Scored 540 ..Need help to formulate strategy for retake

Hi anantjit,

From what you described about your studies, there are a couple of immediate issues that you have to deal with. First, many Test Takers who use a "book heavy" study approach end up getting 'stuck' at a particular scoring level. Even the best books are limited in what they can teach you; they also can't force you to approach questions in a certain way and their explanations are often one-sided. Second, you were not studying in a consistent fashion, so there's a question of how well (and how efficiently) you were building your Test-Taking skills.

To hit your goal score, you'll likely have to commit to 2-3 months of consistent, guided study. You'll also likely need to invest in some new, non-book resources so that you can learn/practice new Tactics. Thankfully, the GMAT is a consistent, predictable Exam, so you CAN train to score at a higher level. Unfortunately, it's going to take more time than you originally planned for.

1) What is the next Round of application deadlines after this current one?

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