Didn't beat it -- 560 (32Q/34V)

[firesenshi]

Hi guys, new here.
I don't understand what's wrong because on my practice tests, my scores are totally the opposite. I used to get higher in Math than in Verbals, and then the score showed differently.

I took a sabbatical from work for a month just to study and I guess... it still didn't pay off.

Anyway, my practice tests aren't that good, mostly around the 500s as well. I took mostly Kaplan self-study because the classes that are available in my country aren't that good. I used to be good in algebra, calculus and other college math but I don't know where that went. (I've been out of school for 10 years.)

When I took the test, I had many number properties thrown at me, as well as problem solving and algebra. I guess I thought Geometry was my weakness so i prepped there more. Should I have concentrated more on number properties then?

I do have some questions (and sorry if they sound stupid... but it is my first time....)

• What would be the best option for self-study?

• Since I've been out of school for 10 years, should I just take an EMBA instead of an MBA?

• What should be the biggest concentration for quantitative on GMAT?

• And finally, is it possible to enter a top 20 school with my score?

Thank you, guys!

[mike22629]

In my opinion, your first mistake was Kaplan. Manhattan Study Guides are WAY better. Get the GMAC Official Guides as well and do every question. Go over every answer until you understand exactly WHY all the wrong options are wrong and why the correct answer is right.

As far as getting into a Top 20 School, I'm no expert but it will probably be difficult. The application process is about the whole picture so if you are VERY strong in all other areas I'm sure its possible, but admissions experts generally recommend to be in the middle 80% of GMAT scores for school.

If Top 20 is your goal, you will get there. Good luck!

[firesenshi]

so kaplan really isn't that good? i see a lot of people recommend manhattan.

i think i'm gonna go check those out -- the official GMAT guide and manhattan study guides. my weakness seems to be number properties and problem solving. i checked out amazon and it seems they have specialized study guides.

thank you so much for the help!