Hi MissionMBA2024,
I see you are just starting out and have a bunch of questions, so here is some general advice on how to get going with your GMAT prep.
To begin, I suggest you spend a day or two familiarizing yourself with the GMAT’s general structure and content, especially Data Sufficiency questions, which are unique to the GMAT. Then take
an official practice test to get your baseline score. Doing so will help you gauge the amount of work required to reach your target score.
In fact, this article will give you an idea about how many hours you’ll need to prepare:
How Many Hours Should I Study for the GMAT Focus?Once you have a baseline score, adopt a prep strategy consisting of topical learning and practice. In other words, focus on just one topic at a time and practice that topic until you achieve mastery.
For instance, let's consider your study of Number Properties. First, immerse yourself in all aspects of this topic, and then, focus solely on Number Property questions. After each problem set, take the time to delve into your incorrect answers. This self-reflection is a powerful tool that allows you to understand your learning process and make significant improvements. For instance, if you made a mistake in a remainder question, ask yourself why. Was it a careless error? Did you not apply the remainder formula correctly? Was there a concept in the question that you didn't grasp?
By meticulously analyzing your mistakes, you will efficiently address your weaknesses and, consequently, enhance your GMAT quant skills. This process has been unequivocally proven to be effective. Number Properties is just one example; follow this process for all Quant, Verbal, and DI topics. This article outlines the different phases of this part of your prep:
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The Phases of Preparing for the GMATOnce you have mastered all of the content, you can begin taking official practice tests. With each test, carefully review your results to identify remaining gaps in your content knowledge and work on strengthening those areas until you fully understand them. Then (and only then) take another practice test. Repeat this process until you reach (or exceed!) your goal score.
Here’s an article on how to structure your prep:
GMAT Preparation Strategy