GMAT Strategy

I have taken the GMAT six times in a span of 2 years. My highest score is 590 and the range is 430-590 whereas the median is 550. I did self-study for all the exams and had used the following materials:-

OG 11
Kaplan Premier
MGMAT SC

I wish to apply to the Sauder School of Business and Babson Business School for the one year MBA program. The last time I wrote the GMAT was one year back. I feel I can improve my scores and so I have decided to take the GMAT for one last time. To change my strategy, I have broken down topics in both Quant and Verbal and have developed notes for each section(Source 4GMAT materials) and a few verbal notes from this forum(Sumit's verbal notes). I would like to take the test in the last week of October 2009 which means I have close to two months of time left. My strategy now is to review the notes for each section individually and work out problems in that topic and assess my weak areas. Also, I am planning to take practice tests(once a week) for the next 7 weeks.

I would appreciate it if the experts can throw some light on my strategy. Also, will the school view my multiple GMAT attempts negatively(biggest concern)!!

Oh, a little bit about my profile:

1.Indian

2.Commerce graduate

3.Work Experience of close to 4 years (2 in financial services and 2 as an entrepreneur)

4.GMAT Score 590

5.First class in academics


Thanks

Raj

Hi Raj,

Stay positive!

As you go through your tests, remember to look at every problem you've done. Don't just focus on mistakes. If you got an answer correct, see if there is a more efficient way to do so; if you got it correct in a cool or clever way, see if that same technique can be applied to other problems.

Time yourself while practicing. The pacing of a GMAT can be very hard to learn because if you mess up the timing of the first five questions, you won't get any feedback that you have done so until nearly an hour later. The way to learn to pace yourself is by doing small numbers of questions in short, strict time limits, and working up to longer and longer quizzes.

Make sure you're taking breaks. Don't slack, push yourself hard, but make sure you have some time to yourself, and also some time for essentials like sleep, food, and exercise. Literally write them into your schedule if necessary!

Finally, consider getting some help. If self-study hasn't been doing it for you, you might need a teacher or tutor to get your back and help you realize your goals.

Best of luck with your studies!