FIRST GMAT OFFICIAL MOCK - 545 !!! DISAPPOINTED

Question

I just took my first official GMAT FE practice test from the official site and was devastated by the score I got. I've attached the images captured from the report. I have been studying intermittently for the last few months without proper strategy and direction. Although I'm an engineer by background, also have a master's degree in business but it was 10 years ago. So I lack the concepts, application and strategy for the exam. I would like to hear from the experts and fellow aspirants as to how I should go about the preparation and devise a study plan. I have a target of 695+ in mind .

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kingbucky · Answer

Hi there!

I completely understand how you feel after taking your first official GMAT FE practice test. It's common to feel overwhelmed, especially when you're trying to balance your engineering background with the business concepts that may have faded over the years.

Here are some steps and a study plan that might help you get back on track and aim for that 695+ score:

1. Assess Your Current Level: 
Take a close look at your practice test results. Identify the specific areas where you struggled the most—whether it's quantitative, verbal, or integrated reasoning. This will help you focus your study efforts.

2. Create a Study Schedule: 
Set aside dedicated study time each week. A good starting point could be 10-15 hours per week, depending on your schedule. Break this down into manageable daily sessions, focusing on different topics.

3. Use Official GMAT Resources: 
Make sure to utilize the official GMAT study materials, including the GMAT Official Guide and the question bank. These resources are invaluable for understanding the types of questions you'll encounter.

4. Focus on Concepts and Strategies: 
Since you mentioned lacking concepts and application, consider enrolling in a GMAT prep course or using online resources that offer structured lessons. Websites like Khan Academy(use sparsely for concept clarification), TTP , Magoosh, or Manhattan Prep can be very helpful.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice: 
Regularly take practice questions and full-length practice tests. This will not only help you get used to the format but also improve your timing and pacing. Aim to take a practice test every 2-3 weeks to track your progress.

6. Review and Analyze: 
After each practice test, spend time reviewing your answers, especially the ones you got wrong. Understanding your mistakes is crucial for improvement.

7. Use the GMATClub Forum: 
Engaging with fellow aspirants can provide motivation and support. Consider joining a study group or participating in GMAT Club to share resources and strategies.

8. Stay Positive and Persistent: 
Remember that preparation takes time, and it's normal to face challenges along the way. Stay focused on your goal, and don't hesitate to adjust your study plan as needed.

You've got this! With a structured approach and consistent effort, you can definitely achieve your target score. Best of luck with your preparation!

Cheers!

Archit3110 · Answer

Work on topics which you feel are weak in... use GC tests and official judiciously as if giving in real test environment

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Kavicogsci · Answer

The feedback to take from this is that you have so much potential to grow and are at the right position to start prep.
I have mentioned previously  in this post  on what should be done - take a look and let me know if it makes sense and/or any other tips you may be looking for.

700ScoreFOCUS · Answer

Hey B,

First off, don’t worry too much about that 545! It’s totally normal to feel a bit thrown after your first official mock, especially if you’ve been studying off and on without a set strategy. The important thing is, you now know where you’re starting, and there’s plenty of room to improve.

Here’s what I’d suggest:

1. Figure Out Your Weak Spots:
Check the report and try to see which areas need the most work – Quant, Verbal, or Data Insights. Once you have a clearer idea, focus more on the weaker sections while keeping up with the stronger ones.
 2. Consistent Study Plan:
The key here is consistency. Even if it’s just 1-2 hours a day, regular practice makes a huge difference. Mix in some official GMAT materials, and maybe a prep course if that helps your learning style.
 3. Revise the Basics:
Since it’s been a while since your academic days, going over the fundamentals, especially in Quant, will help. Start with the easier concepts and build up from there.
 4. Mock Tests:
Keep doing mocks every couple of weeks. They’re super helpful for measuring progress, and you can tweak your plan based on how you perform.
 5. Join Study Groups:
Studying with others who are also preparing can keep you motivated and give you new insights. GMAT Club has some good threads for this.

You’ve set a great goal, and with a bit of structure, I’m sure you can reach that 695+ target. If you need any study materials or advice, feel free to reach out!

Good luck!

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi ne29697808096,

A great prep strategy is to engage in topical learning and practice. Using quant as an example, let's say you are studying Number Properties. First, learn all you can about that topic, and then practice only Number Property questions. After each problem set, take the time to thoroughly analyze your incorrect questions. This self-reflection is key to understanding your learning process and improving.

For example, if you got a remainder question wrong, ask yourself why. Did you make a careless mistake? Did you not properly apply the remainder formula? Was there a concept you did not understand in the question?

By carefully analyzing your mistakes, you will be able to fix your weaknesses efficiently and, in turn, improve your GMAT quant skills. This process has been proven to be effective. Number Properties is just one example; follow this process for all Quant, Verbal, and DI topics.

For some more tips on the best way to structure your studying, here is a great article:

The Best Way to Study for the GMAT

Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Good luck!

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