Trying to beat the GMAT.

Question

Hi guys. I took 3 GMAT online tests so far with scores of 580 and 590 from Kaplan, and 660 from VeritasGmat. Kaplan scores are 44Q and 26V and Veritas scores are 47Q and 34V. I heard a lot that Kaplan test is actually harder, but also heard that it is just rumors. So, wanted to ask you guys, experienced GMAT takers or professionals, which of these scores is better related to the actual GMAT? I found the verbal section a bit easier on Veritas than on Kaplan, what is the real GMAT's verbal section like? What other online tests would you suggest me to try to better assess my scores? Thanks a lot.

FYI: I will take GMAT in 3 months and my target score is 700+.

FYI: I will take GMAT in 3 months and my target score is 700+.

bb · Answer

It is all over the place. The closest and most reliable source is GMAT Prep... though I think you are worrying about the wrong thing. Why you wasting 3 tests and torturing yourself? Are you looking for 650 as the final score?

FYI. your scores will fluctuate and will be different even with the same provider and even on the real GMAT. It just differs.

FYI. your scores will fluctuate and will be different even with the same provider and even on the real GMAT. It just differs.

evansgherzi · Answer

Hi Surik,

As BB stated above, you should not keep putting yourself through practice exam after practice exam. They are great for determining your score within what is generally + or - 30 pts (sometimes a little more or less) what your GMAT score would be at the time, but you need to work on increasing your score. The tests definitely help a bit, but it would be more important for you to start taking prep course. Without a prep course, you will keep seeing similar simulation exam results. Choose a course, and put your time and effort into that, and you will start to see significant changes in your results. I can see some recommendations were already made. If you require any further, please feel free to ask. Good luck with your studies!

Sincerely,
Evan

GMATTaker101 · Answer

Thanks guys for your prompt replies. I also asked myself why would I take a test per day, but I think this is what I find more interesting. Also, I review each question after the test and write down the formulas to improve myself in certain areas. I need to learn a strategy for verbal section and I found the flashcards from 2011 on this forum. Are they still relevant? It has a lot of useful information. Also, can someone suggest me any free videos on youtube or elsewhere, which can help me to grasp the strategies for verbal section.

P.S. I learn better by watching videos rather than reading and memorizing from books. But I purchased a Kaplan book as well.

P.S. I learn better by watching videos rather than reading and memorizing from books. But I purchased a Kaplan book as well.

evansgherzi · Answer

Hi Surik,

In reference to reviewing each question after the test and writing down the formulas to improve in certain areas, that is how I study as well. I find it to be the best way to learn. Just don't keep retaking the same test multiple times because then you just memorize the answers to that test. So keep doing this and moving on after you have the theory memorized for each question.

In reference to your question about how to better study Verbal. I always recommend starting by going back to the basics. Without knowing the basics of grammar you will have problems with all verbal. Even if you know the majority of the basics, there are most likely a few basics you don't have down. Get yourself a book that covers grammar basics if you feel necessary (if you can find some helpful videos as you said you prefer those, go for it). After you feel that you have this down, then I would recommend taking a practice test or some practice verbal work to determine your specific areas of weakness. Focus on those sections and don't move on until they are mastered. I don't know any good videos that I can back up, but I do recommend a book called "English Grammar in Use" (intermediate and advanced levels). Please be aware that almost all grammar books tend to be exercise-oriented and often go into much more detail than what the GMAT tests. In addition, many grammar books do not deal with certain sentence structure issues (e.g. dangling modifiers). You need to cross-reference what is on the GMAT with the book you get. But "Grammar in Use" is probably the best grammar self-study book available. If you don't think this will be useful as you prefer videos, I understand. Personally,while I do enjoy the books, I do best learning face to face by speaking and asking lots of questions. Everyone is different. Knowing what works best for you is half the battle. If you have any other questions at any point please do not hesitate to contact me.

Good luck!
-Evan

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