GMAT- Strategies for Retaking the Test- Please support

Question

Hi Everyone,

I was studying for the GMAT from Oct 2015-December 2015. Wrote the exam in early December- score was 540 (both quant and verbal were equal scores). It was disappointing since I was averaging 650 in the mock tests. Maybe the preparation wasn't relevant and enough for the GMAT exam.

I would now like to give myself 3 months to write the test again. Request inputs on how to structure the preparation towards ensuring an improvement in the score.

Thanks,

Starpeople

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi starpeople,

Your Official GMAT Score ended up matching your last practice CAT (which you described here:)

from-650-to-540-help-208640.html#p1603047

1) What were your Quant and Verbal Scaled Scores on your Official GMAT and on that last CAT?

Before I can offer you the specific advice that you're looking for, I'd also like to know more about your studies so far and your goals:

1) What materials have you used?
2) What is your goal score?
3) When are you planning to retake the GMAT?

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

Nupsnew · Answer

Thanks Rich,

My official break up was 37 in quant and 37 in verbal. The last CAT I took before the actual GMAT, was 710 (it could also have been because of familiarity with questions). Now to your questions:

1) I used MGMAT guides, official guide and the verbal and quant supplements 
2) My goal score is 700 
3) I would like to retake the GMAT in June.

Look forward to your thoughts.

Thanks much.

deabas · Answer

Hello Starpeople, I would recommend to use either Kaplan or Princeton GMAT resources to build up your skills and then move on higher level resources from MGMAT. Below are the list of resources I recommend: 1) MGMAT CR is an excellent resource for CR. 2) PRinceton GMAT Quan. + MGMAT Math textbooks (Start with Princeton and then move on to MGMAT). 3) e-GMAT for SC 4) RC: read daily news from Economist, NY Times, National Geographic as well as online practice from GMAT Club. Read, Read, and Read. This is a good link to refer to: 470-to-740-reward-of-persistence-and-hardwork-191587.html?gclid=CK_HpajNz8gCFYIIwwodyQgAgQ#p1468404 And the best exam strategy and analysis could be found here: gmat-prep-software-analysis-and-what-if-scenarios-146146.html

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi starpeople,

Prior to this Official GMAT, when was the last time that you took a NEW CAT (that did NOT include questions that you had already seen before)? What was your score on that CAT?

Another 3 months of consistent study time should allow you to define (and fix) any issues that occurred in your prior studies. Since you've not faced the Official GMAT, you should be able to better 'model' your studies after what you'll face on Test Day.

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

OptimusPrepJanielle · Answer

Hi Starpeople,

Usually people see a big difference in the mock scores and the GMAT score if:

1. They have not prepared for the GMAT fully. i.e. they have left some fundamentals/concepts that are tested on the test
2. They have not taken enough mock CATs or not taken them realistically.

What were your scaled scores?

You should start a fresh and try to understand the concepts first before jumping onto problem solving
In your preparation so far, how did you study? What material did you follow?

1. Did you take the test including AWA and IR?
2. Did you complete both the sections? (There is a high penalty if you do not complete a section)

Also, I would recommend you to refrain from taking tests until you have gone through all the fundamentals. 
You need to build the concepts/fundamentals before you jump in solving the problems. You can do so by choosing one of the following ways:

1. In person classes/private tutoring
2. Online classes
3. Self paced online preparatory course
4. Book heavy approach

Whatever you choose, make sure that you choose one. Because GMAT tests you on some concepts and fundamentals that you can learn from a course. Most of the preparatory companies including ours offer a free trial of our course. You can take the trial and see if the course suits your needs.
In addition to the preparatory material, buy the Official Guides(both the Official Guide and the Verbal Review), Question Pack 1 and the 4 official mock CATs. They should be an indispensable part of your preparation.

You need close to 3 months to prepare well for the GMAT.

1. Understand the concepts and fundamentals before jumping into problem solving
2. Solve full length CATs including AWA and IR. You can get two free GMAT Prep mock CATs and can purchase two more from mba.com
3. Make sure you solve the official questions from the Official Guide

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