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This time of year sees a large number of GMAT test takers, so we thought it would be timely to share a set of test day strategies that can make a meaningful difference.
1. Get Proper Sleep the Night Before Sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours the night before the test. A well-rested mind helps you stay fresh, focused, and capable of giving your best performance.
2. Eat a Balanced and Light Meal Choose food that keeps your energy steady without making you feel heavy or uncomfortable during the test.
3. Arrive Early at the Test Center Plan to reach the center at least 30 minutes in advance. A timely arrival helps you stay relaxed and mentally prepared.
4. Bring the Required Documents Carry a valid ID and appointment confirmation exactly as specified by GMAC. Double-check your materials the night before.
5. Dress Comfortably in Layers Test centers can vary in temperature. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt easily and stay comfortable throughout the test.
6. Stick to What Worked During Mocks Avoid trying anything new on test day. Use the approaches, pacing, and section order that consistently worked for you during full-length mock tests.
7. Use the One Scheduled Break Effectively You are allowed one optional 10-minute break. Use it to stretch, hydrate, and reset your focus before the next section.
8. Use the One-Minute Pause Before Each Section to Breathe and Refocus At the start of each section, take a deep breath, reset your posture, and prepare your mind for what lies ahead.
9. A Tough Test Is a Good Sign; Stay Calm If the questions seem difficult, it may indicate that you are performing well. Stay composed and continue executing your strategy.
10. Focus on the Current Question | Read Every Question Attentively Misreading questions leads to unnecessary errors. Read carefully to ensure that you understand exactly what is being asked.
11. Do Not Get Stuck on Any One Question If a question is taking too long, make an informed guess and move forward. You may revisit it later using the Question Review and Edit feature, if time permits.
12. Avoid Mid-Test Self-Evaluation Do not assess your performance while the test is underway. Remain fully focused on the current task.
13. Trust Your Preparation You have prepared for this. Maintain confidence in your strategies and the effort you have invested.
14. Monitor Time Intelligently Be mindful of time, but do not allow the timer to distract you. Stay steady and maintain control of your pacing.
15. It Is Okay to Guess, Flag, and Move On If you are unsure about a question, make your best attempt, flag it, and continue. You can revisit up to three answered questions per section if time allows.
16. Always Ensure You Complete the Section Never leave any questions unanswered. Unattempted questions carry a heavier penalty than incorrect ones. If time is short, make your best guesses and complete the section.
17. Use Elimination and Estimation When unsure, eliminate clearly incorrect choices and make an informed estimate. Even partial narrowing improves your odds.
18. Stay Focused Until the Last Question Do not let your attention drop in the final minutes. Every question counts equally, from start to finish.
19. Ignore External Distractions What others are doing is irrelevant. Keep your attention fully on your screen and your pacing.
20. Finish with Composure and Confidence Once the test ends, do not overthink it. Stay composed and walk away knowing that you gave it your best.
There is no single tip that guarantees success, but together, these practices help create the right conditions for a focused, efficient, and successful test experience. The GMAT tests not only your academic skill, but also your ability to manage pressure with discipline and clarity.
Wishing all aspirants, the very best.
Experts' Global