Calling for 800s, Experts, Gurus, Crackers, Warriors ....

future - 800 is a near impossibility for most people. Even if I were that smart, on the day, even the slightest of things could go wrong and result in one or two incorrect answers, which is all it would take to get a score below 800. I don't think anyone on gmatclub has actually managed to score 800 yet. However, you will see a lot of people with 750+ scores. This to me is a more realistic goal.

There's are few people who retake tests despite scoring low 700s.

You can search for their stories :
ncprasad - from 740 -760
pelihu - from 730 - 780
swbluedevil - from 720 - 750

Things I'd do (or rather am doing)

Fundamentals review. I still am shaky on some basics - combinations, probabilities, even number theory and tough word translations. Also fundamentals of sentence correction. This is the most "improvable" part of verbal.

Volume practice - loads and loads of it. 1000 SC on gmatter + 1000 CR + 5 MGMAT tests + 25 Gmatprep challenges.

Also practice with LSAT stuff to improve CR and RC.

1. MGMAT books + OG & lots of GMATPrep Tests (reloaded)

2. Concentrate on Number Properties and learn quick ways to solve for them!!!

Thanks for the advice guys, good stuff.

I'm 70 short of 800 but here's my advice:

1. Spend a good two weeks (more if you like) to learn the ins and outs of the test, read successful debriefs (for motivation), and inventory all available prep material. This step is so important. I can guarantee that nearly 99.5% of test takers do not do this.

2. With the above research, create a reasonable study plan that allows you to learn the basics, focus on your weaknesses, and finally refine the minutiae of the test.

3. Keep your prep time reasonable -- not too short, not too long. You will burnout if it's too long and cram if it's too short.

4. Make mistakes. Make your mistakes here on gmatclub, not on the gmat. Learn from not only your own but other people's mistakes. You will probably do more learning reviewing mistakes than during any other portion of your prep.

Good luck.