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22 Oct 2024, 00:58
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Hello everyone!
I'm excited to share my GMAT journey with you all. As an engineering graduate with 10 years of work experience, I decided to take the GMAT to keep my options open for the future.
My journey began with a diagnostic score of 655. While this wasn't bad, I knew I had room for improvement, especially in the Verbal section. On a friend's recommendation, I explored e-GMAT and was immediately drawn to its structured approach and comprehensive resources.
Verbal:
Verbal was my biggest challenge, particularly CR. Initially, I would get confused with all the answer options, thinking everything was a possible answer choice. The course introduced me to the pre-thinking technique, which was a game-changer. Suddenly, I could eliminate 2-3 options right away, narrowing it down to the last two choices. I could see the arguments clearly for the first time.
RC was another area where I saw significant improvement. The reading strategies taught me to slow down and truly comprehend the passages. I remember one instance where I was rushing through a dense biological essay, getting lost in the details. After applying the new strategies, I could grasp the main idea and structure, making the questions much easier to tackle.
Quant: Fine-tuning and Time Management
Coming from an engineering background, I had a good foundation in Quant. However, I struggled with time management, often getting stuck on challenging questions. This is where the PACE feature helped me focus on my weak areas.
The PACE engine's adaptive learning approach was incredibly efficient. It quickly identified my strengths and weaknesses, allowing me to focus on areas that needed improvement. For example, in Number Properties alone, I was able to save over 15 hours of study time by targeting specific concepts rather than reviewing the entire topic.
I'll never forget the feeling of completing the Quant section with 4-5 minutes to spare on test day – a far cry from my initial practice tests where I was rushing through the last few questions.
Mentorship
The LMP program transformed my GMAT journey in ways I hadn't anticipated. My mentor, Abha, started by creating a tailored study plan based on my strengths and weaknesses. This wasn't just a generic plan; it was broken down into clear milestones, each with specific targets for Quant, Verbal, and DI sections. Having these concrete goals made my preparation more focused and manageable, giving me a clear roadmap to follow.
One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the regular check-ins. We had calls to discuss my progress, address any challenges, and adjust the study plan as needed. These consistent check-ins kept me accountable and motivated throughout the process. It was comforting to know that I had someone in my corner, ready to provide guidance and support whenever I needed it.
The data-driven approach of the LMP program was also amazing. Abha used the detailed analytics from my course attempts to identify areas for improvement. I remember when we noticed that I was struggling with Inference and Boldface questions in Critical Reasoning. Instead of just telling me to practice more, Abha developed a targeted plan to improve these specific question types. This level of precision in addressing weaknesses was something I couldn't have achieved on my own.
Perhaps the most underrated aspect of the LMP program was how it boosted my confidence. Abha's belief in my abilities, even when I doubted myself, was a constant source of motivation. There were times when she pushed me to my limits, but it was always with the understanding that I could achieve more than I thought possible.
Mock Tests and Test Day
In the final weeks, I focused on taking mock tests and fine-tuning my strategy. I discovered that official mock tests were slightly easier than the actual exam, so I made sure to use a variety of practice materials.
One key realization was the importance of test sequencing. In my early mocks, I followed the Quant-Verbal-DI order. However, I noticed that if my Verbal section (my weakest area) didn't go well, it would negatively impact my performance in DI. This insight led to switching to a Quant-DI-Verbal sequence. The impact was immediate and significant - my scores jumped by 20-30 points!
Time management during mocks was initially a significant challenge, especially in the DI section. I often found myself rushing through the last few questions or, worse, leaving them unanswered. To address this, I adopted a strategy of taking a few quizzes in relaxed mode before switching back to timed practice. This approach helped me get a better grasp of my pacing and question-solving approach without the added pressure of time.
On test day:
I started with the Quant section, feeling confident and well-prepared. The questions seemed fine, though a few were more challenging than I anticipated. I still kept my calm and answered the questions as per my planned time. I was able to finish the paper few minutes before time and was able to revisit the critical questions as well to double check –helping me secure Q90 score.
The DI section followed, and this is where I faced my biggest test-day challenge. Almost from beginning, I felt incredibly thirsty. However, the strict proctoring rules meant I couldn't simply take a sip of water without using my only break (I had planned for the break before verbal). This unexpected discomfort was distracting, but I forced myself to focus on the task at hand, drawing on the mental preparation techniques I'd practiced. However, I did see myself perform lower than expected in this section.
After completing DI, I took my scheduled break before the Verbal section. This break was a lifesaver. I used it to hydrate, stretch, and mentally reset. The importance of this strategic break cannot be overstated - it allowed me to approach the Verbal section, historically my weakest, with a fresh mind.
The Verbal section felt more manageable than in my practice tests, possibly due to the combination of extensive preparation and the mental reset during the break. I was quite satisfied with my overall performance in Verbal.
Key Takeaways
To all future test-takers: trust the process, stay consistent, and don't be afraid to adapt your strategy. With the right mindset and resources, you can achieve your GMAT goals.
Best of luck to everyone on their GMAT journey!
Akhil
I'm excited to share my GMAT journey with you all. As an engineering graduate with 10 years of work experience, I decided to take the GMAT to keep my options open for the future.
My journey began with a diagnostic score of 655. While this wasn't bad, I knew I had room for improvement, especially in the Verbal section. On a friend's recommendation, I explored e-GMAT and was immediately drawn to its structured approach and comprehensive resources.
Verbal:
Verbal was my biggest challenge, particularly CR. Initially, I would get confused with all the answer options, thinking everything was a possible answer choice. The course introduced me to the pre-thinking technique, which was a game-changer. Suddenly, I could eliminate 2-3 options right away, narrowing it down to the last two choices. I could see the arguments clearly for the first time.
RC was another area where I saw significant improvement. The reading strategies taught me to slow down and truly comprehend the passages. I remember one instance where I was rushing through a dense biological essay, getting lost in the details. After applying the new strategies, I could grasp the main idea and structure, making the questions much easier to tackle.
Quant: Fine-tuning and Time Management
Coming from an engineering background, I had a good foundation in Quant. However, I struggled with time management, often getting stuck on challenging questions. This is where the PACE feature helped me focus on my weak areas.
The PACE engine's adaptive learning approach was incredibly efficient. It quickly identified my strengths and weaknesses, allowing me to focus on areas that needed improvement. For example, in Number Properties alone, I was able to save over 15 hours of study time by targeting specific concepts rather than reviewing the entire topic.
I'll never forget the feeling of completing the Quant section with 4-5 minutes to spare on test day – a far cry from my initial practice tests where I was rushing through the last few questions.
Mentorship
The LMP program transformed my GMAT journey in ways I hadn't anticipated. My mentor, Abha, started by creating a tailored study plan based on my strengths and weaknesses. This wasn't just a generic plan; it was broken down into clear milestones, each with specific targets for Quant, Verbal, and DI sections. Having these concrete goals made my preparation more focused and manageable, giving me a clear roadmap to follow.
One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the regular check-ins. We had calls to discuss my progress, address any challenges, and adjust the study plan as needed. These consistent check-ins kept me accountable and motivated throughout the process. It was comforting to know that I had someone in my corner, ready to provide guidance and support whenever I needed it.
The data-driven approach of the LMP program was also amazing. Abha used the detailed analytics from my course attempts to identify areas for improvement. I remember when we noticed that I was struggling with Inference and Boldface questions in Critical Reasoning. Instead of just telling me to practice more, Abha developed a targeted plan to improve these specific question types. This level of precision in addressing weaknesses was something I couldn't have achieved on my own.
Perhaps the most underrated aspect of the LMP program was how it boosted my confidence. Abha's belief in my abilities, even when I doubted myself, was a constant source of motivation. There were times when she pushed me to my limits, but it was always with the understanding that I could achieve more than I thought possible.
Mock Tests and Test Day
In the final weeks, I focused on taking mock tests and fine-tuning my strategy. I discovered that official mock tests were slightly easier than the actual exam, so I made sure to use a variety of practice materials.
One key realization was the importance of test sequencing. In my early mocks, I followed the Quant-Verbal-DI order. However, I noticed that if my Verbal section (my weakest area) didn't go well, it would negatively impact my performance in DI. This insight led to switching to a Quant-DI-Verbal sequence. The impact was immediate and significant - my scores jumped by 20-30 points!
Time management during mocks was initially a significant challenge, especially in the DI section. I often found myself rushing through the last few questions or, worse, leaving them unanswered. To address this, I adopted a strategy of taking a few quizzes in relaxed mode before switching back to timed practice. This approach helped me get a better grasp of my pacing and question-solving approach without the added pressure of time.
On test day:
I started with the Quant section, feeling confident and well-prepared. The questions seemed fine, though a few were more challenging than I anticipated. I still kept my calm and answered the questions as per my planned time. I was able to finish the paper few minutes before time and was able to revisit the critical questions as well to double check –helping me secure Q90 score.
The DI section followed, and this is where I faced my biggest test-day challenge. Almost from beginning, I felt incredibly thirsty. However, the strict proctoring rules meant I couldn't simply take a sip of water without using my only break (I had planned for the break before verbal). This unexpected discomfort was distracting, but I forced myself to focus on the task at hand, drawing on the mental preparation techniques I'd practiced. However, I did see myself perform lower than expected in this section.
After completing DI, I took my scheduled break before the Verbal section. This break was a lifesaver. I used it to hydrate, stretch, and mentally reset. The importance of this strategic break cannot be overstated - it allowed me to approach the Verbal section, historically my weakest, with a fresh mind.
The Verbal section felt more manageable than in my practice tests, possibly due to the combination of extensive preparation and the mental reset during the break. I was quite satisfied with my overall performance in Verbal.
Key Takeaways
- Time management is crucial. Develop a timing strategy for each section and stick to it.
- I strongly recommend while deciding the section order always go for strong>weaker sequence.
- The official practice tests may be slightly easier than the actual exam – don't rely solely on them.
- Utilize breaks strategically to maintain focus throughout the test.
To all future test-takers: trust the process, stay consistent, and don't be afraid to adapt your strategy. With the right mindset and resources, you can achieve your GMAT goals.
Best of luck to everyone on their GMAT journey!
Akhil
Attachments
Quant_Exam_timing.jpg [ 68.81 KiB | Viewed 974 times ]
CR Improvement_during eGMAT course.png [ 61.73 KiB | Viewed 958 times ]
Archit3110
Major Poster
22 Oct 2024, 05:40
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Congratulations for score.. all the best with applications
23 Oct 2024, 19:48
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Congratulations Akhil! Nice first post!
