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Strategy for the last few weeks

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Strategy for the last few weeks

by Avinash_Tyagi » Fri Oct 28, 2011 3:24 pm
Hey guys, I'm down to the last 25 days of my review, and my recent practice tests from the past three weeks have been fluctuating, the lowest was a 650 and the highest was a 740 (Knewton 730 and 650 and MGMAT 690, 740).

First off, is this sort of fluctuation normal? It has me kind of concerned

Secondly, since I'm aiming for my score to at least be 720 (if not higher), I still have some work to do before I can be assured of a score in that range.

I'm thinking that over the next few weeks I'll review the content that has been giving me trouble, then work on the OG and the OG review supplements (while also taking the last two MGMAT and last two Knewton practice tests). I also plan on attending various Knewton live workshops over the coming weeks.

And then with the last week I plan on doing the GMATPrep tests and any other last minute review and practice, and then rest the day before I take the actual test.

I happily welcome any tips, or advice that people can give, especially on improving my timing, which is my biggest Achilles heel.
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by FutureWorks » Fri Oct 28, 2011 8:12 pm
Hi Avinash,

Namaste :)

What would be interesting to know is the progress in your scores during the last 25 days. If your score has witnessed an upswing then the trend is normal. If your score is rising as you're getting closer to the test days then it is a definite plus!

We think that the single biggest thing that you've to ensure is stay focussed and confident. You've already got a score above 720+ and there is no reason why you cannot achieve in that range.

Keep taking practice tests and trust yourself! The plan that you've mentioned is fine, it will surely pay off.

Let us know if you need specific help. Would be glad to assist!
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by Avinash_Tyagi » Fri Oct 28, 2011 9:47 pm
Actually all those tests have been in the last 25 days, and those scores were in order, so a 730, 650, 690 and 740 in that order.

Thanks for your advice, I'm pretty good at staying focused, I've been studying since summer now, and I've been able to stay on top of things til now, and now that the finish line is in sight, I'm even more motivated, I actually work best under pressure and with a looming deadline. Thanks
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by IJR » Sat Oct 29, 2011 7:40 am
I would only take 1-2 more practice tests. If you take more than that, you will probably get too worried about your scores and not focus on actually improving. Therefore, I would be cautious in taking many more practice tests. Definitely take at least one GMAT Prep test though, as those tests are the most like the actual GMAT.
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by Avinash_Tyagi » Sat Oct 29, 2011 8:43 am
IJR wrote:I would only take 1-2 more practice tests. If you take more than that, you will probably get too worried about your scores and not focus on actually improving. Therefore, I would be cautious in taking many more practice tests. Definitely take at least one GMAT Prep test though, as those tests are the most like the actual GMAT.
Why would the tests interfere with my improvement? Wouldn't they would tell me which areas I need to work on?
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by Jim@Grockit » Tue Nov 01, 2011 5:06 pm
Fluctuation is normal, especially between prep sources. I don't think additional tests are a bad idea as long as 1) you aren't stressed out, and 2) you take the time to review them.

While it's nice to get an idea of how you're doing, it's a mistake to invest much emotion in practice test scores. I've regularly seen 50 point differences between prep tests and real GMATs (though 30 is more common), so . . . keep practicing, don't make yourself crazy.
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