The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a critical stepping stone for aspiring business school candidates. Scoring above 700 on the GMAT can significantly enhance your chances of gaining admission to top-tier MBA programs. This article will provide essential tips and strategies to help you achieve this coveted score while also discussing the importance of the GMAT in the application process.
Understanding the GMAT
The GMAT is designed to assess your analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills. With a total score ranging from 200 to 800, a score above 700 places you in the top 10% of test takers. Here’s a quick breakdown of the GMAT’s four sections:
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This section measures your critical thinking and communication skills.
- Integrated Reasoning (IR): Focuses on your ability to evaluate information from multiple sources.
- Quantitative Reasoning (QR): Tests your mathematical skills and understanding of basic concepts.
- Verbal Reasoning (VR): Assesses your reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction abilities.
Why a Score Above 700 Matters
Achieving a GMAT score above 700 not only showcases your academic abilities but also indicates to admissions committees that you have a strong grasp of essential skills necessary for success in a rigorous MBA program. Competitive business schools often look for this benchmark when evaluating applicants, making it crucial for your application.
Essential Preparation Tips for Scoring Above 700
Here are some proven strategies to help you excel on the GMAT:
1. Create a Structured Study Plan
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the GMAT is to create a structured study plan. Here’s how you can go about it:
- Set Clear Goals: Determine your target score, ideally above 700, and break it down into achievable milestones.
- Allocate Time Wisely: Aim to study for at least 2-3 hours a day, several days a week, depending on your schedule.
- Use a Study Calendar: Track your progress and adjust your study plan as needed.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format
Understanding the GMAT format is crucial. Familiarize yourself with:
- The types of questions you’ll encounter in each section.
- The timing allocated for each section.
- The scoring system, including the importance of each component.
3. Take Diagnostic Tests
Before diving deep into your studies, take a full-length diagnostic test. This will help you:
- Identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Get accustomed to the timing and pressure of the actual exam.
- Set a baseline score.
4. Focus on Your Weaknesses
After taking the diagnostic test, analyze your performance. If you score lower in the Quantitative section, devote extra time to that area. Strategies include:
- Reviewing fundamental math concepts.
- Practicing problem sets and quantitative comparison questions.
- Using GMAT prep books that focus on quantitative reasoning.
5. Utilize Quality Prep Materials
Invest in high-quality GMAT prep resources, including:
- Official GMAT prep books from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).
- Online courses, video lectures, and webinars.
- Practice question banks that mimic real test questions.
6. Practice, Practice, Practice
Consistent practice is the key to improvement. Here are some effective ways to incorporate practice into your routine:
- Timed Practice Sets: Regularly complete timed sets of questions to simulate the test environment.
- Full-Length Practice Tests: Take several full-length practice tests to gauge your progress.
- Review Mistakes: Thoroughly analyze incorrect answers to understand where you went wrong.
7. Develop Test-Taking Strategies
Mastering test-taking strategies can help save time and improve accuracy:
- Elimination Technique: Learn to eliminate obviously incorrect answers.
- Time Management: Practice pacing yourself to ensure you complete each section in the allotted time.
- Educated Guesses: When uncertain, make educated guesses rather than leaving questions unanswered.
8. Work on Analytical Writing Skills
For the AWA section, practice writing essays within the 30-minute time limit. Focus on:
- Crafting clear and concise arguments.
- Using proper grammar and structure.
- Developing a strong thesis statement supported by relevant examples.
9. Enhance Verbal Skills
Verbal reasoning is a critical component of the GMAT. To improve:
- Read complex texts daily to develop comprehension skills.
- Practice grammar rules for sentence correction questions.
- Hone your critical reasoning by analyzing arguments and identifying flaws.
10. Stay Healthy and Manage Stress
Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of physical and mental well-being during your GMAT preparation:
- Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activities to reduce stress and enhance focus.
- Adequate Rest: Ensure you are well-rested, especially leading up to the test day.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Consider practices like meditation to help manage anxiety.
The Final Countdown: Test Day Preparation
As the test day approaches, remember these final tips:
- Review Basics: In the last few days, review key concepts rather than trying to learn new material.
- Get Organized: Prepare any required materials (ID, confirmation) the night before.
- Stay Calm: Practice deep breathing exercises to keep nerves at bay.
Conclusion: Achieving Your GMAT Goals
Scoring above 700 on the GMAT opens doors to exceptional business schools and career opportunities. By implementing these strategies—creating a structured study plan, familiarizing yourself with the test format, and practicing consistently—you can significantly enhance your chances of success. Remember, preparation is key, and the effort you invest in studying will pay off on test day.
By focusing on your strengths and addressing weaknesses, you can build the confidence needed to excel in the GMAT. Keep your sights set on that 700+ score, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your MBA dreams!
