If you're planning to pursue an MBA or any other management program abroad, taking the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a vital step. The exam assesses your analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in English. Preparation is crucial to excel in GMAT and requires time, dedication, and effort. However, before starting your GMAT preparation, knowing the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and other vital aspects is essential.
This blog will discuss the top 10 things you need to know before starting your GMAT preparation. This guide will help you navigate the preparation phase smoothly and understand what to expect from the exam.
What is GMAT?
GMAT stands for Graduate Management Admission Test. It is a standardised test designed to assess specific skills necessary for success in graduate business programs, such as an MBA. The GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) and is accepted by over 7,000 graduate business programs worldwide. The test consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, meaning that the difficulty of questions adapts based on the test-takers performance. The test is generally taken by those seeking admission to MBA programs and other graduate business programs.
GMAT exam format
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a computer-based standardised test used to assess the analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills of candidates seeking admission to graduate management programs, such as MBA, in various business schools worldwide. The exam consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative, and Verbal. Each section is designed to evaluate different skills, and the exam takes about 3.5 hours to complete. The GMAT is adaptive, meaning the difficulty level of the subsequent questions depends on the test-taker's performance on the previous questions.
10 Things To Know About Before Your GMAT Preparation
- Understand the exam format and content: It is essential to understand the GMAT exam format and content before starting your preparation. The GMAT exam consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. Each section assesses different skills, and understanding the exam format will help you develop a study plan accordingly.
- Establish your strengths and weaknesses: An efficient study plan requires understanding your strengths and shortcomings. You may determine your present level of knowledge and the areas that need more attention with a diagnostic exam.
- Develop a study plan: Developing a study plan is essential to cover all the topics and practice enough before the exam. Your study plan should include a mix of self-study, practice tests, and coaching sessions.
- Use official GMAT preparation material: The official GMAT preparation material is the most reliable source of practice questions and study material. Official GMAT preparation material can help you understand the exam format and content better.
- Practice time management: Time management is essential to getting a high GMAT score. You have a set amount of time to finish each portion of the timed exam. You may increase your speed and accuracy by practising time management when taking practice exams.
- Take breaks: Studying for long hours without breaks can lead to burnout. Taking breaks can help you relax and rejuvenate, which is essential for staying focused and motivated.
- Avoid last-minute preparation: Cramming at the last minute can lead to anxiety and stress, negatively impacting your exam performance. Giving yourself enough time to prepare and practice before the exam is essential.
- Seek help when required: If you struggle with a particular topic or concept, do not hesitate to seek help from a coach or mentor. Seeking help can help you clear your doubts and better understand the topic.
- Practice with a purpose: Practicing with a goal can help you improve your skills and identify areas that require more attention. Analyse your mistakes and work on improving them to achieve a better score.
- Stay motivated: GMAT preparation can be challenging, and staying motivated throughout the process is essential. Setting achievable goals, rewarding yourself for achieving them, and staying positive can help you stay motivated and reach your target score.
Also, Read All You Need To Know About GMAT Mock Test
Mistakes to avoid in the GMAT exam
Here are seven mistakes to avoid during GMAT preparation:
- Lack of time management: The GMAT exam is time-bound, and candidates need help to complete each section. Learning time management skills during GMAT preparation is crucial to finish each section within the allocated time. Practising with timed mock tests can help you improve your time management skills.
- Neglecting weak areas: Candidates often focus on their strengths and neglect weak areas during GMAT preparation. It is crucial to identify your weak areas and allocate more time to study and practice them.
- Not following a study plan: A study plan is essential to stay on track and cover all the topics in the GMAT exam. Not following a study plan can lead to a lack of preparation, stress, and poor performance on the test day.
- Relying only on study materials: While they are essential for GMAT preparation, more than relying on them may be required. It's crucial to practice with mock tests, join a study group or take an online GMAT course to understand the exam better.
- Ignoring the importance of sleep and nutrition: Good sleep and nutrition are essential for overall health and mental well-being. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during GMAT preparation is crucial to stay focused and performing well on the test day.
- Not practising with official GMAT materials: The official GMAT materials are the most reliable source of preparation as they provide accurate information about the exam. Not practising with official GMAT materials can lead to confusion and poor performance on the test day.
- Overconfidence: Overconfidence can harm your GMAT preparation and performance on the test day. It's crucial to remain grounded and maintain a positive attitude while preparing for the exam. Practice and preparation are crucial to success on the GMAT exam.
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Talk to an ExpertFAQs
What is the GMAT exam?
The GMAT exam is a computer-based test designed to measure the skills required for success in graduate business and management programs.
How long does the GMAT test last?
With breaks, the GMAT exam lasts around three hours and thirty minutes.
How many times am I allowed to take the GMAT?
With a 16-day break between exams, you can take the GMAT exam up to five times yearly.
How much does the GMAT test cost?
In most nations, the GMAT exam costs $250.
What is a suitable GMAT rating?
A decent GMAT score varies depending on the institution you are applying to. Generally speaking, a score of 700 or more is considered good.
How can I get ready for the GMAT test?
A GMAT prep course, self-study with GMAT prep materials, online practice exams, and time management drills are all effective ways to prepare for the GMAT exam.
How much time should I devote to my GMAT preparation?
Your present level of expertise will determine how much time you should spend studying for the GMAT exam. In general, 2-3 months at least are advised for preparation.
Is the GMAT test challenging?
Although the GMAT exam is difficult, performing well with the proper preparation is feasible.
Can I reverse my GMAT results?
If you're unhappy with your performance, you can cancel your GMAT results after the test.
