Hi Everyone,

I Just got back from writing the GMAT and thought I'd share my story. I view my score as a success even though it doesn't really compare to the scores mostly discussed on this website. Below is a breakdown of my scoring throughout this journey.

GMAT PREP TEST 1: 520 Q19 V39 (this breakdown may not be accurate as I did not write it down)
GMAT PREP TEST 2: 550 Q36 V31
PRINCETON REVIEW: 690... Not even going to break this one down, seems to me like this test is flawed. I got half of each section incorrect so a 690 should be impossible.
GMAT PREP TEST 1 (round 2): 540 Q32 V33

ACTUAL GMAT: 590 Q36 V35

My preparation took place over a month long period in which I focused mostly for the 3 weeks leading up to the test. A 550 was my target as it is the required score for my desired programs. I took my first GMAT prep test with no prior studying (although I did take a 3 day gmat prep course about a year ago, so I remembered bits and pieces about the exam). At this time I'd like to mention that I have never been quantitatively gifted and have never enjoyed doing any form of arithmetic. My job does not require me to be strong in this area. Furthermore, my job offers me the luxury of creating as much work for myself as I see fit. Therefore, I was able to study during the day at work for an average of 3 hours per day for 3 weeks.

My study guides were the 12th edition OG and Magoosh online lessons (https://gmat.magoosh.com/). I only used the quantitative portion from Magoosh. I understand that you could probably search the web for all of their content and save yourself $250, but I wanted to have everything in one easily accessible place. The lesson videos helped me understand the concepts and if I got a question wrong there would always be an accompanying video to show me where I screwed up. Also, I truly believe studying off of a computer screen gave me an advantage with the real GMAT because I was used to answering questions in this manner.

As far as G-Day goes, I was up at 4 am (awoke from a "I slept through my alarm" nightmare) for an 8 am exam. Made sure I had a good amount to eat although it was hard because of the nerves. I had the luxury of walking to the test center which helped calm me down. Took a snack and an energy drink which really helped keep me alert during verbal. The exam was very much like the prep tests however, it definitely tests your endurance. Do not be intimidated by the test centers the one I was in was very comfortable.

If I had to offer any advice to people in the same position that I was (trying desperately to get at least the minimum requirement for their desired program) it would be as follows.

- Give yourself at least 2 weeks to learn the basic concepts in whichever area you are weakest
- Allow for a week to work through heaps of practice questions after establishing a solid understanding of the basic concepts.
- Don't be afraid to put the book down if you are feeling burnt out. Have a couple beers. Literally a couple though, as in 2 max, ha ha.
- Adjust your sleep schedule well in advance so that you are used to being fully awake during your scheduled exam time.
- During the exam, use your breaks to walk around and clear your head. Please note: the 8 minute break are the fastest 8 minutes of your life!
- Do the practice exams provided by MBA.com and do them at the time your real GMAT exam is scheduled.
- Exercise regularly or at least go for walks, try to limit the booze and refrain from toking.
- When finished, imbibe in whatever makes you happy, treat yourself!


Thanks for reading, feedback/questions is/are welcome!

Cheers!