Best way to get started?

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Best way to get started?

by jakecc17 » Sun Apr 17, 2011 7:10 pm
I've never been a fan of studying, but I do realize that I can't just roll out of bed to take this. Have always winged it. Got me through undergrad. So far, I've put it off for 6+ months, but now I need help.

Does anyone have a specific plan that has worked for them?

I downloaded the flashcards and have the gmat book.
Source: — GMAT Strategy |

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by Trekib » Sun Apr 17, 2011 7:31 pm
Set a target score and establish a baseline by using GMAT Prep, take CAT 1 (practice test 1). GMAT PREP is free on MBA.com and scores identical to the actual exam. Be sure to complete the AWA at the beginning to get a more accurate prediction of your score. If your target score is 100 points higher than your baseline you need at least a month of prep. Schedule your exam to allow time for proper preparation based on your results. Next, sign up for the BEAT the GMAT 60 day study guide. You will receive an email everyday and it keeps you on track. It's a good starting point to cover the material. Download the error tracking tool and progress chart. Track your errors and scores so you can better focus on areas of weakness and progress on your practice tests.

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by jakecc17 » Sun Apr 17, 2011 7:37 pm
Thanks, after I posted, I found some of those tools that you have mentioned. I will look into the other ones as well. Thanks

I only wish the GMAT was about leadership, decision making, and justification of actions; verse what the test is.

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by Trekib » Sun Apr 17, 2011 7:42 pm
I would like to add the above is the approach I took and might not be the best course of action for you. Goodluck
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by nikhilsrl » Mon Apr 18, 2011 9:33 am
Hello jakecc17,

I agree with what Trekib said, each person has specific requirements. You can read the different study methods (there are many esp in this forum) and figure what is best for you. Sometimes you may want to use a mix of different methodologies. For eg I am getting back to studies after a gap of more than 10 years and so I guessed the normal stuff is not going to work for me. So I tailored the methods for my needs. Eg I did not take a GMAT Prep test before starting off. I saved them for the last.

All the best.

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by jakecc17 » Mon Apr 18, 2011 4:11 pm
I appreciate all the comments.

Taking this isn't the top of my list, but I know in the long run it will be beneficial. In this environment, college degree is the new high school diploma, graduate is the new college degree, and so on.

I don't understand, I took this pt-time job just to do something that pays. I made more money while in college! The people I work with are like, my bosses, 22-23 no degree and making tons of more money. So I'm banking on an MBA to finally knock my salary need/wants out of the ball park.

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by Carl Incognito » Mon Apr 18, 2011 7:18 pm
Just to add to what's already been said, one key aspect is to regularly take practice CATs to assess how you're doing and see whether you're improving in the key areas. If you sign up with any of the major prep providers (Kaplan, Princeton Review, MGMAT, Knewton etc.) you will be provided access to 4-6 CATs. Each provider also has 1 free test you can take from their websites. So those tests together gives you at least 6-8 practice tests as resources. Combine that with the 2 GMAT Prep tests, and you can space out practice tests, doing 1 a week or so, over your entire study period. After each test, you can review results and chart errors, and work to improve your weaknesses before the next test.

I'm just starting out with studying for the GMAT though, so my comments might not be the greatest advice haha. I'm outlining my study plans and results as I go on my blog (https://carlincognito.wordpress.com/) if you want to check it out!