2 weeks left before test, best last minute strategies?

Hi miclectric1,

Let me share my thoughts here. Official guide is a good collection of Questions, so definitely it is a very good book for practising questions, but it shouldn't be your starting point for preparation. Let me explain why

When it comes to scoring well on GMAT, a student has to go through 3 skill levels

Skill Level 1 (the easiest one) - Having a strong grasp over concepts

This is the most fundamental aspect and hence needs to be done first. The OG won't do a good job at this because it just touches upon the concepts tested on GMAT and hence isn't enough. Remember that this skill level will only take you to a 550-600 kind of a level on GMAT. For a higher score, you need to move to Skill Level 2. Let's see what it is.

Skill Level 2 (the most ignored one) - Learning a methodical approach

Most students jump from concepts to directly solving questions without realizing that GMAT requires them to be methodical and logical. Hence, it is important that you learn the right method to solve various questions. For example, in order to solve 2 linear simultaneous equations, you need to start by equating a set of co-efficient and then eliminating that variable and so on. Now, video lessons alone won't help you to develop a methodical approach. You need to have a structured resource that follows a consistent approach and focuses a lot on teaching it. Sadly, such resources are scarce. If you develop a methodical approach, your score will be in the vicinity of the 650-720 mark.

Skill Level 3 (commonly focused one) - Working on Gaps/weaknesses

Another thing that most students follow but they do so before even working on Skill Level 2. Ideally you need to maintain an error log to ensure you keep track of your weak areas and work on them as and when needed.

Skill 3 is mostly where the OG fits perfectly. I hope this helps and gives you some perspective about effective preparation.

The importance of using a standard resource:

The only method to make sure that you invest your time, money and effort in an effective way is to use a standard resource which teaches you the concepts, strategies and also helps you work on your weaker areas. Studying using OG or a few random resources might help you to solve GMAT like questions but I’m afraid that they won’t be able to help you much from a strategy perspective.

I would suggest you to go for some standard course for your preparationwhich can help you prepare in a structured and efficient manner thereby increasing your productivity. It’s always better to spare some more time on your preparation until you are ready instead of missing out on your dream colleges/ b-schools in hurry.

Feel free to connect if you have any questions your preparation. I will be happy to help!