First Test 530: Weird split.

[MattDC]

I took my first GMAT practice exam through Veritas Prep (having not studied):

Math: 22 (11% percentile).
Verbal: 43 (92% percentile).
Overall: 530 (40% percentile).

Here is my question: Is my goal is a 700 and T-25 admin realistic?
Is the Math part something I can learn and bring up to a 80%?

I found my poor grade shocking considering I had a 33 math ACT and 680 math SAT.

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Hi MattDC,

For most Test Takers, the first practice CAT can be surprising. One of the biggest factors (that you probably were not ready for) is Data Sufficiency. Many of the math subjects that you saw and tactics that you used on the ACT/SAT will appear on the GMAT as well, so I'd suspect that you'd have a good chance to improve your Quant performance. Your strong performance in the Verbal is a huge "plus"; most Test Takers can't score above a V40.

To score 700+, you'll need to put in some significant study time (most Test Takers need 3 months or more to hit their peak scores).

Did you take the ENTIRE CAT, including the Essay and IR section? Part of a successful study plan is to take your practice CATs in a realistic fashion, so that you're properly trained to face the rigors of the actual GMAT.

When are you planning to take your Official GMAT?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

[MattDC]

Rich,
I was thinking of taking the exam in early-mid September. DS was pretty brutal, but it seems something that can be learned and "gamed." I'm hoping it was 6 years of not having done math....

I did not take the entire CAT. After a full day of work and a big day at the gym, I was pretty tired by the time I sat down. Working on stamina is a definite goal this summer.

Any tips on boosting the Quant section?

Thanks,

Matt

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HI MattDC,

Since you're just starting your studies, the immediate focus should be on learning the content and tactics. Don't worry too much about endurance or pacing in the early going. I'd also suggest that you don't take another practice CAT for another 2-3 weeks. At a certain point, you'll want to take 1 CAT/week, but no more than that.

You mentioned something interesting: you took the CAT after a full day of work and a visit to the gym. You must have been "worn out" when you started that Test. Plan to take your practice CATs at the same time as your Official GMAT (which will likely be earlier in the day).

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

[MattDC]

Thank you for such great tips!

I will try to take the CAT in mornings when I don't work. I like your suggestion about waiting 2-3 weeks. I felt on the CAT I understood what was being asked, but forgot the tools and formulas to get the answer.

Thank You!