GMAT Strategy

Hey guys,

I am struggling a bit with my GMAT confidence...I am a lawyer by training although i've been working in finance (MNC'S) for the past 10yrs (so i really should be mastering this GMAT Business..but i am not!!!) so much so that i am wondering if I am "business school" material. I made a mistake of hiring a GMAT Tutor without much background research and the company only had one available in South Africa. I definitely don't feel like I'm getting much out of this tutor - he is young and somewhat inexperienced. is it really worth spending additional funds on MGMAT tutors or should i just postpone applying to b-school until next year to allow myself time study on my own. In other words, are the MGMAT really good enough to help me polish up to get a decent score (650 -700) in 2-3mo?

thanks,
M

Hi Rich,

Thanks for the note.

I've done about 6weeks of study thus far...I initially took the diagnostic test and scored 410 - didn't finish both sections.
My biggest challenge is that its been a good 12yrs since i graduated from college and even longer since i did high school math - some days i feel i like i've got this and other days i feel stupid

I am using the MGMAT books, I find their books thorough albeit too much.

Any tips on how i should break-down my study plan going forward?

M

It is strange that manhattan instructuors have not responded to this post . I am still hoping they would respond ?!!!

Hey M,

So the 410 is not shameful at ALL, especially if you didn't finish both sections. In fact, it's to be expected. Pacing is a HUGE component of the exam, and you're really docked when you don't finish. Was this on the GMATPrep 1?

That said, it sounds like what you're considering is "throwing money at the problem," which is, in my opinion, NOT a good mindset for a healthy GMAT study plan.

Are MGMAT tutors good? Sure, but as with any large test prep company, you'll be assigned a tutor and it's a little bit luck of the draw. Will this person be able to customize a study plan for YOU? Will you be able to communicate effectively? It's all a bit up in the air.

Here's what I'd suggest:

- start the "ground work" on your own first. Get the right books (OG13, MGMAT SC, etc.) and start to build your content knowledge -- it sounds like you just need a LOT of refresh on Quant concepts -- it's do-able!

- do a quick "check in" with a tutor to set up a study plan based on the number of hours you can devote to the GMAT each week -- I do this a lot with my new students, and I'm sure MGMAT will allow you to purchase a
couple hours to try them out if that's the company you'd like to work with -- but I think a trial lesson is a good idea before buying a hugely expensive package. I believe MGMAT is $220/hr, but correct me if I'm wrong.

- create an "Error Log" for your practice CAT so you can start to get a sense of your strengths and weaknesses

Many students earn a 650+ after 2-3 months of study, but Rich is right, it takes hard work. My guess is your 6 weeks of study has been somewhat haphazard and without proper strategy. The tough thing about the GMAT is you have to hit Content, Strategy, AND Pacing all at once. Here's a link so you can see what I mean: https://gmatrockstar.com/online-gmat-tutor/

Good luck!

Hey M,

Forgot to attach this Error Log template -- this is the kind of review I mentioned earlier. Good luck!