Lost focus on practice test - tips to regain?

Expert replies

Montreal06: Senior | Next Rank: 100 Posts; Posts: 30; Joined: Fri Jun 27, 2008 6:41 am; Location: Montreal

by Montreal06 » Sun Aug 31, 2008 12:32 pm

Hi everyone,

Just posting here to vent my complete frustration. Took a PR practice test today and realized I was not concentrating 100%. (Probably because it's the first time, I woke up at 7AM to take a test -- my actual GMAT is booked for this time, so I'm trying to get used to those hours).

I used the tool on the PR tests that gives you the score after each question -- bad idea today. Along with the overall lack of concentration today, I began to freak out a bit and worry each time the score generator indicated an error. As a result, I wasn't fully focusing on the next question.

So for Verbal, I turned off the damned score generator about 1/3 of the way though the section, and comparing with my final verbal score, it made a difference to lose the distracting tool.

So, typically, I score: 46-47Q and about 38-40Verbal.

This time I scored 39Q and 30V. Grrrr. Extremely frustrated.

Anyone have any tips on how to get back the focus on those days when it's simply not there?

I have 5 weeks till D-day and don't want this to be an issue going forward!

Thanks!

Source: Beat The GMAT — GMAT Strategy | Sun Aug 31, 2008 12:32 pm

VP_Jim: GMAT Instructor; Posts: 1223; Joined: Thu May 01, 2008 3:29 pmFollowed by: 15 members; Location: Los Angeles, CA; Thanked: 185 times

by VP_Jim » Sun Aug 31, 2008 3:14 pm

My advice is to simulate the actual test environment as closely as possible. For example, rather than taking your practice tests at home, go to your office or the local library or a quiet coffee shop. For me, even if the TV isn't on (or similar, distracting thing), I find it hard to concentrate at home.

As for the actual test, most people are able to focus a bit better simply by telling themselves that "this time is for real."

Good luck - and great idea taking your practice exams at the same time of day as your actual GMAT!

Jim S. | GMAT Instructor | Veritas Prep

Montreal06: Senior | Next Rank: 100 Posts; Posts: 30; Joined: Fri Jun 27, 2008 6:41 am; Location: Montreal

by Montreal06 » Tue Sep 02, 2008 10:22 am

Hi Jim,

Thanks very much for your advice!

The home is indeed distracting regardless of how quiet it is...and it feels a little too comfortable - exactly what the exam center will not be!

I think I'm going to try the quiet coffee shop thing next weekend.

Thanks again,
R

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