ffknack
Hello All,
I am just starting to get started on the GMAT prep. I've read through most of the stickies and posts and have been overwhelmed with information!
I'm trying to determine what books to buy, and I'm not sure which exactly I should purchase. I am looking to get 700+.
There seems to be mixed reviews between Kaplan and the 8-set of Manhattan (and apparently the PowerScore for a section called CR). I'm looking for a book to teach me the logistics (i.e. what the sections are, test format, time allotments, etc) as well as test taking strategies. Which is recommended, or should I get both... or get PowerScore CR as well?
Any help would be appreciated. I'm trying to figure out which book to start off with.
Thanks!
-FF
Here's an article on the
1 GMAT Strategy You Need To Know (if you want to score over 700)
A
recent student's success is proof that this theory is important.
TEST STRUCTURE
Part I: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) – [2 Essays, 60 minutes]
A. Analysis of an Argument (30 minutes)
B. Analysis of an Issue (30 minutes)
5 min break
Part II: Quantitative Section (37 questions, 75 minutes)
A. Problem Solving (23 or 24)
B. Data Sufficiency (13 or 14)
5 min break
Part III: Verbal Section (41 questions, 75 minutes)
A. Critical Reasoning (14 or 15)
B. Reading Comprehension(4 passages, 12-14)
C. Sentence Correction (14 or 15)
How does the Computer-Adaptive Format of the test work for the Verbal and Quant sections?
The Computer-Adaptive Test (CAT) is new to most people. It helps to understand how it works, but don’t get too bogged down on the details. The test is administered at testing centers throughout the world. Just visit
https://www.mba.com to register for the one nearest you at your earliest convenience.
The Verbal and Quant sections are multiple choice
Each section starts with a medium-level question
If you answer correctly, your next question is harder
If you answer incorrectlym, your next question is easier
The computer will keep adjusting to find an accurate assessment of your ability level in that subject area
Every test contains trial multiple-choice questions that are being pretested. Technically, they do not count in your scoring. However, it is impossible to identify them.
Many students panic when they see an “easy” question on the GMAT exam, indicating they probably just got the previous question wrong. You should not be focusing on these little details because they can detract from your psychological stamina during the exam. What you should be focused on is getting whatever question is thrown at you correct and moving on to the next one in a timely manner.
The # of questions you answer correctly out of 37 Q questions is translated onto a Quant raw score of 51, weighted on level of difficulty and other statistical characteristics of each question.
Likewise, the # of questions you answer correctly out of 41 V questions is translated onto a Verbal raw score of 51, weighted on level of difficulty and other statistical characteristics of each question.
Is the essay handwritten or typed?
The essays are typed. And yes, you can cut-and-paste.
How long is the GMAT score valid?
The score is valid for 5 years from the day you take the test. So even if you are not sure about business school in the next year or two, it might be a good idea to take it earlier when you are more familiar with the test-taking process. If you take the exam multiple times, business schools will see all of your scores for the last 5 years.
The new GMAT will come out in June 2012.
Take GMAT before or after?