GMAT Preparation Strategies

<p>The GMAT test is a Computer-Adaptive Test (CAT), which means that the testing software gives a harder question when an examinee answers a question correctly or an easier question when a wrong answer is submitted. Questions are weighted by difficulty, meaning that more points are scored for getting a harder question right and vice versa.  

Computer tests can be very different experiences from the usual paper-based tests with which most people are familiar. Learning how to approach the computer-adaptive format and planning strategically for it will be to your advantage if you are planning on taking the GMAT.</p>

<p>The GMAT is about more than a selection of multiple-choice questions. Aside from testing numeric and verbal proficiency, the GMAT is also a test of time-management skills, endurance and confidence. This is in addition to the ability to prioritize, follow instructions correctly and of course perform under pressure.</p>

<p>The<a href="https://www.gmac.com/" target="_blank"> Graduate Management Admission Council</a> (GMAC), which is the owner and administrator of the GMAT, held a Test Preparation Summit in New York in October 2007. GMAC updated Kaplan Test Preparation and Admissions on the latest research and development on the exam, as well as reviewing common myths about the GMAT. There were some interesting points of discussion at the event, which will be of interest to all potential takers of the test.
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<p>It is often thought that because of the computer-adaptive format, the first questions in each section of the test are crucial to your final score. GMAC reports that while the first 10 questions on the exam are important to the computer's initial estimate of your performance level, every question on the test is important. The algorithm self-corrects to a student's "real ability level" as the test progresses, and it is important to pace yourself throughout the exam so you don't run out of time at the end. Remember, your final score is based on all the questions you answered correctly, as well as their difficulty level.</p>

<p>GMAC emphasized the severe penalty for not finishing the exam in time. It is estimated to impact your score even more than getting a few questions wrong, so make timing a fundamental part of your GMAT preparation plan. By the time you get to the day of your test, you should aim to have taken enough full-length practice exams in order to be confident of your pacing. However in the worst case scenario, be sure to enter an answer for EVERY question in the exam to avoid any timing penalties. The difficulty of the GMAT comes from analytical skills, not just content.</p><p>While the GMAT tests a variety of maths proficiencies, the difficulty of the questions does not necessarily come from extremely challenging content. According to GMAC, it comes more from the logical and analytical thinking needed to answer GMAT-style questions. The maths for example, is actually high-school level maths, with no calculus or trigonometry. Make sure your GMAT preparation focuses on content as well as critical thinking so that you can answer questions both quickly and accurately.</p>

<p>Do not underestimate the amount of preparation time required to get that high GMAT score.  GMAC's research shows a strong correlation between the hours candidates spent on preparation, and their subsequent score (the table below shows the results). NB: The number of hours of study includes time spent both in and out of classes, for those students who took a GMAT preparation course.</p><p>700+</p><p>114</p><p>600-690</p><p>104</p><p>550-590</p><p>100</p><p>&lt; 500</p><p>8</p>