Hello GMATClub members,
I wanted to share my GMAT experience and some insights that might help those of you preparing for the test, especially if you’re juggling it with a hectic job like I was.
My GMAT Scores:- First Attempt: 675
- Updated Score (after a few months): 685 (Q86, V83, DI 83)
My Background:I’m currently working in management consulting, a job that’s demanding in terms of both time and mental energy. I took the GMAT while working full-time, which added to the challenge. My preparation was mainly during the weekends and late evenings, with just 1.5 weeks off from work before the actual test.
Study Materials:- Official Guide (OG) Book: This was my go-to resource. I made sure to go through it thoroughly, understanding the logic behind each question type.
- GMATClub Tests (Pro Subscription): These tests were instrumental in getting used to the test format and managing time effectively. The level of difficulty and the variety of questions were very helpful in solidifying my concepts.
My Preparation:During my preparation, I noticed that Verbal was consistently my strength. In mocks, I was scoring well in Verbal, so I decided to focus more on Quant and DI, thinking that these were my weaker areas. My official mocks consistently placed me around 705, so I felt reasonably confident going into the test.
Test Day Experience:On the actual test day, things didn’t go as planned. I felt nervous, which likely affected my performance. During the test, I thought the DI section was going poorly, and I remember feeling disappointed as I went through it. However, when I got my score, I was surprised to see that I had done well in DI but underperformed in Verbal, which had been my strong suit throughout the preparation.
Lessons Learned:- Don't Neglect Your Strengths: Even if you're strong in a particular section, it's essential to keep practicing. I paid less attention to Verbal because I thought I had it covered, but on test day, it was Verbal that tripped me up.
- Mock Scores Are Just an Indicator: My mock scores were consistently higher than my actual score. It’s important to remember that mocks are just practice – they help you prepare, but they aren’t a guaranteed reflection of your actual performance.
- Mental Preparation is Key: Managing test-day nerves is crucial. Despite my confidence, nervousness played a role in my performance. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even just taking a moment to calm your nerves before starting can make a difference.
- Time Management: Working while preparing for the GMAT is tough, but it’s doable. My advice is to stick to a consistent study schedule and take time off work before the test if possible. Even if it’s just a week, it helps to have uninterrupted study time leading up to the test.
- Stay Positive: Even if your score isn’t what you hoped for, remember that it’s not the end of the world. I initially scored 675, but a few months later, my score was updated to 685. Keep pushing forward and look for ways to improve.
What’s Next for Me:I’m planning to take another shot at the GMAT, and I’m determined to push my score higher. If anyone has advice or tips for retaking the exam, I would greatly appreciate it!