How dependable are the paper tests?

[chatekar]

Today I solved one of the paper tests released by the GMAC. I got a score of 770. But I think the test was very easy. How does this compares to the real GMAT? Is the real GMAT too of same level as the paper test?

Thanks

[Stacey Koprince]

The paper tests are easier than the adaptive tests and generally not a great indicator of how you'll do on the CAT. At the same time, it still isn't easy to get a 770 on a paper test, so nice job!

If you want to get a more accurate gauge of your current scoring level, download the GMATPrep software from www.mba.com and take one of those tests.

[chatekar]

Stacy thanks a lot for your timely reply.
I have already solved the GMATprep tests, once before starting the study(I scored 630) and once in the middle of my preparation(I scored 700). IF I retake those tests, whats the probability that I will see the same questions?
Also, is there any other good source which follows the level of real GMAT, other than OG and these tests?

My GMAT is on next moday, so I have only a week in my hands

[Stacey Koprince]

Well, I think my company's tests are pretty good

You may see some question repeats on GMATPrep - I don't know the actual probability, but there are likely to be a few, unless your scoring level has changed a LOT since you took the first two tests.

You can also try to see if you can get your hands on the old PowerPrep software (the prior version of GMATPrep). Not quite as good as GMATPrep but better than the old paper versions.

In fact, any reputable private company's CAT tests (us, TPR, Kaplan) will be better than the old paper versions. I'm pretty sure you can sign up to take one of ours for free (we used to do this and I don't know why we'd stop, but you'll have to check and see), and I'm sure at least one or both of the other companies do this too as a marketing thing, so that can give you another test or two for the next week.

Don't do too many tests in the next week, though - that's like running a practice marathon every day the week before you run a real marathon. You'll burn yourself out.

[kevincanspain]

One thing you can say for GMAC paper tests is that all of the questions are of GMAT quality, which is more than I can say for some questions I've seen in forums. They are excellent practice and if you follow the time constraints imposed, they are a great indicator of where your strengths and weaknesses lie. The quant content seems to have evolved a bit since the 1990´s, but paper tests are really good practice in the early stages of your prep

[Stacey Koprince]

As individual questions, yes, they are high quality. But the CAT format and algorithm completely change how you take the test - so by all means use the CAT tests as individual practice questions. But don't expect your actual test experience to be remotely close to what you would experience by taking a paper test in its entirety - the CAT is very, very different.