Most Popular GMAT Questions Answered - Advice on Big Picture Issues That Impact GMAT Test Takers
This series of emails and PMs focuses on situations that Test Takers have faced during their studies. The names of the original posters have been changed to protect their identities.
The Perils of Book-Only Prep
Rich,
I just completed a good stretch of doing and reviewing OG questions. While doing this, I focused on one topic at a time to really drive home what I was learning. I'm ready to move on to more realistic practice sets and looking for advice. I've done the majority of the OG and plan to use the quant/verbal official guide supplements. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Alpha
Dear Alpha,
If you're working out of books only, then you're going to run into a functional problem on Test Day. Working out of books does NOT prepare you for the rigors and physical wear-and-tear of pulling info off of a computer screen, working on a notepad and referring back as needed. Some computer-based prep is definitely advised. MBA.com has a downloadable package of questions and 2 CATs that you can get for free. There are also freebies offered by a variety of companies that will allow you to get some additional computer-based practice. There really is NO SUBSTITUTE for this. The GMAT tests many aspects of your abilities that have nothing to do with math or verbal skills: organization, discipline, pacing, attention to detail, ability to make smart decisions (even when tired or low on time). Without the proper training, and by working with print materials only, your task becomes more difficult.
Does Cramming Work?
Rich,
I only have one month of prep time available before I attempt the gmat for a second time. (so I can apply for the next round deadline). Will I be able to get a 700+ score if I do really intensive prep?
Beta
Dear Beta,
Each Test Taker will vary in how long he/she needs to study for the GMAT. Since your goal is a 700+, you have to ask yourself what you're willing to do to achieve that score (since 90% of the Test Takers either CAN’T or WON’T do what it takes to score at that level).
It is possible to make significant strides in a short period of time, but you'll have to adjust your tactics. The GMAT tests you in ways that traditional schooling does not (and provides you with hints, shortcuts and options that a traditional test does not, so you have to train properly to take advantage of all those options).
The next question is ultimately about what's more important: taking the GMAT in 1 month or getting a 700+ score? You might not be able to do both. You have to remember your BIG PICTURE goals – the GMAT is one ‘step’ in the process of applying to your first choice Business School, but if your score is not competitive enough, then the plan falls apart. Missing an Application Round is not the end of the world – you can always apply for a later Round or apply next year.
Will A Private GMAT Tutor Save Me?
Rich,
I have couple of days left until my official exam - now scoring within 650-700 range. Do you recommend to hire a private tutor for a couple of hours to address some of the potential weaknesses?
Gamma
Dear Gamma,
A tutor may or may not make a difference in the last few days before an exam. My opinion is that it will make little difference because you probably already have a set way of doing things that will take more than a few days to alter.
Instead, do a light review of all the concepts that you know. Take a good look at both the questions you’ve answered correctly and those that you’ve answered incorrectly. If a question is too hard or too weird, then don't waste your time on it. Instead, make sure that you put your emphasis on correctly answering questions that are ‘gettable.’ Focus on removing as many silly mistakes as possible. Those mistakes are the things that are costing you your missing points.
GMAT assassins aren’t born, they’re made,
Rich
