BREAKING: Target Test Prep releases Brand New 2026 On Demand GMAT prep course

Redeem

Retaking GMAT. Need 70 point rise. Pls help !

This topic has expert replies
Post new topic Post Reply
Previous Topic Next Topic
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

Retaking GMAT. Need 70 point rise. Pls help !

by Need help with 50 points! » Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:33 am
Hi,

I took the GMAT on 12th Dec 2014 and scored a terrible 480 (Q38/V19).Studied for one month before the test. Study material used - THE OG for GMAT Review 2015, The OG GMAT Quant Review 2015 and The OG GMAT Verbal Review 2015 only. I m retaking the GMAT on 23rd March 2015. I only need 550 to target my list of b-schools. Till now I have finished the Kaplan Verbal workbook and partly Kaplan Premier.

What strategy should I follow to reach 550?

Pls help.
Top
Source: — GMAT Strategy |

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
Elite Legendary Member
Posts: 10392
Joined: Sun Jun 23, 2013 6:38 pm
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Thanked: 2867 times
Followed by:511 members
GMAT Score:800

by [email protected] » Sat Feb 21, 2015 10:48 am
Hi Need help,

You're in something of an interesting situation in that you don't need to improve much to pick up the missing points that you're looking for. Focusing on (and really improving) in ANY of the major areas in the Quant or Verbal sections could conceivably be enough to help you hit your goal. Before we talk about that though, I'd like to know a bit more about your studies and Official GMAT:

1) Did you take any practice CATs during your studies? If so, then how did you score?
2) On Test Day, did you have to rush at the end (and guess on a bunch of questions) to finish any of the sections? Did you leave any questions unanswered? Did you finish any sections early?
3) You've set your deadline for March 23rd; when are you planning to apply to Business School?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
Contact Rich at [email protected]
Image
Top

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
GMAT Instructor
Posts: 16207
Joined: Mon Dec 08, 2008 6:26 pm
Location: Vancouver, BC
Thanked: 5254 times
Followed by:1268 members
GMAT Score:770

by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Sat Feb 21, 2015 6:27 pm
I suggest a systematic (even methodical) approach, in which you take the time to master each topic/concept (e.g., percents, ratios, assumption questions in critical reasoning, comparison questions in sentence correction, etc).

So, for each topic/concept, 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.

To help you focus on one topic at a time, you can use BTG's tagging feature. For example, here are all of the questions tagged as statistics questions: https://www.beatthegmat.com/forums/tags/ ... statistics
See the left side of that linked page for more tag options.

While completing questions from the Official Guide (OG), you should you use an Error Log (aka Improvement Chart). You can find a free downloadable Improvement Chart here: https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/gmat-error-log. This will help you identify and strengthen your weak areas.

You should also spend a lot of time reviewing the responses from the Experts on this site. They model the steps one should take 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

Finally, you might consider signing up for Beat The GMAT's free 60-Day Study Guide (https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/gmat-guide).
Each day, you'll receive an email with a series of learning activities that guide you, step-by-step, from Day 1 to test day. This will ensure that you will cover everything that the GMAT tests.

Here's an outline of all 60 emails: https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/gmat-guide-outline

Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
Image
Top
User avatar
Master | Next Rank: 500 Posts
Posts: 103
Joined: Mon Jun 23, 2014 11:31 pm
Thanked: 25 times
Followed by:12 members
GMAT Score:770

by BestGMATEliza » Sun Feb 22, 2015 10:36 pm
The other posts made really good points. Its really important to learn the concepts and I think either a course or comprehensive strategy guide set will be good resources for that. In order to improve quickly, you should be studying to specifically target your weaknesses. In order to do this, go through your last few CATs and look at the problems that you are getting the easiest ones wrong. Then review those topics.
Eliza Chute
Best GMAT Prep Courses
GMAT course comparison and reviews
Your one stop for all your GMAT studying needs!
Top
User avatar
Master | Next Rank: 500 Posts
Posts: 321
Joined: Mon Feb 17, 2014 9:04 pm
Location: B 7/2, Okhla Phase-II, New Delhi - 110020
Thanked: 41 times
Followed by:13 members

by manyaabroadtpr » Mon Feb 23, 2015 11:13 pm
Hi,

Take as many practice tests as possible. Spend as much time in analyzing your performance in the test. Typically if you spend 2 hours in a mock test, spend 4-5 hours in analyzing your performance and take a note on how to attempt each question better, faster and smarter. Make sure you apply them in your next practice test.

Start reading articles, science journals , business tabloids and read them online and figure out for yourself if you can understand the language and the main idea present in the passage. This would improve your vocabulary on the GMAT.

Let us know if you would have any questions for gmat preparation and we would be happy to guide. Wish you the best.
Top
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

by Need help with 50 points! » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:02 am
[email protected] wrote:Hi Need help,

You're in something of an interesting situation in that you don't need to improve much to pick up the missing points that you're looking for. Focusing on (and really improving) in ANY of the major areas in the Quant or Verbal sections could conceivably be enough to help you hit your goal. Before we talk about that though, I'd like to know a bit more about your studies and Official GMAT:

1) Did you take any practice CATs during your studies? If so, then how did you score?
2) On Test Day, did you have to rush at the end (and guess on a bunch of questions) to finish any of the sections? Did you leave any questions unanswered? Did you finish any sections early?
3) You've set your deadline for March 23rd; when are you planning to apply to Business School?

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

Thanks for your response.

Here are the ans to your questions. Hope this will help you to help me even more :)
1) I took 4 CATs. One of Manhattan free test and the remaining three of a coaching institute. In all 4 I scored 530 (Q37, V27).
2) Yes, I did rush. After the first RC passage , which was on some photography topic I lost concentration and couldn't understand what I was reading on the screen. I finished the both the sections, but the later half of the questions on both sections were guesses.
3) I am targeting admissions this fall. The school I am applying to has asked me to retake the GMAT and score 550 for an addmission offer. Have submitted all my other docs.
Top
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

by Need help with 50 points! » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:08 am
Brent@GMATPrepNow wrote:I suggest a systematic (even methodical) approach, in which you take the time to master each topic/concept (e.g., percents, ratios, assumption questions in critical reasoning, comparison questions in sentence correction, etc).

So, for each topic/concept, 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.

To help you focus on one topic at a time, you can use BTG's tagging feature. For example, here are all of the questions tagged as statistics questions: https://www.beatthegmat.com/forums/tags/ ... statistics
See the left side of that linked page for more tag options.

While completing questions from the Official Guide (OG), you should you use an Error Log (aka Improvement Chart). You can find a free downloadable Improvement Chart here: https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/gmat-error-log. This will help you identify and strengthen your weak areas.

You should also spend a lot of time reviewing the responses from the Experts on this site. They model the steps one should take 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

Finally, you might consider signing up for Beat The GMAT's free 60-Day Study Guide (https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/gmat-guide).
Each day, you'll receive an email with a series of learning activities that guide you, step-by-step, from Day 1 to test day. This will ensure that you will cover everything that the GMAT tests.

Here's an outline of all 60 emails: https://www.beatthegmat.com/mba/gmat-guide-outline

Cheers,
Brent
Hello Brent,

Thanks for the advise. But do you think I have enough time for such a comprehensive plan? I think for this I'll need > 3 months as I am working as well. I guess I should have followed this plan during my preparation for the first time.

Thanks anyways ! :)
Top
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

by Need help with 50 points! » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:12 am
BestGMATEliza wrote:The other posts made really good points. Its really important to learn the concepts and I think either a course or comprehensive strategy guide set will be good resources for that. In order to improve quickly, you should be studying to specifically target your weaknesses. In order to do this, go through your last few CATs and look at the problems that you are getting the easiest ones wrong. Then review those topics.
Hi Eliza,

Thanks for your suggestion. I will definitely implement your suggestions during my prep. :)
Top

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
GMAT Instructor
Posts: 16207
Joined: Mon Dec 08, 2008 6:26 pm
Location: Vancouver, BC
Thanked: 5254 times
Followed by:1268 members
GMAT Score:770

by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:12 am
Need help with 50 points! wrote: Hello Brent,

Thanks for the advise. But do you think I have enough time for such a comprehensive plan? I think for this I'll need > 3 months as I am working as well. I guess I should have followed this plan during my preparation for the first time.

Thanks anyways ! :)
If you have limited time, then I suggest that you first focus on concepts that have the greatest return on investment (ROI). These are concepts that are tested frequently and require the least amount of time to learn. In my opinion, these concepts are:
- Sentence Correction
- Data Sufficiency strategies
- Percent
- Integer Properties
- Powers/roots
- Algebra
- Geometry

I say all of this because I often see students spending a lot of time agonizing over concepts like Probability and Counting, when these concepts are not tested nearly as much as concepts like integer properties and geometry.

CR and RC questions probably have the lowest ROI. I'm not saying that you shouldn't prepare for them; I'm just saying that improvements take a long time, especially for non-native English speakers. For CR, be sure you understand the various question types.

Finally, be sure to take several practice tests in order to perfect your time management skills and build your endurance.

Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
Image
Top
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

by Need help with 50 points! » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:17 am
Brent@GMATPrepNow wrote:
Need help with 50 points! wrote: Hello Brent,

Thanks for the advise. But do you think I have enough time for such a comprehensive plan? I think for this I'll need > 3 months as I am working as well. I guess I should have followed this plan during my preparation for the first time.

Thanks anyways ! :)
If you have limited time, then I suggest that you first focus on concepts that have the greatest return on investment (ROI). These are concepts that are tested frequently and require the least amount of time to learn. In my opinion, these concepts are:
- Sentence Correction
- Data Sufficiency strategies
- Percent
- Integer Properties
- Powers/roots
- Algebra
- Geometry

I say all of this because I often see students spending a lot of time agonizing over concepts like Probability and Counting, when these concepts are not tested nearly as much as concepts like integer properties and geometry.

CR and RC questions probably have the lowest ROI. I'm not saying that you shouldn't prepare for them; I'm just saying that improvements take a long time, especially for non-native English speakers. For CR, be sure you understand the various question types.

Finally, be sure to take several practice tests in order to perfect your time management skills and build your endurance.

Cheers,
Brent
Hi Brent,

I am sure I can work through this list. very true, no wonder CR and RC make me slow and they reduce my momentum during the test. This was very helpful. Thanks a ton ! :)

Could you suggest me some tests?
Top
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

by Need help with 50 points! » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:20 am
manyaabroadtpr wrote:Hi,

Take as many practice tests as possible. Spend as much time in analyzing your performance in the test. Typically if you spend 2 hours in a mock test, spend 4-5 hours in analyzing your performance and take a note on how to attempt each question better, faster and smarter. Make sure you apply them in your next practice test.

Start reading articles, science journals , business tabloids and read them online and figure out for yourself if you can understand the language and the main idea present in the passage. This would improve your vocabulary on the GMAT.

Let us know if you would have any questions for gmat preparation and we would be happy to guide. Wish you the best.
Hi,

Thanks for your advise. :)

I sure will work on it.
Top

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
GMAT Instructor
Posts: 16207
Joined: Mon Dec 08, 2008 6:26 pm
Location: Vancouver, BC
Thanked: 5254 times
Followed by:1268 members
GMAT Score:770

by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Tue Feb 24, 2015 10:22 am
Need help with 50 points! wrote:
Hi Brent,

I am sure I can work through this list. very true, no wonder CR and RC make me slow and they reduce my momentum during the test. This was very helpful. Thanks a ton ! :)

Could you suggest me some tests?
If you're looking for full-length practice tests, most of the companies on this site offer a free test.
If you don't mind spending some $, then you might consider the GMATPrep Exam Pack 1 (with official questions and algorithm): https://www.mba.com/global/store/store-c ... ack-1.aspx

Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
Image
Top

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
Elite Legendary Member
Posts: 10392
Joined: Sun Jun 23, 2013 6:38 pm
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Thanked: 2867 times
Followed by:511 members
GMAT Score:800

by [email protected] » Tue Feb 24, 2015 6:24 pm
Hi Need help,

Based on your Official Score and your practice scores, something about the tests you were given by the coaching institute seem problematic (those Verbal Scores don't seem to match up with the Official GMAT Score). As such, you should probably use a different set of practice CATs this time. Thankfully, there are plenty of respectable CATs to choose from.

With your Official Scaled Scores, you have a much greater opportunity to pick up those missing points in the Verbal section, but you're clearly more comfortable in the Quant section. The issue is the limited amount of time that you have left. While you could probably pick up all of the missing points in either the Quant section or the Verbal section, I can't recommend that you take an "all or nothing" approach. Thus, you should probably focus on the BIG categories right now: DS in Quant, SC and RC in Verbal.

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
Contact Rich at [email protected]
Image
Top
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Feb 21, 2015 8:10 am

by Need help with 50 points! » Fri Feb 27, 2015 12:17 am
[email protected] wrote:Hi Need help,

Based on your Official Score and your practice scores, something about the tests you were given by the coaching institute seem problematic (those Verbal Scores don't seem to match up with the Official GMAT Score). As such, you should probably use a different set of practice CATs this time. Thankfully, there are plenty of respectable CATs to choose from.

With your Official Scaled Scores, you have a much greater opportunity to pick up those missing points in the Verbal section, but you're clearly more comfortable in the Quant section. The issue is the limited amount of time that you have left. While you could probably pick up all of the missing points in either the Quant section or the Verbal section, I can't recommend that you take an "all or nothing" approach. Thus, you should probably focus on the BIG categories right now: DS in Quant, SC and RC in Verbal.

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

Thanks for recommendations.

I had given Manhattan free test. In which I scored the above points. The tests by my coaching institute only gave me total raw scores, it did not give section wise scaled scores. Which tests should I take this time?
Top
User avatar
Legendary Member
Posts: 2663
Joined: Wed Jan 14, 2015 8:25 am
Location: Boston, MA
Thanked: 1153 times
Followed by:128 members
GMAT Score:770

by DavidG@VeritasPrep » Fri Feb 27, 2015 3:03 am
As Brent mentioned in an earlier post, any of the free tests on the beatthegmat homepage will provide good practice. Additionally, you'll want to make absolutely certain that you take the GMATPrep tests provided from mba.com: https://www.mba.com/us/the-gmat-exam/pre ... tware.aspx
Veritas Prep | GMAT Instructor

Veritas Prep Reviews
Save $100 off any live Veritas Prep GMAT Course
Top
Post new topic Post Reply