question on CR timing

[voodoo_child]

I recently did a CR practice test on MGMAT. My hit rate was very low (50-60%) and it took me on an average about 2-2.5 minutes to answer the question.

Can anyone please let me know some tips ? I have heard that CR should not take > 2 minutes. However, some questions are so convoluted that I have examine each and every word carefully.


Thanks

Voodoo

[cans]

If some questions are convoluted, i think you should make an educated guess and move forward
instead of wasting time..

[uwhusky]

They say practice makes perfect.

I would also recommend picking up a copy of the Powerscore CR Bible, which goes over every type of CR questions in GMAT, as well as what to look for in correct and incorrect answers.

You're also right that most CR questions should not take more than 2 minutes. Timing is very important in GMAT and can heavily impact your final score.

[arun@crackverbal]

Hi,

There are 3 broad areas where you can "possibly" lower your timing on CR.

1. Analyzing the argument. There is not too much you can do here as the brain will need some time to process the information. This is especially true in the exam state of mind since you will be jumping to CR from SC or RC. However you may want to try this - for assumption based questions you can figure the conclusion/main point ASAP then try building the evidence/counter-evidence around it. If your read the premise up-front it will be hard to assimilate at the first go.

2. Eliminating the wrong answer choices. This is perhaps the area where you can save maximum time. Remember that as long as there is *one* reason for it to be wrong - it is wrong. Don't try to read too much. Also quickly eliminate the "out of scope" and "irrelevant" asap. You can save anywhere between 20 to 40 seconds if done properly.

3. Picking the final answer choice. Here is an area you should NOT be looking at saving time. Ensure you are able to understand the answer choice well. For assumption based questions use the negation technique. For content based questions use the 100% true rule. Make sure you nail it.

Hope this helps,

Arun

[voodoo_child]

Thanks but sometimes I have seen that many questions even require me 3+ minutes (<4). I am not sure whether it reflects lack of practice. Sometimes the stem are so wordy that one has to go through the details to pick out the right choice from 2:3 split.

Any thoughts?

[arun@crackverbal]

Hmm..... Can you post a question that took you time and walk us through the process? That is pretty much the only way we can get to the details.

Arun