Hi Michael,

Once you're scoring at that level, the difference in scores is as much about your organization and thoroughness as it is about understanding the content. At the higher levels, the GMAT becomes really "sensitive" to little mistakes, so 1-2 silly mistakes at the wrong point could hurt just enough to turn a 51 into a 50. The adaptive algorithm works in such a way that the little mistake(s) likely wouldn't be on any question that you consider difficult - they're more likely to occur on a mid-level prompt (and could very well be on DS questions).

Once you know the content and tactics, the ultimate way to protect yourself against silly mistakes is to make your "process" fool-proof. Write everything down, do nothing in your head, leave nothing to chance.

Is there a specific reason why you're putting so much emphasis on this one part of the GMAT? Are you looking to apply to a particular program/school?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich