My opinion is that paper practice tests from any company - the one in the OG included - are pretty well worthless. There is no way that a paper test can simulate the experience and the scoring of a CAT.

The GMAT Prep tests tend to be the most accurate predictors of performance on the actual GMAT, so I would (unfortunately) trust them much more.

If you're scoring sub-500, it's definitely more important for you to study the basics rather than take more practice tests. Break out the OG some more and truly analyze every problem in that book.

I know I have to do more the OG questions, but since I am running out of time so I want to know if I should do half the OG questions and also spend some time on the CATs. I just started the Kaplan premier book yesterday.(maybe it is too late) I am working on some of the basic math concepts and formulas. In comparison with most other talented people here, I am just trying to get a low score(600). I studied for about a month now( 4-6 hours a day, 7 days a week). I am doing my best in handling two children and the test preparation. For the record, I am the same as others, first time ever study for any test this hard. Again, truly thank you for your reply.

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I agree with Jim on focussing on the basic part 100%.


Just my 2 cents worth:

If u ever want to take a practice test sometime before your GMAT then:

Focus on GMAT PREP (can be reinstalled(do reinstall after clearing the old files from your C:\) and u will get some new questions each time but some of them may be repeats) and try doing it as many times as possible.

If u search for on google or this website u will see the solutions for almost every question(if u make a mistake then understanding the concept behind it is the key if just so u know what to do if u get something similar on the real thing).

I have seen some take it 6-8 times

Good luck!

Most people have a hard time studying more than a couple hours per day; that may be part of the problem. It's very difficult to get anything out of studying when your brain is spent and tired. It may even be counterproductive.

In any case, given your score, I'd focus more on the OG. Do the other GMAT Prep exam, too. Most of your study should consist of analyzing practice problems. CATs are good for pacing work, but not as good for studying.

I'd agree with most of the posts here, specifically that you should use actual CATs to practice your pacing and stamina and assess your scoring, as opposed to tests in a book. You might very well need to focus on basics, as other posters have said--but hopefully you have a feel for what your areas of strength and weakness are based on your performances so far? Math versus verbal, specific question types, specific math topics? That will guide you as to where you need the MOST help. It's also important to consider how much your weaknesses show up on the test. With algebra the most commonly tested math topic, if that was your main weakness for example, you would REALLY want to study that basic algebra content, and so on.

For many people, practicing on the computer is preferred to get into that test like mindset, and taking several full length CATs is recommended. After you take each CAT, spend time analyzing your performance and reviewing your answers and explanations to really improve and enhance your learning.

Good luck on your prep!

Thank you all for the comments. I am planning to take a CAT tomorrow( have not made up my mind to do Princeton or GMAT Prep). I have read through SC, CR, and math sections in Kaplan premier book. I learned some new tips and shortcuts. My weakness is rate, number property types of questions. Most of the time when I take the CAT, I feel very exhausted(didn't feel this bad on the paper test). Yes, it took me a while to get used to study 4-6 hours a day. I am actually fine with it now. I take breaks about every 2 hours. I just feel I want to do more questions and review more. (can't stop:).. I don't know anyone feel this way too. I will start doing OG questions the second time. I am not sure if I will get through all the questions, so I will start from the last 100 questions. I feel the last 100 questions on Problem sovling and Data sufficiency are challlenging. Are those questions above 600 level? For example, the last 10 problem solving questions are much harder.

Happy thanksgiving to everyone.

I remember saw a table that is break down for each sections on the gmat. Can anyone forward it to me? I took a princeton CAT today. I didn't do so well on the verbal(only score 26 with 14 minutes remained). English is my second language. Ironically, when I take the CAT, I always felt the Verbal part is easier or at least less headache. However, I always score low on the verbal. Since I have only 2 weeks left, until my G day. What should I do? aim for more verbal practice or quantative practice???

A couple of quick responses to some of your questions-- the OG questions for each question type are in order of difficulty, from least to greatest difficulty.

Try to continue to practice on the computer as much as possible though, especially as you mentioned you find it more tiring to do on the computer, which is often the case.

In terms of math versus verbal, do try to continue to do some of each section prep, to keep your skills up and your mind prepared for each section. Also aim for areas that you are weaker in that you think you can still improve, whether they are within math or verbal.

Good luck!