I'm applying to Shippensburg PA and their requirement for the gmat is 450 and there is a limit of 25 seats in the MBA program. It's first come first serve. I'm wondering what kind of a study strategy I should put into place? I've heard so much stuff about how hard the GMAT is but is a 500 or so doable over winter break? Part of me wants to do it right and study my rear end off for 8 weeks and get the best score I can get, but if I don't get my gmat score soon enough I won't get into the MBA program - Ship is a state school and I'm not sure how much of a difference a higher score than 450 would make? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! And what study program should I get? Thanks!
I don't know anything about that school specifically, but a 450 is more than do-able, and if you can spare at least 30 days of solid study-time, you'll probably be able to do a 500 or even a 600+ if you're a strong test-taker and fairly solid at algebra and geometry already. Here's a few basic tips to get you going!
Start with the Official Guide. Learn the format, content, and do a general overview of the GMAT test itself using the OG 12th editions. Make sure to go to MBA.com and take advantage of the GMATPreps.
Study every day, and don't procrastinate! You will need to be disciplined about your studies. Work backwards from your test date. Don't cram on the weekends only! With only one month to study, you'll need to do at least some GMAT every single day.
Use MGMAT SC & Powerscore CR to supplement your materials. After the OG, these are two Verbal books that can take your score to the next level.
Join Grockit, and download Beat the GMAT's free flashcards. These online GMAT sites are vital to building your comfort level with the computer-based format of the GMAT.
Study in short, intensive blocks. GMAT study blocks that are too long will ultimately wear you down. Make sure to rotate your study topics often and abide by it, even if you'd like to squeeze in a few more hours. Staying up all night to complete yet another practice test is not always the best choice.
Create an Error Log. Re-take quizzes and practice tests from the very beginning of your GMAT studies. Do you find yourself getting the same questions incorrect? This can be a sign that you haven't learned the content you think you have. Be honest with yourself about what is "sinking in" and what is not. Use an Error Log to assess (some are downloadable from BTG). Review all questions. Use the 40/60 rule. 40% of your time should be spent actually answering questions. At minimum, 60% of your time should be spent reviewing.
Take at least 1 GMAT practice test per week. Don't take your practice tests sitting cross-legged on you bed. Utilize your desk and scratch pad as you would on the actual test. Your body needs to adjust to what it feels like to take a 3+ hour test. Because you only have one month to prepare, you should plan to take 4 practice tests, although 6 would be ideal.
Use a strategy for each question type. Not only do you have to choose a strategy that works for you, but you have to implement it every time, practicing enough so that is becomes second-hand. Ballet dancers practice their pirouettes millions of times, so that when they perform on stage they don't have to think about it. You want that same built-in knee-jerk reaction for each GMAT Q-type.
Good luck!
