Careless GMAT Mistakes Are Completely Preventablebeat

Become aware of your own tendency to make careless mistakes. This awareness is one of the most effective things you can do to reduce your chances of making them. If you are aware of your patterns, you can catch yourself in the act of making a mistake. In other words, you can alert yourself before you make a specific type of mistake.

Consider the following scenario: you notice a pattern of answering questions that aren’t being asked. So, you start double-checking what the question is asking before you choose your answer. You make sure, for example, that you do not answer a question about Theresa’s age when you’re asked to determine Martha’s age.

Or let’s say you notice that you frequently mix up numbers or lose track of calculations that involve math skills about which you are confident. After noticing that pattern, you could review your note-taking techniques and brush up on your calculation skills.

Making careless errors is quite common among test takers. Correcting them will have a significant positive impact on your GMAT score. Your error log will assist you in understanding the types of errors that are preventing you from making significant improvements in your score. So, make a note of any instances of your getting a question wrong due to a careless mistake, as well as the nature of the mistake.

Reach out to me with any questions about your GMAT prep. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep