GMAT Test Preparation

Many candidates take the GMAT exam to get into a business school, as almost all prominent business institutions consider the GMAT score. The examination pattern of GMAT is clearly designed to test the type of skills required in a candidate to succeed in an MBA programme in the field of accounts, commerce, finance, and business. Using GMAT scores, both Verbal and Quant, B-schools can see how applicants can prove themselves in a standardised way.

This standard computer adaptive test is also considered as the criterion for admission by many institutes, because of its popularity, authenticity and acceptance.

For over 60 years now, the format, syllabus, and content of the GMAT exam have changed quite a lot. The latest and most noteworthy update made in 2012, was the introduction of the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section.

GMAT computer adaptive test measures an applicant’s potential by testing his/her knowledge on various parameters to determine their expertise. There are four sections, based on the score of which students are given admission in a B-school.

Students might find it tough to stick to the above time management plan for GMAT. Therefore, to make it easier, students can answer each question (verbal and quant section) in a span of 2-minutes. This will make the total time allotted for Quant and verbal section come within 10 minutes.

The most ideal approach to get ready for GMAT is to pursue the schedule set by GMAC and follow the books and examination material given by the test-creator. Test takers can also refer to other sources, to get extra help for scoring high well.

Since questions from previous tests are never repeated, hence, the chances of getting higher scores do not depend on how many times a candidate practices the exam.

1. Start your preparations early, as it would take several months to complete. If you are a working professional, it can be hard juggling other aspects such as personal and professional commitments along with GMAT preparation.

2. Try giving your best in the first attempt to avoid having to reschedule the exam.

3. Avoid common errors, such as an excessive focus on grammar and avoiding AWA preparation until the last minute.

4. Keep an eye out for college deadlines.

5. Since GMAT is a computer-based exam, hence, writing or highlighting important points in books will cultivate unproductive habits.

6. It is good to refer to other sources but, the official GMAC material is designed especially to meet study requirements for students of all categories – beginner, intermediate or advanced level.

7. Always set your foundations straight, understand and practice time-saving techniques. Quality of preparation matters during the GMAT.  So, follow the strategies to score higher in the Verbal and AWA sections of the exam.

8. It is best to follow a combination of classroom/ self-study for the best results.

9. Start taking practice tests available at the official website of GMAT. This will help you to know your starting point in terms of GMAT score and further help you to set a targeted GMAT score.
10. Try setting your target at least 50 points ahead to ensure that you safely reach your required score.