Studying using only practice problems?

Question

Has anyone tried studying with only the practice problems?

Sites like Magoosh provide explanations after the problem so it is possible to learn how to solve each one and the fundamentals used in the process.
I feel my brain relates better to this style of learning and allows me to reference the information better. However, I was wondering what everyone's thoughts were on the matter?

Thanks in advance.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi sgcfivegm,

Many Test Takers use a variety of resources during their studies (practice questions, OGs, CATs, Courses, tutoring, etc.) so limiting yourself to JUST practice questions might not be the best plan. Your particular 'needs' will vary depending on yours skills, score goal and timeline though, so it might help to provide a bit more information about the work you've done so far and your goals:

1) How long have you been studying?
2) What materials have you use so far?
3) What is your goal score?
4) When are you planning to take the GMAT?
5) When are you planning to apply to Business School?

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

sgcfivegm · Answer

Thanks for replying to my question.

1) Studying for 3 months, but not intensely.
2) I have been using practice questions to gain an understanding of what to expect along with the official guide.
3) 700.
4) Not planning on taking the GMAT for a couple more months yet.
5) Yes.

Thanks again.

dabral · Answer

I am no longer active on this forum.

sgcfivegm · Answer

Ok I understand. So with firm foundations in place I can then use the practice problems to notice weaknesses? Thanks.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi sgcfivegm,

Since you've been studying for 3 months (albeit inconsistently), have you taken any FULL-LENGTH CATs yet (with the Essay and IR sections)? If you have, then how did you score (including the Quant and Verbal Scaled Scores)?

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

dabral · Answer

I am no longer active on this forum.

sgcfivegm · Answer

Ok thanks for the advice. It has been very helpful.

sgcfivegm · Answer

No I haven't yet. I feel my approach is maybe a little awry and needs to be tightened and fine tuned if I am going to have any success. I don't think I am not taking it seriously, but a stricter structure and efficient learning is required.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi sgcfivegm,

It's important to take FULL-LENGTH CATs at regular intervals during your studies. Beyond the fact that there are certain aspects to taking the GMAT that you can ONLY learn by taking those CATs, the score results will help to point out your strengths and weaknesses (and provide a basis for comparison so you can track your progress).

As such, it would be a good idea to take a FULL-LENGTH practice CAT sometime soon (perhaps this weekend); you can download 2 for free from www.mba.com (and they come with some additional practice materials). A FULL CAT takes about 4 hours to complete, so make sure that you've set aside enough time to take it in one sitting. Once you have those scores, you should report back here and we can talk through the scores and how to adjust your study plan (if necessary).

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

sgcfivegm · Answer

Ok, I'll make the full length practice cat my main next priority. Thanks for your insight.

	Target Test Prep - Save up to $599 $400 Discount + $99 Bonus GMAT Club Tests
	e-GMAT: 60% Off on GMAT Focus Get to 735+ from any starting point
	Magoosh increases your score, guaranteed - 15% off ALL Magoosh GMAT plans with code GMATCLUB15 + Free GMAT Club Tests.
	Manhattan Prep: $99 Bonus Score Higher on Your GMAT Exam. Guaranteed.
	Experts' Global - ~~$1720~~ $960 End-to-End GMAT Prep + App Support: 150+ Videos, 2000+ Questions, 15 FLTs +
	GMATWhiz - $299 ~~$499~~ Experience the course through a free trial.
	GMAT Club Tests - Free Included with every course purchase of $149+ View all deals

Studying using only practice problems?

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia