Getting to V85+ in GMAT Verbal Requires Deeper Reasoning, Not Just Strategy

Achieving a 715+ GMAT score generally requires a Verbal section score of V85 or higher. To reach that level of performance, we need to use sophisticated thinking when tackling Verbal questions. Let’s talk about why that’s the case.

Many test-takers can reach the V60–V70 range by studying the concepts, learning the strategies, and practicing consistently. They apply basic frameworks for answering questions, and that works well for easier and even medium-level questions. However, that same approach tends to break down when the questions become more challenging — which they will if your goal is to earn a top score.

The tougher Verbal questions are not just about knowing grammar rules or spotting obvious assumptions. They often involve subtle logical gaps, complex argument structures, or nonobvious relationships between answer choices and key ideas in the passage or prompt. To identify and evaluate those elements effectively, you need to go beyond surface-level thinking.

In other words, for harder Verbal questions, we can’t rely on rigid techniques or shortcuts. We have to engage with the questions on a deeper level, analyzing the logic, interpreting nuance, and comparing ideas in a more flexible and thoughtful way. This is especially true in Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension, where test-makers often reward test-takers who can distinguish between similar-sounding but logically distinct answer choices.

So, if your target is a 715+ score, you’ll need to sharpen your reasoning skills and adopt a more advanced approach to Verbal prep. Focus not just on getting the right answer, but on understanding why each wrong answer is wrong and how the correct one holds up under scrutiny. That kind of thoughtful practice is what leads to the scores at the top of the scale.

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

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep