First practice test - 570. Where do I stand?

[bhatius]

Hey,

I'm planning to give my GMAT in late July or early August. I just gave my first practice test (GMAT Prep -1) today and got a 570. I've not really started studying intensely though I have spent some time over the past month or so trying to get familiar with the concepts and type of questions. I don't want to sound my personal alarm bells just yet, so I want to know where I stand given my target is a 720+? Is three months good enough to get me there? I'm planning to start classes for preparation by mid-May.

Thanks,

Nikhil

[Brent@GMATPrepNow]

In this forum, there are plenty of posts by students who have managed 150+ increases in 3 months, so your goal (while ambitious) is attainable.

Be sure to take regular practice tests to help gauge your progress/trajectory.

One last word of advice: I typically suggest that students achieve their target score on at least 2 practices tests before they take the official test.

Cheers,
Brent

[transfer9858]

My first Diagnostic test was a manhattan gmat cat. I got a 530. 3 months of practice later I was scoring 700-740s on manhattan cats. I got nervous, choked and didn't do well on the actual one so I am retaking. Point is- with enough practice 700's is doable.

[edufortune]

We agree with the above answers.
Also, wanted to add that- your first test is not an indication of your caliber- so relax..
a) Analyze your test- understand what was your approach, where you went and where you dint. Also, understand how could you have done it better if retaking it tomorrow or immediately
b) After analyzing the test, make a realistic target v/s time based plan
c) Check your weekly, bi-weekly progress and then you will start seeing results.

Regards,
Edufortune
https://www.facebook.com/Edufortune2020
Twitter: @Edufortune.

[bhatius]

Thanks! I was quite bummed out with the 570. But after 2 days I actually reviewed the test and realised I made stupid mistakes. Not reading the question properly cost me at least 15 questions!
I think I'll just keep at it and work on the weaknesses while improving on stuff I (think I) know. Starting Monday, I will be studying about 6 days a week so how often should I take a practice test?