The Mistake That Keeps Holding Back GMAT Scores (And How to Fix It)

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve spoken with GMAT students who asked me the question, “How do I improve my GMAT score?” yet were not following a structured study plan. Many of these students were using a few GMAT study books and practicing hundreds of random questions. They were hoping to master GMAT quant and verbal by simply reviewing the solutions to problems they had encountered. If that situation reminds you of something you’re currently doing, I have some news for you: your current study method is unlikely to result in an increase in your GMAT score.

Remember, there are hundreds of topics that you must be familiar with in order to perform well on the GMAT. It is impossible to learn so much information without following a well-structured study plan. For GMAT preparation, a linear, topic-by-topic approach is the most effective way to ensure that you master each GMAT topic. If you use such an approach, you won’t waste time practicing questions before you’ve mastered the fundamentals of the material.

So, the structure of your GMAT study plan should be to learn one topic at a time. Then, practice what you’ve learned by answering questions that are specific to that topic before moving on to the next topic in your study plan. Start with the fundamentals and work your way up to more advanced concepts. This method of study will be a game-changer for you.

Also, be careful not to confuse “doing a lot of GMAT work” with “doing the right kind of GMAT work.” Just because you're spending hours on prep doesn't mean you're making progress—especially if you're jumping from topic to topic without a plan. A structured approach keeps your study time focused and purposeful. It helps you build a solid foundation and then layer more advanced skills on top of it, which is what leads to meaningful score gains. So, if you’re serious about improving your GMAT score, commit to a plan that emphasizes structure, progression, and mastery.

Reach out to me with any questions about your GMAT prep. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep