Hello!
Many candidates underperform on the test day. Not considering the GMAT as yet another mock and not sticking to what worked in mocks are often the reason.
Experiment During MocksUse your mock tests as a laboratory. Try different section orders, pacing methods, guessing approaches, break usage, and warm-up routines. By the end of this stage, you should know what works best for you.
Fix Your Strategy Before Test DayOnce you have identified your best approach, lock it in. Do not experiment on the real test. The GMAT is not the place to test new timing, new pacing, or new strategies.
Avoid the “Real Test Respect” TrapMany students make the mistake of treating the GMAT differently because it feels official. They try something new, pace differently, or overthink. This usually harms performance. The GMAT is simply another test with official scoring.
Treat the GMAT Like Your Final MockBy test day, your mindset should be, “I have already taken this test many times.” Approach it exactly as you approached your mocks. Trust your preparation and stay consistent.
Key TakeawayExperiment during mocks when it is safe. On the real GMAT, commit to what worked for you. Consistency, not novelty, ensures peak performance.
Hope this helps.
Experts' Global