GMAT Practice Exam Score Regression: Need Advice

Question

Hi everyone!

I am sure most of you have come across numerous posts like this, but I currently need some advice from people who have experienced what I am currently experiencing.

I have been studying for the GMAT since March of this year, although the last two months I have been planning my wedding for this upcoming March, so I have been a little all over the place. I am using Target Test Prep and really like it. I am almost 70% through the course and still need to finish verbal (I have finished all quant).

The first GMAT practice exam I took was when I was just starting to study to get a sense of where I was at. I got a 430 (QR 17 | VR 31). 
The second practice exam I took was a couple of months ago and I got a 540 (QR 30 | VR 34). 
The third practice exam I took was a few weeks ago and I got a 500 (QR 31| VR 28). 
I re-set the first practice exam and took it again this past weekend and scored 480 (QR 29 | VR 27). 
I am shooting for at least a mid-600 score to get into the program I want and if it helps, English is not my first language.

Am I hitting a plateau? Is this normal? Am I not studying as effectively as I thought? I am feeling a little discouraged as I have been studying consistently for the last 6-7 months (minus travel) and feel like I am not getting anywhere. I go through all the questions I get wrong and try to understand the solution. I dedicate at least two hours each day on top of working full time and try to study a little more than that on weekends.

Any advice on how I can learn better so I can start seeing an improvement? I truly want to learn more effectively; I don't want to just memorize materials and shoot for a higher score. I was hoping to apply for the early round which is Dec 4th, but feel like this deadline is not attainable right now.

If you have experienced what I am experiencing, I would love to hear from you. I really appreciate your time. Thank you so much in advance.

pintukr · Answer

Use the strategy of practicing topic-wise for different sections of the exam. Solve using the Forum Quiz.

All the Best.

GmatKnightTutor · Answer

Person below went from a V31 to a V40 on a retake. Although they took a bit of tutoring (6 hrs), they mention a variety of tips/free resources you could check out. https://gmatclub.com/forum/gmat-online- ... 68599.html -contact: gmatknight site | gmatclub dm

bb · Answer

I think I may have a guess…. If You started studying six months ago…. That may be part of the reason. I’m not sure if your memory is different but many people only retain things for so long. I think with your observing is you forgetting things that you’ve learned in March and April.

I’m not saying you’re going to forget how to do add, but you probably will forget some of the traps and some of the methods you’ve learned, basically things you don’t use a whole lot is what we get forgotten… the ideal prep timeframe is about 3 to 4 months in my opinion based on how my mind works at least. I can keep things together for that long and I can focus and I can exert effort but once you change your focus and especially something as exciting and something as demanding as wedding planning, I can definitely see your mind very naturally pushing out quadratic system with cake flavors, which frankly are much more exciting things. Congratulations on this very exciting event and the big change in your life!

My suggestion for you would be to find a stretch of time about six weeks to eight weeks when you can refocus. Finish the course in one stretch and do some additional review of what you’ve done early on and that should get you to what you’re looking for.

PS. at the same time, seeing your highest quantitative score was not quite all the way up there, I think you could benefit from going through the quant section again, selectively, focusing on some of the things you hate and some of the things you are not good at. We all have those areas… the first step is to accept you have them and accept that you need help and focus on fixing them. Saying things such as I’m not good at math is not really helpful. Nobody is born good at math everyone can learn so don’t disqualify yourself right away, give yourself a chance and change your mindset. You even proved a lot already in quant. What’s stopping you now? 👍

This would be my recommendation.

Posted from my mobile device

ownerrespected · Answer

I appreciate this 🤗 
  moto x3m

Score-Quest · Answer

Hello,

I find your post quite interesting, and I'd like to contribute my thoughts. Before diving into GMAT specifically, let's break down the fundamentals of exam preparation in general. There are three key components to successful exam prep:

1. Understanding the Fundamentals
2. Practice
3. Mocks
 These three steps apply to nearly any exam worldwide, but interestingly, we often observe significant variations in scores among individuals who follow these steps. Why is that?

Understanding the Fundamentals:  This is the foundation of your preparation. When you're tackling quant concepts or verbal questions like assumption queries in Critical Reasoning, are you genuinely comprehending the basics, or are you merely striving to grasp enough to solve specific questions? Many people tend to do the latter. A litmus test for whether you truly understand the fundamentals is your ability to tackle new question types that assess the same core concepts. If you struggle with these new questions, there might be a gap in your understanding. It's crucial to solidify your grasp of the basics. For those who cannot enroll in a test prep program or opt for private tutoring, there are excellent GMAT prep books available, such as Powerscore Bible or Manhattan Guides, which are packed with fundamental knowledge. If reading isn't your preferred method, consider seeking help from a private tutor to master the basics.

Practice:  This is where significant improvement happens. However, it's important to remember two key principles. First, practicing questions of the same difficulty level won't lead to substantial progress. You need to treat it like training a muscle – steadily increase the difficulty level as you become more comfortable. Second, always maintain an error tracker. You can utilize the Error Log on GMAT Club or customize it with additional columns, including the concept tested, reasons for getting a question wrong, and whether you've reviewed those concepts.

Mocks:  This is the final stage of your preparation and arguably the most crucial. But how should you approach taking mock exams? Simulate the actual GMAT experience by sitting for the entire duration with unwavering focus. However, taking a mock is just half the job. Afterward, meticulously analyze every mistake, document every concept you missed, and revise these concepts before taking another mock.

Now, let's delve into some softer aspects of GMAT preparation:

Consistency and Planning:  GMAT demands consistency. I've worked with many students who were consistent for a month but then abandoned their prep, forcing them to start over, sometimes leading to years of delay. Consistency is challenging to maintain, so it must stem from intrinsic motivation.

Productivity:  Effective study sessions are key. Minimize distractions while studying. Remember, the number of hours you put in does not necessarily equate to productive hours.

Find a Study Buddy:  Having a shared goal with others can help keep you on track and motivated.

Relax:  Remember that GMAT is conquerable. Maintain a positive mindset during your prep and try to enjoy the process rather than seeing it as a burden.

To wrap it up, I want to emphasize that success in this journey is within your reach. The GMAT is a conquerable exam, and with the right strategies, achieving your target scores is well within your grasp. I trust that these insights will be valuable as you prepare. You've got this!

bshahollari · Answer

Thanks for all the advice everyone!

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi bshahollari,

I'm sorry to hear how your prep has been going. Regarding how to move forward with your studying, here is an article you may find helpful:

The Best Way to Study for the GMAT

EmmaAlva · Answer

I recommend finding a period of about six to eight weeks where you can dedicate your focus to completing the course in one go. Additionally, take some time for extra review of the earlier material, and this should help you achieve your goal.

jenniferlopez1868 · Answer

Many business schools employ the GMAT, a standardized test, as part of their admissions procedure.

bb · Answer

Wow. I’ve been waiting for years to see Jennifer Lopez join gmatclub. My dreams have finally come true!

It is a pity she’s supposed to spam however 😞

Posted from my mobile device

rosie101 · Answer

This post highlights the introduction of a new game mode called Primaries in The Political Machine 2024. It emphasizes the significance of United States primaries in selecting candidates for the general election and shaping the overall electoral landscape. By offering players the opportunity to engage in alternative primary scenarios, the game aims to provide a unique and engaging experience beyond the traditional presidential focus.

esperanzany · Answer

Let's try! good luck to you

bettyking23 · Answer

Most work well on both mobile and desktop devices because the functions are simple. Check out all of the IO games on this page, and be sure to come back often to see the newest and best browser-based IO games.

MaryCari · Answer

So simple yet powerful! There’s beauty in simplicity, and this proves it! The ideas are straightforward but carry so much weight  swindon escort

undesaepe · Answer

The current piece has been quite helpful. I appreciate how nice it is of you to make it available to me and everyone else.

	Manhattan Prep: $99 Bonus Score Higher on Your GMAT Exam. Guaranteed.
	Target Test Prep - Save up to $599 $400 Discount + $99 Bonus GMAT Club Tests
	e-GMAT: 60% Off on GMAT Focus Get to 735+ from any starting point
	Magoosh increases your score, guaranteed - 15% off ALL Magoosh GMAT plans with code GMATCLUB15 + Free GMAT Club Tests.
	Experts' Global - ~~$1720~~ $960 End-to-End GMAT Prep + App Support: 150+ Videos, 2000+ Questions, 15 FLTs +
	GMATWhiz - $299 ~~$499~~ Experience the course through a free trial.
	GMAT Club Tests - Free Included with every course purchase of $149+ View all deals

GMAT Practice Exam Score Regression: Need Advice

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards