Successfully Survive the GMAT
The GMAT, which is the Graduate Management Admission Test, is a standardized test that graduate business administration programs use in order to separate the wheat from the chaff during the admission process. If you want to earn an MBA, for example, you’ll likely need to take the GMAT as a prerequisite to entering the MBA program. To get into a Top 10 graduate school, you’ll likely need to achieve a score of 700 or more. How can you work toward guaranteeing your results so you get into the program you want?
Know the Structure of the GMAT
Knowing what to expect from the GMAT is the first step toward taking a successful test. The GMAT is broken down into three distinct testing sections to measure your:
• quantitative abilities,
• verbal abilities, and
• analytical writing and assessment skills.
For the quantitative section, you will need to be well versed in your mathematics skills. Algebra, geometry, and other forms of arithmetic are stressed in this section over the course of 37 questions to measure problem solving abilities. In the verbal section, your ability to comprehend what you’re reading and correct faulty grammar will be measured, as well as the ability to find specific parts of a passage.
The longest session is the analytical writing and assessment section. You will be required to write an essay and evaluate information that comes in different formats.
How Much Time Do You Need To Study?
For the average person, the best amount of time studying for the GMAT is about 80 hours. Taking more time than that to study can actually end up dropping your score because you start to second guess yourself and your answers. This means taking a couple weeks before your scheduled test to make a good effort in studying for it instead of cramming everything in at the last second.
The first thing to do in your studying process is to gauge where you actually are from a knowledge standpoint. A good way to find out how you measure up is to take a a full length practice test in the first or second day of your studying. This will help you know which subject areas you may need to add a special focus on during the next few days of studying.
Remember To Take the Testing Day Off
Maybe the most important thing that you can do is to take the entire day off of work and/or school on the day that you’re taking the GMAT. If you have to worry about going here, there, and everywhere and still make the test on time, you’ll end up causing yourself a level of stress that can, in turn, reduce your overall score. Create as stress-free of an environment as possible and don’t forget to celebrate after you take your test! By taking these steps, you’ll be able to maximize your GMAT score and get into the business administration program you want.
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