Looking for help with my quantitative score

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Looking for help with my quantitative score

by Gmat456 » Thu Mar 14, 2013 3:42 pm
I have the opportunity for my company to sponsor my part time MBA. For the particular University I am applying for, they require a minimum 25th percentile quant score among other things. I am admittedly very bad at math, and have been out of school for some time. My first practice test I scored in the 13th percentile, and after studying for 8 weeks roughly 2 hours a day, I received a 28( 20th percentile) on quant for the real test. I was in the 70th percentile on my verbal section of the test with zero studying, so that is not a problem at all for me. I just need to bring my quant score up a bit, as I believe the rest of my application is plenty strong for admittance to the program.

To study I bought the Official Gmat Review 13th edition, which I used to gain general understanding and strategy for the test. I also bought the Manhattan Foundations of Gmat math review and worked through the entire book and all the practice problems. With about two weeks off after the test, I am starting to study again and want to take it in about 6 weeks. I am now planning on taking the Manhattan CAT tests as my next practice tests.

Any insight on how to get my quant score from the 20th to at least the 25th percentile, would be greatly appreciated. Also if 6 weeks will be enough time with a full work schedule, and how hard of a goal this should be.

Thanks everyone!
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by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Fri Mar 15, 2013 7:08 am
To improving your quant score, I think you should compartmentalize your learning and take the time to master each topic (e.g., percents, ratios, exponents, statistics, etc.).

This means that, for each topic, you should:
1) Learn the underlying concepts (rules, attributes, notation, etc.)
2) Learn GMAT-specific strategies related to that topic
3) Practice dozens of questions all related to that one topic.
4) Don't stop working on that topic until you have mastered it
Then, and only then, move on to the next topic.

I also suggest that you spend a lot of time reviewing the responses from the Experts on this site. They model the steps you should be taking when tackling math problems.

In addition to learning the core concepts and GMAT-specific strategies, be sure to work on your endurance and test-taking skills (e.g., time management) by taking several practice tests.

If you're interested, we have a free GMAT time management video at https://www.gmatprepnow.com/module/gener ... es?id=1244

Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
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