Help with Study Plan

Question

Hi,

I am looking for expert suggestions on the study plan I should follow.

My Background: 
My work-life is unpredictable, which has resulted in an inconsistent study pattern for me. Also, I am below average in terms of reading speed. I am able to solve most of the questions while I study, but I fail to show similar performance in timed tests.
So far, I have been able to study intermittently for 3 weeks. I started GMAT preparation with one week of Quants (my old Career Launcher CAT Books), after which I took GMAC Practice Test - I. My performance: Overall-650, V-26, Q-50. I was able to properly attempt only 24 questions in Verbal, after which I randomly marked the answers.
This followed by one month of break and then two weeks of Verbal study (Kaplan GMAT Premier). Yesterday, I took GMAC Practice Test - II. My performance: Overall - 700, V-35, Q-49. I was able to attempt 29 questions in Verbal, but got slow in Quants.

Tentative Study Plan: 
For the next two months, I plan to do the following:
1a. Read novels
1b. Practice OG (dividing the content for two months)
1c. Try to cover Manhattan SC, Powerscore Bible CR and quant topics online 
2. Take one Full-Time Test (from 6 Manhattan Prep & some free tests) every week
3. Revise and take GMAC Practice Tests

Help I am Seeking: 
1. How would I know I am ready to take GMAT? At what point should I register for it?
2. Given my scenario, can you suggest a better study plan?
3. Also, given my scenario, can you suggest better-suited books?

Thanks

Gmatsaiyan · Answer

Follow the following study plan:-
https://gmatclub.com/forum/gmat-study-p ... ml?fl=menu
https://gmatclub.com/forum/gmat-self-pr ... tml?f=menu

Courses that can help with your prep:-
https://gmatclub.com/forum/best-gmat-co ... ml?fl=menu

Best books for Quants:-
https://gmatclub.com/forum/best-gmat-ma ... ml?fl=menu
Best books for Verbal:-
https://gmatclub.com/forum/best-gmat-ve ... ml?fl=menu

Best Gmat practice tests:-
https://gmatclub.com/forum/all-gmat-pra ... ml?fl=menu

DisciplinedPrep · Answer

Shadwal - Welcome to GMAT Club!

You already have a strong baseline score of 650. With a solid preparation, you could target a much higher GMAT score. There're several success stories of test-takers making massive score improvement. Please review some of the GMAT Success stories available in the below link. At this point, I would recommend that you review GMAT Club's study plan.

GMAT Study Plan: https://gmatclub.com/forum/gmat-study-plan-217827.html
Best GMAT Stories: https://gmatclub.com/forum/best-gmat-st ... 98512.html

kiran120680 · Answer

Welcome to GMAT CLUB!! What is your expected score?

Shadwal · Answer

Hi Kiran,

I am aiming for a 750+ score. I am confident of scoring Q-50, which means I must score V-43 or higher.

CareerGeek · Answer

1. How would I know I am ready to take GMAT? At what point should I register for it?

When you score consistently your target score in mocks is when you book the exam.

2. Given my scenario, can you suggest a better study plan?

Study at a particular time everyday, do timed practise every alternate day (mostly for verbal). 
In place of books, try to read an article per day from NYTimes or from The economist. Rest is fine.

3. Also, given my scenario, can you suggest better-suited books?

Books are fine too. GMATCLUB tests are great source for quants, you can register for them.

All the best

Posted from my mobile device

danielniro · Answer

I really appreciate your post.

AbishekB · Answer

Dear all,

Im in process to begin my GMAT prep. Although have a decent idea regarding the materials, format etc. as shared by fellow mates. However, request you could assist first hand info with regards to: where and with what to begin with, best and most comprehensive study materials for each section, mock tests, question banks etc.

Target - 750+

A quick background - work in the field of Private Equity so day job is pretty strenuous and lengthy so to say. Historically worked on the investment banking side. So kind of used to the long hours. However, will try to manage the studying bit as and when required.

Posted from my mobile device

YazedMA · Answer

Shadwal,

1. How would I know I am ready to take GMAT? At what point should I register for it?
If you take 2-3 practice tests and all of them give you your target score plus/minus 30, then I think you are ready. Always account for variation.

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