Expert please~

Share feedback about this free GMAT prep guide
This topic has expert replies
User avatar
Senior | Next Rank: 100 Posts
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed Mar 27, 2013 4:37 am

Expert please~

by little mice » Fri Apr 19, 2013 3:48 am
Today, I just finished my second prep1 test. Unfortunately, my performance declined.560(49, 18)[the first time:610(49,23)] Today's misirable result partly because I still got 10 verbal questions unfinished when the time was up.

Seems my reading skill is really a problem, because I have to read several times to figure out what the question stem was saying.(particular SC,and CR)

So, please give me some suggestions, thanks!
Source: — The 60-Day GMAT Study Guide |

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
GMAT Instructor
Posts: 16207
Joined: Mon Dec 08, 2008 6:26 pm
Location: Vancouver, BC
Thanked: 5254 times
Followed by:1268 members
GMAT Score:770

by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Fri Apr 19, 2013 7:12 am
I wouldn't place a lot of weight on one practice test.

It sounds like you have a time-management problem. If reading is really slowing you down, you might consider skipping questions that are particularly long. For example, some CR questions have very long passages and long answer choices as well. Even native English speakers have problems completing these questions in a timely manner. If you skip these questions, you might increase your score.

Now I should mention that the best strategy is to read at a fast enough pace so that time is not an issue. However, increasing one's reading speed is easier said than done. So, you might consider the above strategy.

Regarding time management: I suggest that you use a Milestone Chart to keep you on track. This is covered in our free GMAT time management video at https://www.gmatprepnow.com/module/gener ... es?id=1244

Finally, when it comes to Reading Comprehension (RC), there is not one specific approach that works best for everyone. I always recommend that students spend some time experimenting with different strategies to see which one best suits their memory, reading speed and English proficiency.

When it comes to Reading Comprehension (RC), it's crucial that you engage 100% in the passage. Rather than approach a new passage with dread ("I don't enjoy reading it at all"), try to feign interest ("Excellent! This passage is about stock market regulations in Mexico!"). The better your engagement, the better the results.

You'll find additional tips to help you better engage with the passage in this free video: https://www.gmatprepnow.com/module/gmat- ... on?id=1123

I hope that helps.

Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
Image

User avatar
Senior | Next Rank: 100 Posts
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed Mar 27, 2013 4:37 am

by little mice » Fri Apr 19, 2013 6:30 pm
Hey, Brent, Thanks for your help!! Frankly, I have already finished Manhattan reading comprehension guide, and took notes thoroughly.

So, maybe it's practice time~~ Do you think having a habit to read daily is helpful? Or I should just focus on RC passages from retired gmat exams, expecting a better result?


Hope you have a good day today~~ :D

User avatar
Senior | Next Rank: 100 Posts
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed Mar 27, 2013 4:37 am

by little mice » Fri Apr 19, 2013 6:32 pm
Brent@GMATPrepNow wrote:I wouldn't place a lot of weight on one practice test.

It sounds like you have a time-management problem. If reading is really slowing you down, you might consider skipping questions that are particularly long. For example, some CR questions have very long passages and long answer choices as well. Even native English speakers have problems completing these questions in a timely manner. If you skip these questions, you might increase your score.

Now I should mention that the best strategy is to read at a fast enough pace so that time is not an issue. However, increasing one's reading speed is easier said than done. So, you might consider the above strategy.

Regarding time management: I suggest that you use a Milestone Chart to keep you on track. This is covered in our free GMAT time management video at https://www.gmatprepnow.com/module/gener ... es?id=1244

Finally, when it comes to Reading Comprehension (RC), there is not one specific approach that works best for everyone. I always recommend that students spend some time experimenting with different strategies to see which one best suits their memory, reading speed and English proficiency.

When it comes to Reading Comprehension (RC), it's crucial that you engage 100% in the passage. Rather than approach a new passage with dread ("I don't enjoy reading it at all"), try to feign interest ("Excellent! This passage is about stock market regulations in Mexico!"). The better your engagement, the better the results.

You'll find additional tips to help you better engage with the passage in this free video: https://www.gmatprepnow.com/module/gmat- ... on?id=1123

I hope that helps.

Cheers,
Brent
Thanks for your patience and the websites~~