It is always better to use the latest OG to start with and work through older versions if you need more practice. The guide does change year by year though not a whole lot. But 2018 is 4 years old.
In addition, we have some general test prep advice.
REFRAME
Instead of thinking about how difficult the exams would be, I would suggest trying to see them as a game.
All games have rules. All I had to do was learn the rules and practice. This is what those prep guides do. They educate you on how the game works. They also give you the opportunity to practice. You would not show up to a big game without practicing - a lot. The same is true for the test. By separating what the test meant (access to my dream career) to what it was (a game), I was able to calm my anxiety enough to concentrate in my preparation and studies for the exam.
SMALL GOALS
The test feels like it is this huge monumental event. Having reframed it as a game, I now had to create a training plan. I used the GMAT/CAT test-prep books. I looked at the outline and divided them into pieces: Learning the rules, getting skills, practicing skills. Each day, I would review the rules (the logic behind the different types of questions). Then I would learn a new skill (techniques on how to approach those questions). Finally, I would practice. Each day, I leveled-up on my skills. Each day I would practice my new skill and many of the previous ones. Breaking it up into pieces also helped with the anxiety. It made it fun, too. I gave myself fun stickers and other treats for every new skill I gained.
DRILLS
When I finally scheduled my tests, I practiced taking the exams in as similar conditions as I would face on the actual day. I did about ten different practice test runs for the GMAT and the CAT. Then, I would analyze my performance. Were there any particular types of questions I was missing? Did I consistently miss a particular point? Did I do something really well?After each test, and each analysis, I would practice some more to make the next drill even better.
Call us at 888-215-6269 or live chat with us on our website if you need any GMAT Prep help! Thanks for your interest!
