All of these posts bring up something interesting. Ultimately, what is the purpose of the GMAT and what does it indicate. Think about it, there are people out there who got probably score a 720, say, simply based on their ability and things they’ve picked up in school. Then, there are people who would "really" score a 650, say, but actually scored a 720. What does it say about these two individuals - one using pure ability for numbers, patterns and language; the other using strategies he learned from a few books and some software?
It has been written that the GMAT is a good indicator of how well or poorly one will perform in an actual academic setting. Is this really true? I think not, and there is a plethora of examples.
Does the GMAT test your knowledge of mathematics and Standard English? Or, does it test your ability to prepare for a test that does not allow you to use a calculator for rather simple problem, and thus makes it difficult. Also, I am absolutely convinced that GMAC is aware of the fact that many of the questions will not be entirely solved/evaluated in the time provided. Instead, test takers will choose an answer based on limited information. Is that, then, what is being tested. Your ability for abstract thought, memorization, or your speed of judgment?
Finally, does it test pure intelligence through the administration of commonly recognized shapes, patterns, etc?
Just a thought.
It has been written that the GMAT is a good indicator of how well or poorly one will perform in an actual academic setting. Is this really true? I think not, and there is a plethora of examples.
Does the GMAT test your knowledge of mathematics and Standard English? Or, does it test your ability to prepare for a test that does not allow you to use a calculator for rather simple problem, and thus makes it difficult. Also, I am absolutely convinced that GMAC is aware of the fact that many of the questions will not be entirely solved/evaluated in the time provided. Instead, test takers will choose an answer based on limited information. Is that, then, what is being tested. Your ability for abstract thought, memorization, or your speed of judgment?
Finally, does it test pure intelligence through the administration of commonly recognized shapes, patterns, etc?
Just a thought.












