10 Steps to Acing the GMAT or GRE
1. Understand the differences between the GMAT and the GRE. Although there are a lot of similarities, there are also important differences between the GMAT and the GRE. With more schools now accepting either, it’s important to understand those differences early and focus on the test that’s right for the schools you’re applying to and for your own strengths and weaknesses.
2. Understand CATs (Computer Adaptive Tests). Both the GMAT and the GRE adapt in some way to how well you perform in the early sections of the tests. However, the GMAT does so after each question, while the GRE does so after each section. Get use to how this feels and what it means for you on test day.
3. Know your strengths (and your weaknesses). Take a practice test early and understand where you need to spend your study time. Then focus on those resources best equipped to practice the problems you struggle the most with.
4. Practice, practice, practice. There is no way around it; if you want to excel on the GMAT or GRE, you need to commit to putting in a lot of hours. Maintain a good mix of individual study, individual tutoring, group study, and prep courses to keep things fresh.
5. Lay out a schedule. To stay on track, lay out a schedule early on (at least six weeks before the exam, but hopefully even a few months prior). Make sure you’re dedicating at least a few nights every week to the work, and stick to it. It’s easy to fall out of the habit, but in order to succeed you have to be willing to grind it out.
6. Register to take the test. Getting your test date on the calendar will ensure you won’t face any last-minute logistical snags. Perhaps more importantly, it will also act as a strong forcing mechanism, keeping you focused and on schedule.
7. Practice like every day is test day. Replicate your test day experience as closely as possible when you’re studying. For example, many people neglect to practice the written section (the AWA). Of course it’s important to practice so you score well, but it’s also important in order to get accustomed to spending the additional hour in the test. After all, a big portion of the battle is simply stamina and focus on test day! Also, make sure you study in a quite place and at a desk when possible. Use the same type of pen and booklet that you’ll be given on test day. You can find great replicas
8. Know the available resources. There are countless study resources to help you prepare, along with full GMAT prep courses, tutors, prep books, practice CATs, and free access to old exams on sites like mba.com.
9. Show up rested. Showing up rested should not be underestimated. If you can, schedule a day or two off work. Make sure you get a solid night’s sleep. And keep to your body’s normal routine.
10. Retaking the test. According to the GMAC – the body that administers the GMAT – the standard error for the test is about 30 points. That means you should expect some fluctuation in your score from test to test (although that fluctuation can work both ways!). Admissions committees understand this, and they know that applicants can have bad days. So, if you feel like your score is truly not reflective of your ability, consider retaking the test (you’re allowed to take it once every 31 calendar days), but also be realistic about the improvement you can achieve from test to test.