How to improve

Question

I keep doing quant questions and looking at the explanations (of the ones I get wrong), but when I face a similar problem again in a set of practice questions, it seems like I can't do it again.

I never seem to learn and remember new methods of solving questions, even after reviewing my mistakes. Any solutions?

pushpitkc · Answer

Hi  suwaidahmedkhan

I would recommend making a note of the reason why you got a question wrong.
This learning should be written down on a separate piece of paper. Let me try
to illustrate this with an example. Lets say, you have a DS problem involving
numbers and you get the problem wrong because of not including a range
(from -1 to 0)

Make a note of this learning and read this from time to time. So whenever, you
come across such a question you will be remember to include this range. 
Additionally, I think you should try the GMATClub Tests. IMO, diligently solving 
these 1200+ questions is enough to improve your score to Q49-50.
Hope this helps you!

DavidTutorexamPAL · Answer

Different people have different ways of approaching problems.
If there is a specific technique / set of techniques that you just don't get, it is often best to try working around it instead of trying to force yourself to learn.

For example, if you find that translating long word problems into equations and then solving explicitly confuses you, try using the answers or picking numbers instead.
Specifically, in questions you get wrong don't read just the first solution - read all the solutions and see if one of them makes more sense to you then the others.
This is also useful in questions you get right but take you a very long time to solve - is there a faster way you could have used?

Once you know what type of solution approach works best for you, then by all means do as explained above and write down your mistake reasons, and practice.

Good luck!
p.s. if 'different learning approaches' appeals to you, try our system! This is exactly how it works - by adapting the approach to the student.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi suwaidahmedkhan,

Before I can offer you the specific advice that you’re looking for, it would help if you could provide a bit more information on how you've been studying and your goals:

Studies:
1) How long have you studied?
2) What study materials have you used so far?
3) How have you scored on each of your CATs (including the Quant and Verbal Scaled Scores for each)?

Goals:
4) What is your goal score?
5) When are you planning to take the GMAT?
6) When are you planning to apply to Business School?
7) What Schools are you planning to apply to?

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

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