Struggling to beat the nerves of the exam and stay focused throughout

Question

I gave the GMAT yesterday, got a score of 605 (Q 82, V 83, DI 75). The reason that DI is so low is that the last question was unattempted as it was done on the last second and i didn't click the next button fast enough. That's why I think DI is so less. 
 
The paper did feel harder than the mocks (got 645 consistently on them) I would love to hear from y'all what I can do to improve as i have to give it again in January for my target school - MICA. The score i need is 645+ 
 
I would love to know about various techniques where i can improve my focus till in the end and not get so tired where i make silly mistakes like this and improve.

AjiteshArun · Answer

Hi anshgupta433,

First off, you did well on both the quant and verbal sections, and you have a good overall score. As for DI, you'll likely get your ESR very soon. Use that to check how your DI section actually went. For example, if there were a lot of mistakes apart from the last question, you may want to work on your DI skills in addition to working on time management. Otherwise, you may already be very close to your target score.

GmatKnightTutor · Answer

When your score report arrives, replaying what happened as you look over it could provide some insight. Perhaps you recall some questions you were confident you got correct but, looking back, may potentially have made a careless error on (e.g. Q1 Quant). Consider sharing your score report here if you can as well. People may provide a few suggestions regarding next steps.

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi anshgupta433,

You're not alone. Many students have no trouble successfully answering practice questions, and completing practice tests at home, but on test day, their test anxiety significantly reduces their performance.

Some possible strategies to reduce test anxiety include exposure therapy (visualizing exam day situations that trigger your fear response), positive visualization, reducing negative self-talk, and turning anxiety into excitement.

This article has several suggestions to reduce your anxiety:  How to Eliminate GMAT Test-Day Anxiety

It's also worth mentioning that overcoming obstacles such as test anxiety is all part of the test. What's important is to develop the mindset necessary to gain insights from your weaknesses.

Here’s an article that explains this in greater detail:  How GMAT Students With a Growth Mindset See Their Mistakes

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