GMAT Strategy

Thank you! I did end up using the older version that's more suitable for me.

Will post results soon. (Though I feel I did very poorly on the Quant now, going to take the verbal part - hoping for the best.)

Just finished the second CAT now.

GMATPrep 1: 620 (Q42, V32)

Overall, found this test to be quite challenging, I don't know why. I guessed on so many questions on the Quant, and right from the beginning I was stumped on many questions, unsure of how to even start. Maybe my concentration levels were poor today, even though I tried my best.

I also suffered a major shock last week with the death of a family member, and I couldn't revise anything properly since the last test. I'm assuming that's the reason for this dismal score.

I was atleast expecting a similar score, if not higher, than the previous MGMAT cat but this is way too low after a 650 on the first test.

Anyone got any advice for me? I'd like to add that I need to work harder on CR and RC on the Verbal, and am still chugging with the Powerscore bible.

Hello hifunda,

Here is my review :
Both ur Quant and Verbal have dropped by 3 and 2 points respectively.

Firstly, You can improve significantly a lot in Quant scores. Hands down - Follow MGMAT strategy guides and they will do you good.

Secondly, On verbal side - you need to pick up pace and improve a lot. As for CR - Powerscore is the best book out there. For RC, i would personally suggest MGMAT strategy guide - because of they way they attack a passage.

Maybe my concentration levels were poor today, even though I tried my best.

If you feel that you are disturbed or not in the mood, do not take the test.
This holds true for Real GMAT too. A positive attitude and mood can take the test a long way compared to a gloomy one.

As far as i see - you need to improve on Math and Verbal simultaneous. Try mixing up your preperation schedule a little.

HTH!
Penguinfoot.

A few quick (albeit random) points:

1) Do not compare GMATPrep with MGMAT tests. There are many differences and the corelation is not very strong. See this thread here: https://www.beatthegmat.com/huge-variati ... 10990.html

2) Try to take GMATPrep alteast 4-6 times before you take the real test. These tests are an awesome source for great GMAT questions. Plus the algorithm is the closest to the "real deal".

3) No one can give you suggestions on improvement by looking at the raw scores. Neither the previous poster nor I. It is you who has to sit down and analyze where you think you are going wrong

Arun

Thanks Arun for replying. I agree about both points - variations in scores and GMATPrep being superior to other CATs.

I also understand that I will have to analyze my tests and figure out ways to improve. I was in no way asking people to tell me what I should do next. Posting CAT scores along with background information about the resources and study plan used so far, definitely enables people to give tips. Considering that this is a forum full of people who have been in my shoes, it makes sense to ask for help if I am not sure of something.

Nevertheless, thank you for your inputs. I will make sure to leverage GMATPrep CATs as much as possible.

If you are not taking the GMATPrep tests without the IR and essay, then you might get inflated scores. The GMAT is designed that way to reduce your score by putting you through more and more work before you go to maths section of the test. If you want an accurate measurement of your progress or you want sound practice, then take every portion of the test, not just the quant and verbal.

You can read this amazing article from the MGMAT instructor Stacey Koprince about the appropriate way of taking CATs prior to taking the real test.

Hope this helps.