Understanding Question Types vs. Practicing?

[dubc1982]

When one is studying for the GMAT how much of the process would you allocate to being able to understand the question types and knowing the format of the test vs. practicing? In case I'm unlcear, here's an example:

I was supposed to take the GMAT in October, but decided to take a new job. I studied for about 3 months and felt I was fairly comfortable with everything and should have done fairly well.

I'm starting to study again, and have 3 months before I will take the real GMAT. Normally part of your study process would to familiarize yourself with the questions and format of the test. How long would you say an average person spends on this over their total course of study?

I ask because I'm wondering if some who says they studied for 3 months did maybe 3 weeks of "learning" the test, then the rest of the time practicing.

I just want to gauge how my actual study time stacks up against people with high scores and what not.

[VP_Jim]

Hi there,

I don't see a difference between "practicing" and "knowing the test". How I recommend students study is to yes, work a bunch of problems. But more importantly, they need to thoroughly analyze every question that they do, whether they get it right or wrong. This analysis should focus on adapting the question to the test strategies. For example, in sentence correction, don't be content if you got something right because "it sounded right". Step back for a few minutes and adapt that question to the strategies of whatever prep course/book you are using. This will give you practice on doing questions and knowing the test strategies at the same time. I recommend an average of five minutes per question when doing homework, to ensure thorough coverage.

Also, do practice tests! As you probably know, a big part of the GMAT is pacing. Practice tests are your time to practice your pacing.

Of course, you also need to know how many minutes per section, the number of questions, etc. But, the real focus of your study should be adapting the strategies you learn to as many different questions as possible.

Does that answer your question?

[dubc1982]

Yes it does. Thank you very much!