Questions on Sackmann's Math Book

Question

A few days ago, I posted my concerns with a GMAT math guide: Jeff Sackmann's Total GMAT Math. Here's my second try at it.

After reading some positive reviews, I decided to purchase the book. Although my expectations were high for this product, I certainly realized that a good score would mainly come from hard work, consistency, and determination - things that no book can provide.

After a few chapters, something felt off. The book does cover a great deal of topics, but the amount of space devoted to each section is miniscule - 1.5 to 3 pages at most. The rest is spent on questions. This would normally be fine, but it seems that the book doesn't cover the material sufficiently for readers to answer the end-of-chapter questions. I have dealt with and looked at other math guides, and they don't seem to share this characteristic.

Is my approach to this book wrong? I'm concerned that, even after reviewing the answers, I will only be able to answer these  particular questions  and not different ones because I lack the necessary math skills and concepts.

If anyone can shed some light on this, I would be VERY grateful.

BM · Answer

In case anyone would like some more background information, please refer to this post: how-i-upgraded-my-700-to-a-770-q50-v44-82149-20.html#p637416

mohater · Answer

Touch base with Calicpa as he recently purchased some of Jeff Sackmann's products. question-about-jeff-sackmann-sets-84971.html

CaliCpa · Answer

I haven't had a chance to go through them yet, but it seems pretty tough. The Extreme set seems to be useless for test takers unless you are at a 46+ level to begin with. I didnt get the GMAT Math Book from Jeff, but I would say that going through the MGMAT books, taking the tests, and then using the tests to review the sections you dont understand, should get you to a 700 level. I took a MGMAT test yesterday, and scored a 690. I went back through the questions I got wrong in math, and then went back through that chapter, and did end-of chapter questions for that section to verify that I know the material. To get above 700, I think one needs a little more. I think that is where the GMAT Club and Extreme set come into play. These resources truly teach you to think outside the box.

BM · Answer

Thanks CaliCpa.

I'm using Number Properties right now. It's quite good, although a little basic. Still, this is probably the foundation I need for quant. I've decided to stop studying Total GMAT math.

And does anyone know a good statistics/probability book for GMAT preparation.? One of the few books mentioned is Project GMAT, but that is too hard to find (at a reasonable price) and probably overkill.

Thanks again!

topher · Answer

I bought the Extreme Challenge and the Data Sufficiency Challenge and studied them both in between my first and second attempts. In my opinion, they are good for extra practice questions, but they didn't increase my score. My first attempt: Q49. My second attempt: Q49.

I guess the main benefit for me was just to have some more questions to practice from and keep my skills sharp. I do think one benefit of these challenges is they are closer to GMAT style questions than MGMAT. Also, the explanations are very good. I don't remember the prices he was charging, but if his whole set is over several hundred dollars, I would only purchase a few of his sets and spend the rest elsewhere.

BM · Answer

He offers 1,800 questions for $250. The difficulty ranges from easy to very difficult (700+). I will pass on these questions and just use GMAT Club's stuff when the time is right.

TheRob · Answer

Hi surfing today I just found these books

Do you know anything about them?

anshey · Answer

I think a lot of people here use the GMAT Hacks challenge sets. I am using Total GMAT Math and getting a lot out of it.

BM · Answer

Glad to hear that the book works for you, anshey. For me, however, the book's approach didn't suit my tastes. I'll come back to it a little later, maybe.

Overall, the Extreme Challenges receive fairly positive reviews.

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