its a long test

[gmatrant]

I find the GMAT full test toooooo long. So far I had taken tests section wise in span on 1 to 1.5 hrs at the max. Its difficult to sit for 3 hrs and 40 min for the full test, by the time I get to verbal section ,my eyes are so tired, and my concentration has dwindled to its lowest ebb that getting through the verbal section becomes difficult.

Can anyone give me some good suggestions as to how to overcome this situation.

I enjoy the test till the math test, verbal especially RC really gets tiring at the end.I hope I could choose which section to take first?

I really dont know how to address this issue???

[casbroker]

Take the test as a challenge and pump yourself up to kick the test in the teeth! View each question as getting one closer to your goal. It also helps to get good sleep before the test. Good luck!

[yuri]

Red Bull or Rock Star, I'm serious - in the breaks. However, they contain vitamins, so you might have to go to the bathroom. Also, try Ritalin or Adderol (anti-ADHD pills). Kids take the to concentrate at school. Adderol made me only more tired, while Ritalin made me so hyper, i couldn't concentrate. Red Bull has been the best for me.

[beatthegmat]

I think the best way to prepare is to get used to the timing of the test--the only way to do that is to take a lot of practice tests.

Some light exercise might be good for you too. The GMAT is indeed an endurance test, and being in good physical shape will help you stay focused.

In terms of yuri's suggestions to use caffeine or controlled substances--I'd be hesitant to recommend these options. They can be a bit risky...

[Stacey Koprince]

Avoid caffeine unless you cannot find any other way - you will not think as clearly, plus caffeine's a diuretic (makes you have to go to the bathroom). And you definitely shouldn't use drugs unless you have been taking them for a long time and are sure there aren't any side effects or other problems. (Also, don't take drugs unless they are prescribed to you for a legitimate reason.)

On the breaks, get up, walk around, have something to eat and drink, stretch, do some jumping jacks. Just pump yourself up - you have 10 minutes.

Also, make sure you find the best time of day, when you're most alert and awake. Don't take the test late in the day if you're a morning person or vice versa.

[gmatrant]

Avoid caffeine unless you cannot find any other way - you will not think as clearly, plus caffeine's a diuretic (makes you have to go to the bathroom). And you definitely shouldn't use drugs unless you have been taking them for a long time and are sure there aren't any side effects or other problems. (Also, don't take drugs unless they are prescribed to you for a legitimate reason.)

On the breaks, get up, walk around, have something to eat and drink, stretch, do some jumping jacks. Just pump yourself up - you have 10 minutes.

Also, make sure you find the best time of day, when you're most alert and awake. Don't take the test late in the day if you're a morning person or vice versa.

I know this sounds a bit weird to ask.. but nevertheless here I go.
I would love to have something hot, but in the test center will one be able to get coffee/tea(preferable tea). I would like to drink something hot after the math section (before the verbal) just to get some energy or should I take hot drinks along with me.

[beatthegmat]

How about buying a high-quality thermos, which you can keep in your locker?