How much should I study?

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gpb14: Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts; Posts: 4; Joined: Wed Sep 15, 2010 7:40 pm

by gpb14 » Wed Sep 15, 2010 7:47 pm

I'm sorry if this question has been asked before. I just started studying for the GMAT last weekend and did the diagnostic test from the Official Guide and took the first Official GMAT Practice Test. I was pleasantly surprised with my results:

CAT Test:
700 Overall
Quantitative - 45
Verbal - 40

On the diagnostic test I got above average or excellent for all the question types.

That being said, I would say my goal score is probably in the 740 range. My question is how much time should I study for the test? I'm almost concerned that if I study too much I might get too bogged down into details and my score might actually drop. Sounds crazy but it's just my gut feel.

Also, I don't have any application deadlines looming as I'm not applying until next Fall.

Thanks!
George

Source: Beat The GMAT — GMAT Strategy | Wed Sep 15, 2010 7:47 pm

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Dan@VinciaPrep: Master | Next Rank: 500 Posts; Posts: 384; Joined: Sun Nov 01, 2009 9:54 amFollowed by: 13 members; Location: Paris; Thanked: 92 times

by Dan@VinciaPrep » Thu Sep 16, 2010 11:26 pm

gpb14 wrote:I'm sorry if this question has been asked before. I just started studying for the GMAT last weekend and did the diagnostic test from the Official Guide and took the first Official GMAT Practice Test. I was pleasantly surprised with my results:

CAT Test:
700 Overall
Quantitative - 45
Verbal - 40

On the diagnostic test I got above average or excellent for all the question types.

That being said, I would say my goal score is probably in the 740 range. My question is how much time should I study for the test? I'm almost concerned that if I study too much I might get too bogged down into details and my score might actually drop. Sounds crazy but it's just my gut feel.

Also, I don't have any application deadlines looming as I'm not applying until next Fall.

Thanks!
George

A general rule is that if you should get your target score three times on good practice tests (like GMATPrep, the one you took) then you're ready to go. Manhattan GMAT also has some good practice tests and the PowerPrep tests are good too. I've never heard of anyone over studying for the GMAT, but it's true that you can peak at the wrong time.

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odannyboi: Master | Next Rank: 500 Posts; Posts: 112; Joined: Wed Aug 18, 2010 9:25 pm; Location: City by the lake; Thanked: 3 times; GMAT Score:630

by odannyboi » Fri Sep 17, 2010 2:33 pm

What guides are you using for your prep? I am jealous of people like you... study 1 week and get an elite score. I've been studying for 2 months and got a high of 580. Anyways, If I were you.. maybe a few weeks then take the exam.

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