MGMAT Quant

Question

Does anyone else think that MGMAT Quant sections are much more difficult than GMATClub or GMAT Prep tests? The concepts tested are obviously the same, but the MGMAT tests just seem to involve longer, more complicated calculations, less friendly numbers, and more "gotcha" traps. I am getting to the point where I can hit 47-48 consistently on GMATClub, but my MGMAT scores are stuck around 42-45. It is frustrating because I think I am making improvements, but the MGMAT tests kill my confidence.

I've found a few topics on this from years ago, but I wanted to ask again in case the opinions expressed in prior threads have changed.

I've found a few topics on this from years ago, but I wanted to ask again in case the opinions expressed in prior threads have changed.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi mr7183,

The scoring algorithm on the Official GMAT is far more complicated than most people realize. Since that algorithm is proprietary, no GMAT company has an exact match for it, thus CAT scores can vary a bit based on the 'biases' involved in their respective designs. The most realistic CATs on the market are the 6 available from GMAC (the two free CATs and the other four that can be purchased with Exam Pack 1 and Exam Pack 2). How have you scored on THOSE CATs? Assuming you take those CATs under realistic conditions, then those score results are the most accurate that you can expect to find during your practice.

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

mr7183 · Answer

Hi Rich -- I just finished EP1 Test 1:

I got a 720 -- Q:48, V:40, IR: 8.

I'm standing by my observations on MGMAT. I think the Quant CATs (not just their scoring algorithm) are too difficult to the point where it has a negative impact on both confidence and timing strategies.

My test is June 4th, so I'm going to use the next few months to keep pounding away at OG problems. I'm least comfortable with Reading Comprehension at this point.

ccooley · Answer

I've heard the same from a number of MPrep students. Here's my take on it.

- MPrep Quant probably is somewhat harder for most students than the official Quant. I certainly hear 'the Quant on the real thing was easier' more often than any other comment about the test.

- That probably  isn't  due to our scoring algorithm. Larry Rudner, the former Chief Psychometrician (what an amazing job title!) at the GMAC, recently made the following statement about the MPrep CAT algorithm:

So, even though we don't know a whole lot about the GMAC algorithm (they play their cards close to the chest, after all), we've created a simulation of it that's accurate enough that Dr. Rudner thinks it's 'excellent'.

- Instead, I suspect that it's due to a difference in the topic balance on Quant. Our CATs may slightly overrepresent certain content areas that weaker Quant students tend to find unusually difficult, not because the math is any harder, but because they require more out-of-the-box thinking and creativity. I have my own theories on what those areas might be, but I don't know enough about the official test to feel comfortable speculating here.

- The difference is fairly small, based on reports from my own students. And, it's in the 'right direction' - if you can handle a slightly tougher CAT, then you can handle the real thing. If the MPrep CATs make you extra diligent about your Quant timing, then that's a good thing!

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