How to Create an Effective GMAT Study Plan and Prepare for the Exam
For future business leaders interested in pursuing an MBA, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is key to improving their chances of acceptance. The GMAT is a business school entrance exam that lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes and assesses critical thinking, communication skills, mathematical abilities, and integrated reasoning.
While some schools don’t require a GMAT score for admissions, MBA programs can take the candidate’s score into account when making the final admittance decision. Regardless of the school’s GMAT requirement, a strong test score can boost your application and make you stand out among MBA applicants, as well as increase your scholarship eligibility. Here’s how to prepare for the GMAT so you can study effectively and enhance your MBA application.
Develop a Comprehensive GMAT Study Plan
Whether you’re hoping to take the exam in the next few weeks or the next couple of years, a comprehensive GMAT study plan is essential to start preparing.
Assess your current knowledge
The first step in studying for the GMAT is evaluating your current knowledge and skills to identify areas that need improvement. Use free resources and practice exams to assess what you already know, set a realistic target score based on your goals and the requirements of your desired programs.
Create a study timeline
Next, prepare a study timeline that allows for consistent practice and review. Start by allocating appropriate time for each section of the exam (Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative, and Data Insights) depending on your strengths and areas for improvement. Dedicate more time to the sections that you find more challenging.
Repetition, chunking, and mind maps are great ways to divide information into manageable pieces and solidify it in your memory. Keep in mind that intense studying or “cramming” can lead to unhealthy habits and less content retention, so schedule regular breaks and review sessions to avoid burnout.
Use Quality GMAT Preparation Materials
To ensure maximum GMAT preparation results, invest in reputable prep books and online resources from trusted providers. Explore official GMAT practice tests and questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format, and consider enrolling in an online or in-person prep course for structured learning.
Not all preparation materials cost money to access. Local library programs often provide free opportunities for studying and you can leverage free online resources, such as forums and blogs, for additional tips and strategies.
Avoid any surprises on exam day by staying updated on any changes to the GMAT exam format and content. While significant changes don’t often occur, it’s best to ensure accurate preparation before you begin.
3 Effective Strategies for GMAT Preparation
- Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience.
Take advantage of the GMAT’s two free practice exams before the actual test so you can create a clear plan for what to study. Develop a system for reviewing and reinforcing concepts you find challenging. - Practice time management techniques to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time.
Each section of the GMAT is timed at 45 minutes long, so time management is a key part of the testing process. - Stay motivated and focused by setting achievable milestones and rewarding yourself for progress.
A goal isn’t functional if it’s not achievable. Break your study goals into realistic portions so you can track your progress and stay motivated.
Conclusion
Having a proper GMAT study plan can go a long way to improve your acceptance outcomes and scholarship opportunities. When you’re assembling a strategy for your GMAT preparation, start by making a comprehensive study plan that takes into account your strengths, areas for improvement, and goals. Quality prep materials will add extra support to your study sessions, so invest in reputable prep guides and take advantage of free resources at your local library and online.
More than anything, it’s vital to remain consistent and motivated throughout the preparation journey. Every study session and practice exam will allow you to approach the GMAT confidently and achieve a desirable score.
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