GMAT Strategy

Hi Celestia!

I would definitely agree with uwhusky about saving OG problems. I also don't see a ton of benefit is working a slew of problems just to get through them. The key to this test is Pattern Recognition - can you see a problem and quickly identify the following:

1) the problem type (proportions, overlapping sets, modifier issues, draw a conclusion, etc)
2) best strategy for that problem type (equal proportions, double set matrix, "modifier tetris", etc)
3) a back-up strategy when possible (picking numbers...)
4) common pitfalls for the problem type (subsets in overlapping sets, relative pronouns, lead-in clauses, extreme conclusions, etc)

The way the best test takers become the best is by understanding the basic question types, knowing the strategies and applying that knowledge in new scenarios. The way to achieve that level of mastery is through quality over quantity. Choose the problem type you want to review (have your tutor help you identify this) and then pick a short set of OG questions from that type. Solve them all together in a short set but then use your review to look for links among the questions. Were there words or clues to tell you what type of problem it was? Did they all use a slight variation on the same theme. If you spend 2 minutes per question to answer them, you should be spending 3-4 minutes per question on the review (the place most people drop the ball). Then once you have reviewed them, do the same set over again right away. We didn't learn to walk by watching someone do it once and then trying it once. In order for things to imprint in our minds we HAVE to sit with them and repeat!

Pattern Recognition is also the key to improved timing: the best way to pick up the pace is to do a better job identifying the problem and the strategy quickly. In this way you buy yourself a bit more time to do the actual calculations or choice elimination without sacrificing steps and accuracy.

Your tutor is your best resource for identifying weaknesses, helping you make some of the pattern connections within problem types if they aren't clear and helping to refine your strategies for specific question types.

It is far better to choose the specific areas to study carefully and in depth than it is to just throw questions at your brain in the hopes that something sticks!!

Good luck with the process and keep on pushing!

Whit