GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) Overview

The GMAT is a standardized test used for admission to business schools worldwide, particularly for MBA and other graduate management programs. It assesses analytical writing, quantitative, verbal, and integrated reasoning skills.

GMAT Exam Pattern

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), meaning the difficulty level adjusts based on your performance. The test consists of four sections:

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) – 1 essay (30 minutes)

•         Evaluates your ability to analyze an argument and present a coherent critique.

    2.  Integrated Reasoning (IR) – 12 questions (30 minutes)

•        Tests data interpretation from multiple sources (graphs, tables, etc.).

    3.  Quantitative Reasoning – 31 questions (62 minutes)

•        Includes problem-solving and data sufficiency questions.
•        Tests arithmetic, algebra, and geometry skills.

    4.  Verbal Reasoning – 36 questions (65 minutes)

•        Covers reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and      sentence correction.

GMAT Scoring

• Total Score: 200-800 (Based on Quantitative & Verbal Sections)
• AWA Score: 0-6
• IR Score: 1-8
• Quant & Verbal Sections: Scored 6-51 each
• The test is computer-adaptive, meaning you cannot skip or go back to previous questions.

Preparation Tips

1. Understand the Exam Format: Get familiar with the structure and question types.
2. Use Official GMAT Prep Materials: Practice with GMAT Official Guide & GMAT Prep Software.
3. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaknesses and work on them.
4. Develop Time Management Skills: Practice pacing to complete sections on time.
5. Take Mock Tests: Simulate real exam conditions for better preparedness.
6. Review Mistakes: Analyze errors to avoid repeating them.
7. Strengthen Quant & Verbal Skills: Brush up on math concepts and enhance reading comprehension skills.
8. Stay Consistent: Study regularly with a structured plan.

GMAT Study Plan & Recommended Resources

A good GMAT preparation strategy typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on your current skill level and target score. Below is a structured study plan and recommended resources to help you succeed.

Recommended Study Resources

Official GMAT Materials (Best for Authentic Practice)

1. GMAT Official Guide (OG) (Basic, Verbal, and Quant guides)
2. GMATPrep Software (Free from MBA.com) – Official practice tests
3. GMAT Official Practice Exams (Paid) – For realistic mock tests

Best Books for GMAT

1. Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides – Best for in-depth topic-wise learning
2. Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course – Good for advanced strategies
3. PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible – Best for CR section
4. Aristotle GMAT Sentence Correction Grail – Excellent for SC

Online Platforms & Apps

1. GMAT Club (Forum for discussions & free practice questions)
2. Target Test Prep (TTP) – Great for Quant improvement
3. e-GMAT – Best for Verbal section (especially for non-native English speakers)
4. Magoosh GMAT – Affordable and good for self-paced study

GMAT 3-Month Study Plan

Month 1: Fundamentals & Concept Building

• Understand the exam structure & scoring.
• Review basic math concepts (arithmetic, algebra, geometry).
• Strengthen verbal basics: grammar rules, sentence correction, and reading skills.
• Resources: Manhattan Prep guides, GMAT Official Guide, e-GMAT (Verbal).

Month 2: Practice & Time Management

• Start solving timed questions from OG.
• Work on Data Sufficiency (DS) & Critical Reasoning (CR).
• Take one full-length GMAT mock test per week.
• Identify and focus on weak areas.
• Resources: GMAT Club, GMAT Prep Software, PowerScore CR Bible.

Month 3: Intensive Practice & Mock Tests

• Take 2-3 full-length practice tests per week.
• Focus on time management and test strategies.
• Practice Integrated Reasoning (IR) and AWA.
• Review and analyze mistakes from mocks to improve accuracy.
• Resources: GMAT Official Practice Exams, Magoosh, TTP for Quant

GMAT Test-Taking Strategies

1. Eliminate wrong answers quickly in Verbal.
2. Skip difficult questions strategically to save time.
3. Use estimation techniques in Quant for faster calculations.
4. Stay calm & manage stress with deep breathing techniques.