I am pretty desperate. I know I have to change my prep strategy. My first three attempts were not the most sensible. I went into the first test confident that I knew everything about math. Well, what a surprise when I got my score. So I took a review course. I went in the second test thinking "well with what I picked up, I should improve at least 50 points. That is what they practically guarantee." Well, again, the surprise came in that I wasted so much time applying strategies to every question. So the third time was out of pure desperation because I wanted to get my apps in. Well, after the third time, I decided not to apply to school and wait a year. This time I studied about six weeks, but I was just trying to get exposed to every question. So when the test came and they asked questions in ways I never saw before, I freaked out. I remember getting to problem 1 and expecting algebra with fractions. That didn't happen. Then there was data sufficiency right away. The problems started really hard, then all of sudden, really easy. I knew that wasn't a good sign. Unfortunately with verbal, there really is no way of knowing how you're doing. More than one answer can seem correct with RC and CR. SC is really a strong point for me.
I did order the two books you suggested and I am starting a new plan. I am keeping an
error log and going to try to finish all of the OG PS and RC questions in the next ten days. And then jump into the new material.
I am planning to try again in early Sept so hopefully the next six weeks will be enough prep.
I am always open to any other suggestions you may have.
Thanks!!