Advice on Preparing for the GMAT

With the MBA application season closing in, many applicants are preparing to sit for their GMAT soon. The pressure to obtain a high score for entering a top notch B school is evident. The last thing you want is to reason why your palms are all sweaty and your mind is in a daze.

How can you be better prepared for GMAT? Here are some tips that helped me beat the GMAT.

1. WHEN?

- Even before you start studying for your GMAT, book your test date! Once you have a date in mind, you will automatically roll your sleeves up, plan better, and work for it.

2. HOW?

- First and foremost, you have got to set the bar and think of the score you would like to get. Get hold of all the books and study material that would help you achieve your dream score, and eventually your dream school. Also, join online forums like GMAT Club and Beat the GMAT. Here, you will be able to find decent practice questions, test strategy, and GMAT updates by fellow test takers.

3. Practice is the key when it comes to GMAT. Practice as much as you can and aim to give at least 5-6 mock tests before your actual test. This will enable you to mark your grey areas so you can work on them. Practicing also helps you manage GMAT’s infamous time constraints.

4. Do not give more weight to either Quant or Verbal. Treat them as equals and give them the attention that they deserve. Remember messing up in one section can reduce your entire score!

5. Relax and keep calm

- No matter what happens during your test, do not lose faith in yourself. Eat well and get adequate sleep. Do not touch your books a day before the test. Just keep a cool head and give your test.

“Don't live down to expectations.  Go out there and do something remarkable.” - Wendy Wasserstein

All the best! Enjoy the experience.

Urvashi Marda, Forté Fellow

MBA 2014, Kelley School of Business at Indiana University