Relaxing technique...

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Relaxing technique...

by avssrs » Tue Apr 14, 2009 9:43 am
Those of us who have already taken the test know that preparing for GMAT is one thing, taking it is another. No matter how good one is at solving |x-3| > n! ? type data sufficiency questions, replicating that knowledge at the test centre is the key.

At the risk of sounding retarded, one technique that I've found especially useful is deep breathing. By that, I mean deeeeeep breathing, 2-3 seconds in, 2-3 seconds out. To be done in those few seconds meant for instructions before jumping into the 75 min Math or Verbal test (this stage is not timed in GMATPrep so use own clock counting down from 60 seconds during practice).

Scored 750 earlier today (49 quantitative, 42 verbal). Slightly disappointed with both quantitative and verbal scores... I was expecting a 770 with 51 and 44, but then I chose to skip the really nasty ones if I couldn't solve them in 1 min so I have myself to blame.

Anyway, I hope this helps others.
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by VP_Jim » Tue Apr 14, 2009 10:54 am
I completely agree with your post. Novice GMATers think that studying is enough - it's not! You have to be in the right frame of mind when taking the test. Freaking out and getting nervous is a sure way to tank your score.

I often use skiing as an analogy. If you're a beginning skier and you start to feel even a little out of control, you start to flail your arms and legs and end up getting a faceful of snow. If you're an experienced skier, you know to "right the ship" so that you don't fall down, and in a few seconds you're once again smoothly sailing down the mountain.

It's the same on the GMAT - staying calm and knowing how to react when things don't go according to plan can gain you lots of points.

Nice job on your test!
Jim S. | GMAT Instructor | Veritas Prep