I'm so relieved to finally be writing this post as I close the door on my GMAT journey with a happy ending.
I took the GMAT for the 2nd time yesterday, Oct. 10, 2014. (First attempt was Sept. 5, 2014.)
I used the Kaplan on demand prep course. I went through every lesson, every page, every workshop and almost every quant question in the quiz bank. I actually completed the first 90 day course at the end of July and then re-enrolled to finish prepping for my Sept. 5 test day.
I did 13 CATs, mostly Kaplan:
May 4- KCAT 590 Q39 V35
Jun 1- KCAT 590 Q40 V38
July 6- KCAT 570 Q36 (didn't finish section) V38
July 13- KCAT 680 Q49 V39
July 19- KCAT 640 Q44 V39
Aug 10- KCAT 660 Q44 V41
Aug 14- KCAT 700 Q49 V41
Aug 17- GMAT CAT 1 680 Q44 V40
Aug 24- KCAT 690 Q48 V41
Aug 28- KCAT 660 Q44 V41
Sept 1- KCAT 730 Q50 V42
Sept 5- 1st Attempt: 680 Q43 V40
Oct 4- KCAT 680 Q46 V42
Oct 8- GMAT CAT 2 710 Q42 V45
Oct 10- 2nd Attempt: 720 Q48 V41
After my first test I started meeting with a tutor, because I didn't know how to improve further on self study alone. I think the value of this was only a little in what it helped me learn, and a good deal in the fact that I had someone to consult who was in my corner.
Going into the second test I was not as confident deep down as the first time, but pushed all out of my mind to find a pure, clear, calm zen.
My advice: it may be hellish, but if you don't get the score you need on the first try, attempt to push past the doubt, make some changes, and keep trying.