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Same Score

by anb » Thu Oct 23, 2008 11:48 am
Hello Everyone,

I took the gmat back in June and scored a dismal 560. I started studying again in Sept, with hopes to take it again in Nov-end.

I have taken two MGMAT practice tests (second one today) with the following scores:

600 - 36Q 36V
600 - 37Q 35V

I'm obviously not improving, so I am in need of some advice. My knowledge of the math content is pretty good. I am using MGMAT SC so that has improved for me, but could be better. I am currently reviewing the powerscore CR bible with hopes of improving CR. I hope to improve RC with practice. And of course, I'm using the OG with the 40problem/grid matrix.

It seems that once I'm in test mode, I do not apply my strategies well - all is lost - and hence, I do not consider myself a good test taker. When I reviewed my errors on the first MGMAT test, I couldn't believe how easy many of questions I got wrong were.

I know that I need to understand why I got problems wrong and how best to fix that error, and I'm trying to do this, but it doesn't seem to be working. My goal is to hit 650 (at least) and I know I can do this, but these practice test scores have surely given me a punch in the face.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
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by VP_Jim » Thu Oct 23, 2008 1:16 pm
I think that for the strategies to work, they have to become second nature. For example, when I see a problem with variables, my "default" mode is to start plugging in numbers. If that doesn't work, I go to "real math" using equations and such. Most people, I think, are the opposite way - they try the "real way" first, then the tricks.

The more practice problems you do, the more it will become second nature to use the tricks and strategies you've learned. You need to get to the point where your brain says "Oh, I've seen a problem like that before! That's the one that I solved by ______." Then, you'll be able to attack the problem effectively, using the GMAT strategies you learned rather than other ways that may or may not work.

So, if you really think you've done all you can with the OG (which I doubt - I'd still practice the problems out of there until you have them memorized), go out and get the supplements to the OG and any other practice problems you can. Remember to keep up the analysis, too - don't just blow through tons of problems.

Good luck!
Jim S. | GMAT Instructor | Veritas Prep
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by anb » Fri Oct 24, 2008 9:55 am
Thanks for your reply VP_Jim!

After some more digging and reviewing my errors for Q, it seems that I can identify a few weaknesses.

On both CATS, I got DS questions wrong that relate to absolute value (with inequalities) and number properties (GCM, is n/18 an integer, etc.). I also noticed that on both CATS I got questions wrong relating to fractions in the problem (word problems). I need to learn when to plug in numbers and when to solve. Typically, I go directly to solve, but it seems picking numbers is the best/fastest way to go. This, coupled with careless errors I make has really brought my score down.

I'll focus more on these concepts. Any good strategies for attacking these?
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