4 Helpful Tips to Prepare for the GMAT Exam

Do you see yourself back in graduate school? Are you considering a business degree?

If the answer to both questions is yes, then you might have thought about what it would take to pass the GMAT exam to get into the business school that you’ve dreamed of.

Don’t fret, if your palms are already getting a little sweaty with the anxiety of taking the test, we’re here to transform your study routine and demystify the preparation process for taking the GMAT exam.

With our invaluable tips, you will prepare for the GMAT exam like a pro, ultimately paving the way for success and opening new academic opportunities.

What is the GMAT Exam?

Before we delve into preparing for the exam, what exactly is the GMAT?

Short for the Graduate Management Admission Test, the GMAT is a standardized test to assess the skills necessary for success in graduate business and management programs, such as MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs.

The test has different sections that look at your abilities in critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical writing, data analysis, and verbal reasoning.

Therefore, GMAT scores can be an important factor considered by business schools during the admission process.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for The GMAT?

The time required to prepare for the GMAT varies from person to person and depends on individual factors such as prior knowledge, study habits, and target scores.

On average, the top scorers on the GMAT will spend about 100-120+ hours or 2-3 months of studying time but some individuals may need more time, especially if they are working full-time or have other commitments.

Tailoring your study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses will allow for consistent, focused preparation and ease your stress before the exam.

Now let’s dive into some helpful tips to prepare for the GMAT.

Prepare for the GMAT Exam

1. Understand the Format

While you might want to jump into the abyss of GMAT preparation right away, take a step back and acquaint yourself with the format of the exam.

The GMAT consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative, and Verbal.

Each section poses its unique challenges, so understanding the structure and content will allow you to tailor your study plan accordingly.

Grab a cup of coffee, cozy up with the official GMAT guide, and get a feel for the pacing required in each section.

2. Create a Study Plan

Developing a well-structured study plan is key to success on the GMAT. Set a target score – be realistic, but don’t sell yourself short.

Break down your study sessions into bite-sized chunks. Maybe dedicate Mondays to conquering data analysis, Wednesdays to analytical writing, and Fridays to tricky integrated reasoning.

Balance your study time among the various sections, focusing on your weaker areas while reinforcing your strengths. Consistency is crucial, so schedule regular study sessions to maintain momentum.

3. Utilize GMAT Prep Resources

The internet is your oyster so take advantage of the plethora of GMAT preparation resources available.

Explore online courses, YouTube tutorials, and forums where fellow warriors spill their GMAT secrets and insights from their experiences.

These online platforms provide interactive study materials and video lessons that can enhance your understanding of key concepts.

For example, the GMAT Club offers a community where you can ask questions, participate in discussions, and access additional resources contributed by fellow test-takers.

4. Practice Time Management

Time management is your secret weapon and is crucial for success on the GMAT.

Develop a strategy for each section, including the amount of time you will allocate to each question.

Keep in mind that the GMAT is a timed test, and pacing yourself is essential.

Practice, practice, practice! Take mock exams, time yourself, and figure out where you tend to get stuck.

If a question feels like a black hole, don’t linger on it – skip it and come back if time allows.

Prioritize accuracy, but also recognize when to move on to ensure you can attempt all questions within the allotted time.

Prep for the GMAT

So, there you have it—four tips to turn your GMAT prep from a stress-inducing nightmare into a laid-back adventure.

The GMAT is a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to show off your skills and strut into that test center like you own the place.

With dedication, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the GMAT and unlocking new opportunities in your academic and professional journey.

Over to You

What tips are you planning to use for your GMAT Exam?

Head over to our social @netwerkmovement and let us know how your study prep has been going.

If you know a friend who is also studying for the GMAT, don’t forget to share this with them to help ease their stress during exam time!