I studied (for approx. 1 month) exclusively using Kaplan (ie no Manhattan, Official Guide or PowerPrep) and was getting anywhere from 640 to 760 on their CATs. Two days before the actual exam, I looked over the GMATPrep downloadable prep materials and subsequently took their first practice CAT. Result: 720 (45Q 44V)
I felt as though I was sitting pretty for the exam since everyone (from people in these discussion fora to colleagues at work) seemed to say that the GMATPrep CAT scores are the most accurate predictors of actual GMAT performance.
On the actual exam (although I did panic and put on an awesome clinic in poor stress management) I ended up with an unspectacular 660. (Q = 80%ile V = 76%ile)
What do you think happened and how should I go about improving my score? I suppose taking a peek at the "Official Guide" would be a reasonable start. Any suggestions? I can't get back into GMAT prep until June, because I have to study for CFA Level III, but I need to know how to craft my summer strategy so that I can get a 700+ score in August or September.
Thanks in advance for your help.