How to approach GMAT Preparation

Question

Hi guys, I am quite new to GMAT prep (and this forum). I was earlier studying for CAT (the Indian MBA entrance exam), and now I have shifted focus to GMAT. While I understand that the basics of the two exams is same/similar, I have unable to understand ho to approach the GMAT - the question types, difficulty level and also the weightage of topics in quant and DI. 
Can someone/anyone please help me understand the same, so that I have a clear mind that I am moving towards a better score. Currently, I am studying but I need an approach mindset to know that I am bettering my knowledge base and score.

Please feel free to connect, looking forward to the help I receive. Thanking you in advance.

nishantswaft · Answer

To understand the exam the best option would be to attempt a mock, since you're already familiar with the basics it'll help you understand the pattern and structure of the exam. Then you should analyse your mocks to discover general weak areas and fix them before attempting another mock.

Or you can also try following any of the study plans available according to your schedule, and follow them generously.

Or you can also try following any of the study plans available according to your schedule, and follow them generously.

kingbucky · Answer

Since you're transitioning from CAT to GMAT, the biggest shift is in approach. GMAT is  more logic-driven , testing reasoning over speed. Quant is generally easier than CAT but requires precision, and Data Insights (DI) is a unique mix of data interpretation and logical reasoning. Verbal differs significantly, emphasizing logic (Critical Reasoning), and comprehension (Reading Comprehension). Start with GMAT Official Guide to get familiar with question types, then explore structured courses like TTP or e-GMAT for a targeted approach. Mock tests will help assess progress. Stay consistent and strategic in your prep!

ShilpiSeth · Answer

Hi, thank you for your suggestions. 
The study plans that you mentioned, are there any readily available to follow?

nishantswaft · Answer

Yes!
Try this one it is among the most popular ones.

GMAT Ninja's 13 week plan

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Although I cannot give you an exact day-to-day study plan, I have some general advice for you on how to move forward with your prep.

Regarding improving your GRE skills, my biggest piece of advice is to ensure you are studying topically. In other words, be sure to focus on just ONE quant or verbal topic at a time and practice just that topic until you achieve mastery. If you can study that way, you will start seeing incremental improvement.

For example, let's say you are studying Number Properties. First, you'll need to learn all you can about that topic, and then practice only Number Property questions. After each problem set, thoroughly analyze your incorrect questions. For example, ask yourself why if you got a remainder question wrong. Did you make a careless mistake? Did you not properly apply the remainder formula? Was there a concept you did not understand in the question?

By carefully analyzing your mistakes, you will be able to fix your weaknesses efficiently and, in turn, improve your GMAT quant skills. Number Properties is just one example; follow this process for all quant and verbal topics.

For some more tips on the best way to structure your studying, here is a great article:

The Best Way to Study for the GMAT

Good luck!

EducationAisle · Answer

This video  will quickly bring you up to speed with GMAT Shilpi.

Good luck!

RetaketheGMAT · Answer

Good advice above and I'll add a different angle:

Make sure you balance your prep with conceptual knowledge study and topic based practice with an equal emphasis on test-taking skills. The real accelerator for GMAT prep is recognising that the test strong rewards great reasoning processes. There are often multiple paths to the answer with the hard core conceptual approach taking longer than a more balance approach that focuses on test taking strategies (like answer elimination for example among dozens of others).

From a study perspective it means regularly taking a step back to notice and correct errors you are making in how you're attempting questions. When reviewing solutions, don't just focus on the ones you got wrong -- also look at the ones you took too long on. Notice the processes you could follow to streamline and increase accuracy without spending more time per question.

Regular diagnostics are also critical to keeping your prep efficient and focused. Blindly doing practice question and practice tests is a good way to burn resources and still not make meaningful progress towards your target score. Always focus on understanding your gaps and targeting your practice to attacking those gaps.

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