hfbamafan wrote:
I have studied for the GMAT before and going to change my study habits but had a question.
My B-School applications are due this October which is 6 months from now. Subtracting 2/3 months for applications.
Is about 4.5 months to much time to study for the GMAT?
I already have a solid base for verbal, my quant needs some serious fine tuning.
Aiming for a 690-710 as I think this will be in my wheelhouse for the schools I am applying to, Rice (Jones) as the school I really want to attend. Will I burn myself out or should I be ok.
The last time I took the GMAT I received 28Q 38V. And I know that I could increase my Quant score to the 45-49 range if I prepared better. The only problem I had on verbal was reading comprehension, as my SC and CR are pretty good.
Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated.
Hi hfbamafan, I like the fact that you're already looking forward to preparing yourself for the GMAT. The question of whether 4.5 months is too long, too short or just right for you (the classic Goldylocks dilemna) is one that only you can answer.
Instead of quoting you statistics and past experiences, let me turn the question around. If you started studying today and felt that you were ready in 2 months, would anything stop you from taking the exam in June and getting it over with? In other words, if your score needs to be settled by October, why would you wait until September 30th to take the exam? Just start prepping whenever you can and take the exam when you're ready. This solves all your timing concerns, gives you time to adjust if it ends up longer than you expect, and guarantees you won't "burn yourself out" or get bored or anything.
If there's a given timeframe you need to adhere to, then by all means stick to it. Otherwise, start whenever you're motivated and take the exam whenever you're ready.
Best of luck!
-Ron