30-Day GMAT Preparation Tips for Success
Preparing for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) in just 30 days may seem like a daunting task, but with a strategic approach, it is undoubtedly achievable. Here are some invaluable tips on how to pass the GMAT in just a month, as shared by Matilda Sawyer, drawing from the expertise of Ila Tanner, a renowned CFO from KPMG in the USA.
1. Study Every Day
The foundation of a successful GMAT preparation in 30 days lies in consistent and consistent study. According to Ila Tanner, you should engage in daily study sessions, even if it's just a couple of hours in the morning or evening. To maximize your efficiency, incorporate learning into your daily routines. For example, utilize public transportation to read or solve problems during your commute, or listen to GMAT-related content on a podcast or e-book while driving. Use your time on red lights for flashcards or recite prime numbers while waiting in traffic.
At home, involve your spouse, roommate, or siblings by testing your knowledge or discussing challenging problems. The objective is to seamlessly integrate GMAT studies into your daily life without sitting at a desk every night. Immersing yourself in this new world by hitting different sections each day can help maintain your motivation and prevent burnout.
2. Identify and Address Weaknesses
Avoiding the "dryer rack syndrome" by regularly identifying your weaknesses is crucial. According to Tanner, assess the areas where you feel rusty, struggle to approach, or face time constraints. For instance, if you are unfamiliar with arithmetic operations like fractions or long lost algebra skills, focus on strengthening these areas. Practice early and often; the sooner you recognize your gaps and turn them into strengths, the better your chances of success.
Tanner suggests addressing different concepts daily, such as 1.5 hours of reading comprehension, followed by 2 hours of quantitative problems, and then a break to tackle 2 hours of sentence correction. This approach helps maintain your cognitive engagement and prevents both physical and mental burnout. Utilizing diverse resources like podcasts, text books, and online tutorials can enhance your learning process.
3. Study in Short Blocks Rotating Concepts
To avoid the risk of burnout, distribute your study time into short, manageable blocks of 2-2.5 hours each, rotating between different types of problems. This method allows your brain to retain information more effectively and prevents you from reaching a saturation point. Regular breaks and varied study sessions can help you stay motivated and engaged.
Turn your GMAT preparation into a game by setting small rewards for yourself, like a candy bar or an hour of TV. This approach ensures that you maintain your enthusiasm and commitment through the month. Remember, the goal is not just to study every day, but to study effectively and without hating the process.
4. Review More Than You Think You Need To
Endeavor to spend at least 60% of your study time reviewing your mistakes. The 40/60 rule (40% answering questions, 60% reviewing) can significantly enhance your learning outcomes. A common mistake is skipping analysis and review after a practice test, leading to inefficient learning. Instead, analyze and learn from each mistake, even if the questions are straightforward. A gap in knowledge that reappears multiple times in practice tests is a clear indication that you need to focus on those areas.
To review quant problems effectively, change variables in the problem and see how different inputs affect the solution. Analyzing five variations of the same problem can yield more information than attempting five different questions. The key is not the quantity of questions answered but the quality of the information gained from reviewing your work.
5. Take at Least 1 GMAT Practice Test Per Week
To gauge your progress and familiarize yourself with the test format, take at least one full-length GMAT practice test per week. Include the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section and skip the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) if time is limited. A practice test can help you understand your timing and identify areas that need improvement. Weekly practice tests can help you adapt to the test environment and manage stress.
Even if you do not complete the entire test in the allotted time, take comfort in the fact that practice sessions can significantly reduce your stress and increase your confidence on test day. Remember, the goal is to prepare, not to stress. Stay positive and motivated, and embrace the challenge with a solid base of preparation.
In conclusion, preparing for the GMAT in 30 days requires a focused, strategic approach. By following these tips, you can make the most of your limited time and give the GMAT your best shot! Stay positive and believe in your abilities.