and studied them. I did all of the questions in OG11 and did review my errors several times. Then, I took the PrepGMAT tests 5 times and my scores were between 350 to 490 and my quantitative scores were between 29 to 42. Then, I took the GMAT for the second time yesterday Nov 27, 2006 and I got 370(Q29, V31).
Even though I feel very bad and stupid, I do not want to give up. Now, I am planning to take for the third times sometimes in end of the April 2007.
Now, I would like you to give your frank suggestion about what exactly do I need to do if I want to get score around 600. Just to let you know that English is my second language and obviously it is my biggest weakness; especially, the critical reasoning section.
Please tell me, what should I do? Thank you very much
First of all don't despair. There is a lot of room for improvement and with hard work you can only go up.
The problems I see
1) Your quant is well below the average. The score range you mentioned in your Prep tests says that you have the capability to hit the 40+ mark but your performance is not consistent. My advice would be acquire thorough knowledge of the basic and practice till your performance is consistent. IMO, inconsistency is a sign that you are not prepared. So go ahead and hit the books again. Review the errors but do not memorize them, understand how a particular problem is solved.
2) Regarding english being your second language. A huge percentage of GMAT takers have the problem but still do fine. Again the key here is to understand and practice. Understand the basics of grammar, this will help you in sentence correction. Use the verbal forum on this site. There are many english gurus there who will help you improve. For critical reasoning too, you need practice. Understand what exactly is being asked. GMAT, IMO has a pattern when it comes to CR. The key is to identify that pattern. If you cannot take time out to use the verbal forum. I would suggest that you buy the Manhattan book for SC, Download the CR1000 document from the verbal forum.
I hope this helps. Remember before you decide to take the GMAT again, check whether your performance in the Prep is consistent.