GMAT Study Strategies

Studying for the GMAT is just like studying for the SAT or ACT that you took to get into your undergraduate program. The problem is that everything has changed. Standardized tests are now given online instead of on paper, and you may have spent years in the workplace since you last took those tests or studied those math problems. So, you are probably looking for some great study strategies to help you pass the test with flying colors the first time around.

Get the Right Tools

Having the right tools can make all the difference when you're studying for the GMAT. You want to know what's on the test, what testing strategy to use, and how to deal with confusing questions. With the right tools, you will have the answers to all these questions right at your fingertips. Let's talk about a few of the most popular tools available.

The Official Guide for GMAT Review

The official guide has plenty of practice questions and many of them are the same as or similar to questions you will actually see on the test. The practice questions are also organized by their difficulty level, so the last 200 questions in a section are the questions you'll probably see on the test. Additionally, the free PowerPrep software is a lifesaver as it's exactly the same as what you'll experience when you take the real GMAT.

Princeton Review

The Princeton Review book has great review sections for both the Quantitative and Verbal sections of the test. If you need to build on basic skills, the Princeton Review is a great choice. Another helpful feature is that the book helps you learn to easily crack difficult questions. As with similar products, a software component is offered to help you become accustomed to the real test.

Kaplan

The Quantitative review appendix in the Kaplan book is exceptional. If math is your biggest issue, I would suggest this book. The software that comes with the book is okay but nothing special. Still the strategies offered are brilliant and you can get a lot out of this book.

Classes

Another review strategy is to take classes to review for the GMAT. These are very expensive, though. A better option might be to convince a professor who is familiar with the test to lead a practice session or create a study group with your friends who are taking the test around the same time. Having the support of others in the same boat can be a great help when you become tired of studying and simply want to give up. Plus, they may understand sections that confuse you and vice versa. Consider studying with others so that you are actively, rather than passively, learning - you'll retain more and perform better if you are actively reviewing for the test.

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