This series of emails and PMs focuses on situations that many Test Takers face during their studies. The names of the original posters have been changed to protect their identities.
Same Score on All 3 GMATs
Hi Rich,
I've taken the GMAT for the third time, and I really don't know how I managed to do this - but in all 3 tests I got exactly the same score – 640.
I feel hopeless and frustrated and really don't know what to do next. I want to apply into one of the top 10 business schools, and I know that 640 won't do it… Any advice would be appreciated.
Romeo
Hi Romeo,
To start, a 640 is a solid score, so you shouldn't get too down on yourself. That score might be enough to get you into a Top-10 School, even though it would be at the lower end of the range for any of those Schools.
While earning the same overall score on all 3 of your Tests is not too common, your general situation (repeatedly earning similar Scores) is more common than you might realize. You’re clearly ‘seeing’ (and responding to) the Official GMAT in the same general ways and that includes the little mistakes that you’re making (and it’s costing you some points). To earn a significantly higher score, you’re going to have to learn some new tactics and put in the necessary time to master them – which will probably require that you invest in some new study materials.
Taking the 1st CAT Before Studying
Rich,
Would it be a good idea to try the first GMATPrep test before even studying?
Tango
Hi Tango,
Yes, we recommend that every student take that first CAT early on in their studies. There’s nothing wrong with doing a little studying beforehand though, to familiarize yourself with the general content and question types, but you shouldn’t wait too long to take that first CAT. The results of that Test will give you some important information on your personal strengths and weaknesses, and provide a basis for comparison (for when you take any future CATs).
Fatigue During the Final Days
Hello Rich,
I am down to my last 10 days before my GMAT and I am studying about 8 hours daily but my accuracy has gone down, especially in the last 2 days. I am also getting really tired.
Can you please suggest what should I do to get rid of the tiredness. I am sleeping normal 7-8 hours a day. How many questions or how much time should I dedicate to my studies in the last 10 days so that I don't get stressed on test day. I have been scoring really good in the past 5 tests (all from 700-740 range) and don't want to lose my edge in the last days.
Victor
Hi Victor,
Based on what you're describing, it sounds like you're running a risk of "burning out." I've never asked anyone to study for 8 hours a day; it sounds like you're doing THAT repeatedly. You're scoring at a high level right now, so ease back a bit on your studies and try to relax a bit. We recommend that all Test Takers take 1 day off per week. No CATs, no studying, no review. Go do whatever you do for fun.
For fatigue, take a look at your diet (especially what you snack on) and try to get in a bit of light exercise. Even if it's just a long walk, you'll likely find that activity to be beneficial. While it might be tempting to ‘cram’, you should avoid that during the last week. You can continue to study and review, but the work should be light.
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
