GMAT Strategy

Hello,
I continue to absorb as much knowledge as possible from the forums - great resource! I am excited to get studying but don't want to just pick up books and read. I'm impressed with how much discipline everyone has when it comes to a study program and also find it interesting how much the topic of running or working out comes up when discussing studying for the GMAT.

I have been following a strict running plan for years now and find it extremely satisfying to follow a plan. I've just never really applied that same strategy to studying so have come here to ask for your thoughts, not on the best strategy, but how to find the best strategy for me.

I jumped the gun a little and purchased OG 12, OG Verbal and OG Quant books today as everyone seems to think those are must haves. I have not yet opened them and do not plan to until I have a strong strategy in place.

From reading the forums it sounds like I should take the GMATPrep from MBA.com and post my results here so the combined wisdom of the group may help lead my way to a proper study plan. I just want to verify this with the experts so confirmation of this would be much appreciated.

I'm willing to take it one step at a time but wanted to make sure I at least have step one in place. I'm a bit nervous about taking the practice test as I have been out of school and in the "real world" for ten years and am very rusty in the tested areas. I have confidence that it will come back quickly through a strong study program though!

In the meantime, if any beginning runners need advice feel free to shoot questions my way and I'll be happy to trade knowledge!

I think you're off to a good start. Taking a practice test is always a good first step - you can't design a study plan if you don't know your ability level and weaknesses. I would, however, recommend holding off on the GMAT Prep tests. There are only two of them, and they are the most accurate tests available since they are made by the GMAC. Thus, they should be used sparingly - I think at the 1/2 and 3/4 marks of your prep are good places to use them.

In the meantime, you can use the free tests offered by the prep companies. Here's ours:

https://www.veritasprep.com/gmat-prepara ... tice-GMAT/

After you take a practice test, I'd advise getting a prep guide (or taking a course) before touching the OG. As you'll soon realize, the explanations in the OG aren't the best, as the GMAC obviously doesn't want to give away the "tricks of the trade." Since I'm biased towards Veritas, I'll let other people steer you in the direction of a book or course.

Hope this helps!

Thanks VP_Jim. I have read quite a bit of your advice in the forums. I am going into research overload on developing a strategy and now it's all just getting jumbled.

I fully realize that everyone will have a strategy that best suits them. Back to the running analogy - the majority of first time marathon runners go with Hal Higdon's beginner training plan:
https://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/novices.html

It's not complicated and seems to work for most beginners. I'm looking for something similar - some place to start. There are multiple reading materials with multiple sections and multiple practice tests.

I don't plan to take any GMAT courses and feel comfortable studying on my own. I just really need a solid plan to stick to and know I have the dedication to stay with it.

From there I think I can take the GMATPrep test after a couple of months of study to reevaluate where I need to dedicate the remainder of my time prior to the test.

Any Hal Higdon-like GMAT study guides out there that work for the majority of people starting off? I really want to focus on studying smart and not spending too much time just browsing material.

Thanks a ton all!

So it sounds like I should take a practice test first, right? I know I'm all over the place but really working to figure out a game plan before just diving in and reading the OG from front to back.

From the sticky at the top for Best Practice Tests it shows as number one:
https://www.manhattangmat.com/free-gmat.cfm

VP_Jim has also offered their test. Is there a particular practice test that might be best to help me determine my game plan? Is there a certain test that most people take first? I know the tests from MBA.com should be used later so I will hold off.

I know the OG has the paper Diagnostic Test. I have read that this might be the way to go for my first test prior to studying. If so, should I do this timed or just make it through and then post my results here?

Thanks so much for your help. I'm willing to take this one step at a time but eager to start studying. I really appreciate all responses and advice.

scoseg, have you read this: https://www.beatthegmat.com/720-96th-per ... t-t13.html
or
https://beatthegmat.blocked/2005/08 ... ience.html

I think you should start there.

There's no short cut through this.

You have to find what works best for you and Eric's detailed blog is as good a place to start as any other to find out what others have done.