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Best way to cram for the GMAT

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Best way to cram for the GMAT

by krunkchris » Wed Feb 04, 2009 11:43 am
Im taking the test Feb 19th, and I need advice on the best way to cram for this test, and the main points to focus on which make the biggest score difference. Please if anyone could help me with advice, or if anyone has crammed in a short time like this any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, -Chris (600 target score)
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by VP_Jim » Wed Feb 04, 2009 11:48 am
I hate to break it to you, but cramming generally doesn't work very well. That said, if you don't have a choice (and I'll assume you don't), here are the easiest places to cram:

1. Learn the few most common sentence correction error types.
2. Review your basic math, such as number properties, algebra and geometry rules, etc.
3. Get a prep book and practice some of the basic tricks and shortcuts, such as plugging in numbers for math.
4. Do problems from the Official Guide, focusing on the middle 50% of each section.
5. Make sure to take at least a couple practice tests (the GMAT Prep tests from mba.com are best) to practice your pacing.

Don't bother studying the hardest stuff, since you don't have time and you're unlikely to see it unless you're scoring 700+. For example, feel free to ignore permutations and combinations, except maybe the most basic formula. Reading comp is also a tough place to cram.

Good luck!
Jim S. | GMAT Instructor | Veritas Prep
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by krunkchris » Wed Feb 04, 2009 12:02 pm
is a 600 a reasonable score to look for if cramming for 2 weeks? because that is what i was told i would need to be admitted to the MSF program of my choice.

Thanks again
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by Jen Kedro » Wed Feb 04, 2009 2:25 pm
I would say, with regard to your question about 600+, that it really depends upon your starting point. I have seen people score 600+ with just a couple of weeks of study, but every individual is different. Those who start with relatively strong math skills, strong logic skills, and generally strong test-taking skills will need less time to reach higher scores than those without those traits and skills. The average GMAT score of all test-takers is about 540, to give you a frame of reference. Anyway, follow the tips suggested and good luck!
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by VP_Jim » Thu Feb 05, 2009 3:20 pm
As Jen says, of course whether 600 is reasonable depends from where you're starting. If you're starting from 250, then no, 600 is probably not reasonable. But, if you're starting from 570, it definitely is. There's no way to tell without knowing your baseline.

Keep in mind that the average improvement in a two month prep course with any of the GMAT prep companies ranges from about 70-120 points. So, realistically, you can't expect to go up 100 points in two weeks. Could it happen? Sure. But it's not likely.
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by krunkchris » Sun Feb 08, 2009 1:50 pm
Ok so i took my first timed full length practice test. This was the online practice test from the Kaplan GMAT premier program book. I scored a 570!! Q was 65% (24 correct, 7 wrong, and i didn't make it in time for the last 7). Verbal was 54% (22 correct, 19 wrong).

My breakdown
Q- problem solving was excellent, however the data sufficiency portion was defiantly my weakness.

V- sentence correction was my weakest part of the test, and reading comp was not much better however I was not in the best focusing environment.

I have decided to attempt taking this test in 2 weeks and shooting for the 600 range score. now after seeing my baseline for the GMAT, could anyone help me analize my test results and give me advice. Also info on if the test is going to be harder/easier then the Kaplan Gmat book practice test? or any info like that would be greatly appreciated so im not surprised when i take the actual exam..

Thanks again, -Chris
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