Hi Ravr02,
Since it sounds like you're just beginning your studies, then it would be a good idea to take a FULL-LENGTH practice CAT Test; you can access 2 for free at
www.mba.com (and they come with some additional practice materials); there are 6 Official CATs available, as long as you are committed to taking that CAT in a realistic fashion, then you wouldn't be "wasting" one if you started off your studies by assessing yourself with one of the most realistic practice CATs available. That all having been said, the CATs from Kaplan and
MGMAT are all 'close enough' to the real thing that they will provide you with a relatively realistic score assessment (assuming that you correctly take the CAT in a realistic fashion). If you want to do a little studying first, so that you can familiarize yourself with the basic content and question types, then that's okay - but you shouldn't wait too long to take that initial CAT. That score will give us a good sense of your natural strengths and weaknesses and will help provide a basis for comparison as you continue to study. A FULL CAT takes about 3.5 hours to complete, so make sure that you've set aside enough time to take it in one sitting. Once you have that Score, you should report back here (or you can feel free to PM or email me directly) and we can come up with a study plan.
I'd like to know a bit more about your timeline and goals:
1) What is your goal score?
2) When are you planning to take the GMAT?
3) When are you planning to apply to Business School and what Schools are you planning to apply to?
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
Contact Rich at: [email protected]