Need help with the mocks and tackling time related pressure

Question

Hi Guys,

I am in dire need for some advice regarding my prep. I don't know what I should do to improve my score while tackling time and exam type scenarios.

I am able to solve some tough questions on all the topics in practice sessions but when I give mocks, I suck even at the the easy ones. I get nervous regarding the time and it kind of does a mental block to my thinking process. I gave two mocks and had low scores in the range of 515-550s. I noticed that I got first few questions wrong on all the topics and then after that it is kind of tough to get back to the high score brackets. While revieing the questions, I realised that I knew the answers on the first instinct but with over analysis I picked the wrong ones.

Any adivce on how to get better at this will be helpful.

Thanks in Advance.

Atul

bb · Answer

Hi. It’s not an uncommon issue so the good news is that other people have been able to solve it and you will be able as well.

I could recommend two easy immediate things:

1. Do all your practice questions and studying under very tight time conditions. Never attempt a question without a clock.

2. warm up before the test so you don’t get into it cold and then it takes time to warm up, make sure you warm and ready to go.

If the above doesn’t work, you can try the opposite and you can try taking a practice test without a strict time limit. GMAT club tests have study mode which allows you to take as much time as you want I taking an on-time test so you can get a few for how long it really takes for you to go through the test and What you need to do and also you may be surprised how well you handle the time will give you more confidence.

PS. I assume you’ve covered most of the topics and that’s why you’re taking tests? Or are you still very much in the middle of your studying?

Posted from my mobile device

atulpatel · Answer

Hi bb,

Thanks a lot for the advice. Yes, I have covered all the topics.

Currently in the OG practice mode. I have exhausted all the materials of OG and Extra Official Prep, Currently solving as many as I can from the GMAT Club question bank.

I was following the TTP prep style which said that speed will come automatically but somehow, I got too used to take extra time to solve medium and hard questions.

I will try to follow your advice.

Thanks again!

Atul

bb · Answer

Stress is the only thing that will come automatically 😂

Speed should improve, that’s true, but the point of strict timing is not help solve questions faster, but to light fire under you and stress the heck out of you.

Posted from my mobile device

atulpatel · Answer

Agreed!

Also, any insights on what a decent warm-up before the mocks/test should look like? Thanks.

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi atulpatel,

Improving your timing on the GMAT is a journey that requires a blend of strategic practice and managing exam stress. By consistently practicing under timed conditions, you'll gradually get used to the pressure. Creating a mental map of each section before you start will give you a sense of direction, helping you know which questions to tackle quickly and which to spend more time on, boosting your confidence and motivation.

Understanding and addressing your weaker areas is crucial. The more comfortable you become with the material, the faster you'll be able to navigate questions. Learning shortcut techniques, especially for quantitative questions, can also significantly reduce the time you spend on each problem, giving you a sense of control and capability.

Since anxiety seems to play a significant role in your performance, integrating mindfulness or relaxation exercises into your routine might help. Techniques like deep breathing or brief meditation before starting the exam can calm your nerves.

Lastly, always take the time to review your practice tests thoroughly. Understanding where you lost time and why will prevent you from repeating the same mistakes and help you become more efficient. With patience and persistence, you'll see your timing improve.

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