GMAT test-takers often wonder, “Is it necessary to buy the GMAT Official Guide? ” The Official Guide is published by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the creator of the GMAT. So, it certainly seems to be a good GMAT prep resource. But is the Official Guide the only resource you need, or even necessary at all?

Depending on what resources you use and how your GMAT preparation goes, you may not need to buy the GMAT Official Guide. Some people achieve their GMAT score goals without using the Official Guide. Others find that using the Official Guide helps them to achieve their goals. So, the Official Guide is useful but not 100 percent necessary for effective GMAT preparation.

One way to determine whether you should use the Official Guide is to take an official practice test toward the end of your preparation. If your score on an official practice test indicates that you need more practice to achieve your score goal, then it may make sense to purchase the Official Guide.

Key takeaway: You can determine whether to buy the Official Guide by taking a practice test later in your preparation.

Reach out to me with any questions.

Warmest regards,
Scott