I just Beat The GMAT!

Help me! After nearly 4.5 months of studying for the GMAT, yesterday I took the test for the first time and scored a 380. I'm not sure what I am doing wrong during these tests, as most of my practice tests have been in the 480 range. When I do the practice problems in the OG12, I am able to get a decent portion of the questions in the book correct. I have already taken a prep class, so I must have done something wrong in preparing for the test. I know that this score is not a true refection of my capability. I don't want to give up just yet, as I hope to retake the test again, but only if I can pull my score up by at least 200 points.

Has anyone ever been in a similar situation before and managed to pull up their scores? And what did you do differently that gave you the improvement in scores?

kjricha wrote:Help me! After nearly 4.5 months of studying for the GMAT, yesterday I took the test for the first time and scored a 380. I'm not sure what I am doing wrong during these tests, as most of my practice tests have been in the 480 range. When I do the practice problems in the OG12, I am able to get a decent portion of the questions in the book correct. I have already taken a prep class, so I must have done something wrong in preparing for the test. I know that this score is not a true refection of my capability. I don't want to give up just yet, as I hope to retake the test again, but only if I can pull my score up by at least 200 points.

Has anyone ever been in a similar situation before and managed to pull up their scores? And what did you do differently that gave you the improvement in scores?

Hi,
While I have not had to deal with a GMAT retake, I can make a few suggestions for you.

1. Put this past score in your past. Forget about it, don't think about it and move on. Don't let this discourage you and get you down. Be confident that you will practice, work hard at your areas of improvement, and get that score you want.
2. Key in on your weaknesses. Throughout your studies I'm sure you have identified areas and subjects that give you trouble - focus on these and practice these types of problems.
3. Take real practice tests! Nothing is better than simulated, test taking experiences. I know there are several sources for these practice tests, so do as many as you can. Practice, practice, practice.

Good luck, and believe you can do it!!