Best Way to Prep for GMAT
I'm about to start studying/prepping for the GMAT and am hoping someone can share some advice with me.
Which books are best?
Should I take a course?
Any other useful tips to know before spending time and money that will help me get the best score possible?
Thanks a lot!
if you do a search, you can turn up some pretty good results.
people seem to have had good results with Manhattan GMAT prep.
I personally used real GMAT questions book and Barron's GMAT 2011 and did better than I expected. I found Barron's questions were tougher than the actual GMAT questions.
Go through the original guide first, the big orange gmat book. Great introduction to the questions.
Manhattan GMAT's sentence correction is a great resource. I'm not a big fan of their math books though.
For math, I really like jeff sackmann's "total gmat math." You can also buy a huge database of his questions online. A bit pricy, but they are a great resource. You can get like 1800 problems for around $150.
I've heard good things about grockit and gmat pill although i never used them. I was not a big fan of knewton, which does online course. Good for people trying to break 650 but not in-depth enough for those looking to crack 750.
I did self study using the Peterson's GMAT book the first time(which is absolute garbage by the way but I didn't know that at the time) and scored a 700. Wasn't happy with my 44Q though so I decided to retake. I got the Official Guide and GMAT 800 books. I also took the Kaplan GMAT Advanced Online course. The course gave a few tips I wouldn't have come up with on my own. Ultimately though it just gave structure and a huge set of practice problems and 9 practice CATs. I didn't take all of the CATs but did lots of practice problems on the areas I knew I needed help in. Brought my score up to a 750 with a 48Q 46V.
At that point, you have exhausted just about every resource. If you have not broken 750 by this point, purchase the Official Guide to Quantitative Review and Official Guide to Verbal Review and go through them. They are like miniature versions of the OG13, and after completing them, you should retake your first official GMAT Prep CAT. You will see a few of the same questions, but your performance ought to be so drastically better that thanks to the adaptive software, you quickly progress past the questions you've seen to the hardest ones the software has.
I followed those steps and scored in the 99th percentile. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the step by step. Will get on that soon.
Thanks a lot for the help.
Any consensus on which book to start with as an overall help before buying specifics for math or other subjects as some posters did?
Having used Kaplan, Manhattan GMAT and Knewton. I say Knewton all the way.
It was by FAR the best program. Especially for verbal.
I scored a 630 and a 660 on the GMAT Prep practice tests after quiet a bit of studying using the MGMAT guides. Math is my weakness wtf can i do??
Thanks for the mention, Brady4MVP.
As finance professionals, you might be interested in this GMAT question related to Apple's (AAPL) stock price:
http://www.gmatpill.com/gmat-practice-test/gmat-integrated-reasoning/gr…
Everyone has different learning styles. In general, we don't recommend using books besides the Official Guide. After all, the actual exam is in front of a computer. Even the new Official Guide questions for integrated reasoning are online in the form of a paid online question bank.
We believe less is more. The only 3 resources we recommend to our students are: 1) Official Guide to the GMAT (13th edition including IR question bank) 2) GMAT Prep software 3) GMAT Pill membership + access to Practice Pill Platform
We also recently released the first iPad app for GMAT that lets you download course videos directly onto your iPad so you can view videos on-the-go without internet. Take a look!
Hope that helps!
How to prepare for the GMAT? (2 year horizon) (Originally Posted: 10/29/2013)
Let's say I am going to take the GMAT in about 2 years, how can I start preparing? Or is it too early? What is the right time to start? T minus 6 mos/1 year?
6 months total and that's taking it SLOW. The standard prep time is usually ~3 months. I'm not sure what your work hours are like though.
Like DBCooper said, 3 months is a good time frame if you're serious about studying. Any longer, and you risk getting burnt out.
You could even do it in less than 3 months. It just depends on your prior quant and verbal abilities.
If you're a decent test taker, I don't think you need more than a month.
I think the reading comp and critical thinking are pretty low marginal value add for hours studied after an initial familiarization, so what I did was focus on the Sentence Correction (memorizing the various grammar rules) and the math (for which you need to be quick and accurate).
I took a GMAT-provided practice test at the very beginning on my studying, and then took a Manhattan practice test every few days and focused on understanding each question I missed. I then took the second GMAT practice test a couple days before and made sure I got some decent sleep. Ended up with a 99th percentile score, so it worked for me.
I like to leave a lot of time to prepare. It took me 3 months. If you're a native speaker and decent at math, you don't need more than 2-3 weeks to refresh yourself on the material. Another 2 months of practicing you'll be golden. I actually found taking 1-2 weeks off at the end helped everything sink in. Don't rush it, but you don't need 6 months.
a month is good enough if you are good at math. It only took me 2-3 weeks to prepare GMAT when I was college senior. This year I spent a little bit over a month to prepare and take it again since last one expired. I'm not native speaker and my grammar is like crap
Let's assume that I'm not a native speaker of English and I'm bad at Math. Then?
You not being a native speaker can give you a semi-advantage for sentence correction, because you will look at it more as a formula than a sentence. That being said, you should be good at math for that. A true paradox.
If you're bad at both, realistically I'd say 3 months is plenty of time. Look into taking a class or tutor to keep you motivated. In my experience, a class gets you to the 650 level, then your hard work pushes above 700. Or a tutor so I hear.
When you guys say to study for 1-3 months...what kind of time commitment are you talking about per day/week?
2-4 hours a day
I think you need to think about how much time you will be able to commit in the 1 month prior to the test. A busy student or junior analyst for example should spend at least 3 months preparing of at 3-5 hours per day, with more than this on the weekend. Most people I know have spent around 8 hours per day, for 1 month, and score into the 700s.
A good way for you to figure out how much time you need would be to try a practice test about 4 to 6 months before the GMAT. If you find the math part challenging, or another part, then over the next 1 to 2 months you could focus in on that. Then would you get to 3 months out you could start practising with tests.
The more you prepare the better you will likely score - up to a point though.
From the time I first started studying to when I actually took the test was 9 months. This is because I wanted absolutely zero rush or time pressure, I wanted to make sure I got a good score. I did take advantage of the no pressure thing though, I think at one point I went about 4-5 months without studying once. For the record, I got a 760.
I would say start as early as possible, but keep in mind that GMAT scores are good for 5 years. I would look at what year you want to apply, take 5 years away from that, and start studying as early as possible. If you feel comfortable that you'll get your score after 1 week of studying, awesome, go for it. If not, you've got plenty of time..
Rather than saying "I want to study for X months then take the GMAT" you should say "I want X score" and study until you feel confident you'll get that score. If you start early enough, timing won't be an issue.
MFFL has a fantastic comment. Give yourself tons of time and keep studying until you achieve the score you want. It is absolutely impossible to guess how much studying is appropriate. Each person is incredibly different. They are starting at different points and learning at different rates. The only way to be absolutely sure you get the score you want is start WAY in advance.
It also just depends on what type of person you are. For me, I needed to give myself a finite window (2.5 months or so), during which I would be forced to study a lot and hard to make sure I was ready. Of course, at the end, if I wasn't ready, I could always postpone, but having that deadline was key for me.
I mean, MFFL says he gave himself nine months, but took 4-5 months off. What's the point? Seems like the average is about 1-3 months, so know yourself, your skillset, and your bandwidth for studying, and figure out a plan.
The only thing to make sure of is that you have plenty of time to take the test twice before you even want to start applications. As long as you do that, and don't take it five years before you apply (MIT is actually now four years), you'll be fine.
I think it depends on your study habits. Because of work, I couldn't devote a long term plan and had to take 2 weeks "vacation abroad" right before my scheduled exam date to crunch. All I had were the official book and the 2 official tests (software). I suggest first thing in the morning to take an exam as if it were real, then crunch through the 1000+ questions front and back in the official book. I went through these questions twice over, and took the tests around 4 times each.
Manhattan GMAT study strategy (Originally Posted: 05/02/2012)
I'm taking the GMAT in about 3-4 weeks and just got the MGMAT book. What's the best way to study these books?
I took a practice using GMATprep. Should I finish the book for the section I struggled most with, and then go to the next book, or jump around between books?
Thanks.
I'll tell you what worked very well for me and friends I helped study.
Start with your most frequent errors. Review that math section (e.g. rates, probability or whatever). Read and memorize every math concept and rule for that section. 1) Do the practice problems in the mgmat book. 2) Do all the associated math problems in the OG. 3) Write down all errors and incorporate those into a formula sheet that includes common catches/errors along with formulas and rules. If you have any questions after that, find other difficult math problems of that type until you hardly ever miss even the most advanced questions. Remember, the test is timed and will throw new twists at you so you have to be 100% fluent. When you get through 8-12 sections of math, take another timed test, and review those missed questions too. I recommend MGMAT CAT tests. Do about 6 of those before the real thing
It's ok to jump around from book to book, but don't leave a problem type unmastered before moving on. This is probably the number one reason people plateau at a lower score.
This!
I have sheet with all the equations and formulas if you need it.
I'm not TOO worried about the quant section, but rather more worried about the verbal section. Any suggestions on how I could improve SC/CR/RC?
Still start with the area you are missing the most questions.
No matter what though, make sure you learn all types of SC /grammar rules from the guide. Also practice those according to topic.
SC are easiest to study for so get all of those right. I think that MGMAT overcomplicates SC/CR so if you need more tips down the line, pm me and I'll help you. My friends improved around 10-15 raw points (some were not native english speakers) from my specific suggestions for those two sections. I know that's a big improvement, but that's how important it is to be approaching the sections effectively.
same disincentivy...i pm'ed you
This thread could get like that ER test thread very quickly....
I am seconding the ER report thread trend. By hanging a lantern on it, its going to be ok when I ask for it too.
Can I get it also?
So I just did the official practice test, got 13 wrong in verbal 10 of them in SC. Is it possible to improve substantially before my test in 2 days? eja456, can I know what tips did you give your friends?
Also, 11 of the 14 I got wrong in quant was in Data Sufficiency. Any tips on tackling these right?
i had trouble with data sufficiency as well and the secret to me for cracking them was do as many as you can until you're comfortable with them. Like many others said they should become substantially easier than PS because you can narrow choices down and do much less calculating..
For SC i hear the manhattan guide is good but I got a guide off of gmatclub or beatthegmat (cant remember which) by someone named slingfox who summarized all the rules from the guide. Just search his name and you'll find it
Yes, I will send it to everyone. I am so sorry if I haven't responded to your PM; I've been working like a mad woman on shrooms. Hopefully I will have time to send it tonight or tomorrow.
what type of SC questions were they? There's usually a primary error and then a secondary. If you're having trouble with idioms, there will most likely be a secondary error that you can hone in on.
DS. When I was practicing, I basically asked myself if I could say "yes" or "no" to the question. If so then either/both are sufficient. If you get "neither is sufficient" then double-check your work b/c it usually (but maybe) isn't the anwer.
So, I was able to send the documents to those who gave me their emails. For some reason I cannot attach anything through the PM attachment option, it keeps giving me an error, although I reduced size files.
Anyway, I am sending the most common formula cheat sheet, an amazing set of printable flashcards that helped me a lot and a scribadoole PDF by someone on their final review night before the test. His doodles are of course hand written so it helped me lock the memory of what formulas look like and what angles sit where in shapes stuffed inside circles. I do not know the dude, but I send him virtual thanks almost every day.
If you want the files, please send me your email and I am more than happy to send.
Hey, could you please send me the material too? I know this is an old post, but I would really appreciate it if you could send me any study material you still have, thanks!
PM'd, thanks in advance.
SB'd! Thanks
Coming from someone who scored a 700.
My verbal was relatively good on my first attempt (39) but I noticed that my SC was my biggest weakness. I did not find that the Manhattan guide explained SC very well.
Next attempt I stumbled across a website called GMATpill. Bumped my SC up 2 points to a 41, doesnt seem like a big jump but its over 15% percentile difference. The website really doesnt teach you much about actual grammar but teaches you how to notice patterns in the SC that you can easily spot and select the right answer. Also has a million practice problems. It cost me only like 90 bucks or so. Definitely worth it for me.
Best GMAT prep book? (Originally Posted: 01/29/2009)
Is there a consensus best GMAT prep book? Thanks
the official guides (green, purple, orange) and mgmat sentence correction
Manhattan GMAT, hands down. If you take one of their classes, you get their 8 books + the official guides.
I took the GMAT earlier this week and scored in the mid 700's. Not too bad :)
also check out http://www.beatthegmat.com/
thanks
So would the official GMAT prep guides be sufficient enough to prepare for the actual GMAT?
depends on how far you need to improve. if you take a practice without studying and get in the high 600s then probably. if you get low 600s, youll prob need to review concepts more and i think some of the mgmat books (esp SC) will help
iambateman, how do the Manhattan GMAT books compare to the Princeton Review guide? I was rocking the SC questions in the OG, but after doing the most difficult verbal questions in the PR guide, I realized that I needed more pointers. PR's SC review is pretty solid. Would you recommend the MGMAT RC guide? RC's my weak point as of now. I might just get it solely for the 6 free practice exams.
nygiants, I second iambateman's advice. Get the OG guides (orange, green, and purple) solely for the practice questions. Don't rely on them for test-taking strategies. If you find yourself scoring in the low 600s on the OG's practice exams, purchase a guide that helps you with test-taking strategies, such as those from Princeton Review or Manhattan GMAT.
I've heard mixed reviews on the Kaplan guide, with a slight majority saying that the questions don't really resemble what you'll find on the GMAT, that the strategies and advice are weird, and that there are lots of typos and errors. I've also heard that the Kaplan practice tests are extremely difficult for the purpose of goading you into enrolling in their course for additional help. No direct experience with Kaplan, but that's what I've heard.
bump
bump
+1 on the Manhattan books and the official guides. Sure, the whole set may be pricey but take it from someone who tried to be cheap and really really regretted it.
And yeah, try this: http://gmatclub.com/forum/best-gmat-books-77703.html
Best GMAT Prep Book/Classes (Originally Posted: 06/06/2010)
Advice? The other posts are kind of old.
Thanks
In terms of what materials to buy, get anything and everything with Princeton Review or Kaplan on it, from my experience those are the only brand names you can trust with certainty. I dont think its worth taking a class, unless you have money to burn or you learn well when a lecturer basically recites information already written in their books.
Also, you can buy official GMAT tests, and of course use the GMAT online test prep software.
I got a 740 using only these 3 sources (PR, Kaplan, official GMAT) for what thats worth.
Um, I haven't heard too much about PR/Kaplan - I would suggest starting with a GMATPrep (free download from MBA.com) practice test, find your weak spots and then use Manhattan GMAT (MGMAT) materials to work on those weaknesses. Official GMAT is also valuable. Generally though, MGMAT is regarded as the "gold standard" in GMAT Prep. Kaplan's tests are too hard, but in an unrealistic way (from what I'm told, didn't use them).
Personally, I used GMATPrep/Official GMAT/some MGMAT resources (their CAT and a couple books) and got a 770.
actually, ive found manhattan gmat to be much more useful in reaching the higher end of the scoring spectrum. they do a great job of integrating it with the official gmat questions, they have SUBSTANTIALLY fewer typos and mistakes in the books (i dont think kaplan knows what proofreading is), the tutors are better trained and more qualified, and they have 6 very useful practice CAT GMATs
great... thanks!
Best Study Guide/Book to study for the GMATs? (Originally Posted: 03/28/2010)
So I've got a few months to kill before starting my banking job in the New York and I figure I knock out the GMATs. Which study guide/book would you suggest? Hopefully people who have actually taken the test and done well will respond. I've read all the reviews online but I figure someone can provide some insight not on the standard mba sites.
Thanks guys
i used kaplan to learn the "theory" behind the questions and the official guide for practice. they worked out well.
I only used the official guide to study. Actually I only did the practice questions to be honest and it was enough.
stk is right. any guide besides the official one either hurts you by wasting your time or is not very useful. i just wanted to get two perspectives on the test, but kaplan did not add much value to my studying.
Kaplan may have not worked for jnr, but it certainly worked well for me; I would definitely suggest Kaplan Premier Live Online 2010. It's a book that comes with an online companion (6 practice tests very similar to the real thing, numerous quizzes, in-depth reviews, etc.).
Thanks guys
TheSunKing,
Not sure if you've already got all your study materials sorted out but I'd recommend having a look at this website http://www.businessbecause.com/schools/the-700-gmat-guide.htm. It contains several articles aboutGMAT Guides to success and real-life experiences of individuals who have written it and done well! Some useful materials are:
Manhattan GMAT (Sentence Correction, Reading Comp, all math) GMAT - Verbal Extra Practice (Green) GMAT - Quant Extra Practice (Purple) Original Guide 11th Edition CR Powerscore Bible Manhattan GMAT - Free Test (1 other free test...PR would do) 1 x easy/cheap GMAT book you can find (Barrons, Kaplan's, PR, etc)
Hope this helps!
what's the structure of the official practice guide like?
Best GMAT PREP (Originally Posted: 01/03/2010)
I'm planning on taking my GMATs in the next couple months, so I want to prepare as much as possible in order to land a nice score. What are the best methods/classes to prep for it? Is Kaplan worth the money? What books should I look into buying?
Thanks.
i did the vertias online thing. set me back $800, but its got videos and books for all different types of questions, in addition to the normal GMAT book with all questions together. helped me kill it. 760. well worth the money
check ur pm's
Why not post the advice for all to see? Anyone who comes to this page can either add insight or has the same questions, so there's no use in pming this stuff.
I think Manhattan Gmat is da worstest
Hey All, I'm taking the GMAT soon how do most prep for it. How hard is it to break the 700+ barrier
I have used all 3 of the OG guides as well as the princeton review, etc. I found the OG guides to be good for sample questions, etc. Do a torrent search as most of the books are available online.
How hard is it to break the 700+ barrier. Depends on the individuals. The test is adaptive so as you get the questions correct they will increase in difficulty. That being said they are all basic mathematical concepts you learn in high school. I think the best tip is do practice tests so you develop a smooth pace for answering questions. Manage time properly and learn how to take the test. The questions are asked in a GMAT specific way.
Alright, thanks.
Has anyone had experience with Kaplan courses?
I have heard ok things about the courses. I met a Kaplan tutor and she was very smart and helpful. I would get the books, do a bunch of practice tests so you can identify your weak areas and then see if you can get a tutor for a little bit. Probably the most helpful.
I got a discount on the Manhattan GMAT course and it was pretty good. You can get 33% off with a referral. I think they are still running that program. If anyone wants one, PM me and I'll see if I can hook you up.
I used the Kaplan basic prep + CD book. Found it to be very thorough and harder than the acual test, which was useful. Kaplan + one or both of the official GMAC prep books should be about all you need if you run through all content at least once.
GMAT Prep - Junior year (Originally Posted: 01/24/2014)
I'm in my junior year now and my school offers a dual MS/BBA in finance but I need to take the GMAT in order to get into the program. I've tried researching prep classes in my area but I can't afford the $1,500 tuition to take one of those classes. Does anyone have any suggestions about where I can take a class that isn't going to break my bank account?
Just don't take a class. I actually did take a class (Manhattan GMAT Live Online class for $1k), but it proved to be pretty useless after a few weeks because it moved so slowly. Buy all the Manhattan books if you need detailed review of Quant topics (I did), the Official Guide, and search on GMAT Club for a good study plan. There are plenty floating around. You can probably buy all those books used for like, $100.
The GMAT is really just about two big things: 1) learning how to take the test (timing, Data Sufficiency, etc.) and 2) overcoming your weaknesses. Therefore, you really need to study the concepts underlying your weak areas a ton, and you need to take a bunch of practice tests to understand the timing and flow of the actual test.
Look on GMAT Club. There are a ton of resources on there for people looking for a structured approach to taking the GMAT.
Good advice. I'd also recommend taking a diagnostics test before studying so you know where you start.
^ Agreed. Also will give you a solid baseline for how much work you have to do. If you score a 700 on the first CAT, you're probably going to want to do a relatively accelerated study plan to focus on a few areas of weakness/test taking skills. If you score a 580 (not that uncommon if you've never seen the test before), you probably will need a bit more of a comprehensive approach.
Is there somewhere online I can take a free diagnostic test so I can have it graded and timed so I know where I should start focusing or should I just take it out of the back of the book? I already have a Kaplan study book
http://www.manhattangmat.com/free-gmat.cfm
Manhattan's CATs are a bit harder (I think) than the real thing, but tend to give a very accurate score prediction. You can also do one of the two Official GMAT Prep tests, which are real GMAT questions from the actual test company, but I personally would save those for later. They're valuable tools for studying later.
Thank you so much!
I'm taking the GMAT in a month and I have been using Magoosh to refresh my quant and verbal. I'd recommend checking out their website and it's pretty cheap, $99.
Also, I would like to have everyone's input on the best way to study for it. I plan on taking a practice test to see where I stand and go from there. Any other ideas/tips/suggestions?
Read phantombanker's prep guide, pops up either in WSO or Google search.
Studying for GMAT (Originally Posted: 09/23/2006)
Is freshman year in college a good time to start studying for the GMAT?
No. You only need about 2 months to study for the GMAT.
it really impresses recruiters for internships if you can put good GMAT, LSAT and GRE scores on your resume. Also add your IQ score if you have it (but only if Mensa-certified), and Myers-briggs type.
oh, and try to get into toastmasters and put that on your resume too...
Do employers prefer if we put M-Briggs type on our resume?
Also, is toastmasters really that recommended. I am in my senior year and I was thinking of joining that club.
Go look for internships.
And if you're in Mensa, don't put it on your resume.
Toastmasters is good. Also try to do some econ or business related club. Just one will do, no need to do every club on the campus.
I am ESTJ by the way.
Some interesting numbers from Kroeger's Type Talk at Work:
Executives: 32.1% ISTJ 28.0% ESTJ 15.8% INTJ 9.4% ENTJ 5.3% ENTP Remaining less than 5% each
Entry Level: 19% ISTJ 16% ESTJ 9% ISFP 8% ISFJ 8% ISTP 8% ESFJ 5% INFP 5% ESTP 5% ESFP 5% ENFP Remaining less than 5% each
So I guess this bodes well for us.
forgot to add these to my list: astrological sign, blood type (especially if you plan on applying in Asia), weight, height, benchpresses, 40 yard time (particularly important for IB, as they want to be sure you are physically fit for the job)
I heard also (didn't know about it myself back when I was interviewing...) that it helps if you can bring your mother (bonus points if she is jewish/chinese) and girlfriend (in the unlikely event you have one) with you to the interview. Signals that your whole family and intimate circle supports you in your career choice. Banks value that
well said jaja
how many clubs should I join? 3? 4? Im in the Finance Society. How important is toastmasters? what other clubs are good to join?
Between 1 and 3 based on your interests.
These prospects smell of desperation - not pedigree.
ENTJ "The Fieldmarshall".
I'm not entirely in agreement with the distinction between T and F. I think someone could have both traits equally expressed.
Curious what everyone else is. You can take the test below.
http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes1.htm
E14 I7 S14 N12 T19 F5 J14 P8
Thus I have a huge preference for Thinking versus Feeling; but my propensity for Sensing is only slight compared to Intuiting.
not a banker yet, but ISTJ. had no idea I was in such good company
Fuck clubs, join a frat, drink beer, play beer pong, smoke pot, party, and fuck dumb bitches, that is what life is about.
I realize what you are saying and noted the same thing. However, I think that in the way the test is used you are classified as either black or white. Anyway, not interested in tearing the test apart and making a scientific argument, but that's my two cents.
Best GMAT Prep Course (Originally Posted: 01/12/2012)
Hi all,
I am graduating early from college and will have spring all for myself. I plan to take gmat courses and then take the test either in April or June before the change. Was wondering what has been helpful for all to take? I've heard really good reviews from Manhattan GMAT and only heard about Veritas when I joined this forum. I can only afford one class and I was thinking of just buying the book from the other. If you were in my shoes which prep course would you get?
Also since the GMAT is valid for 5 years, I plan on applying to MBA my 4th year, does anyone know if MBA admissions look down or discount the scores since I took them so long ago and esp since this will be after the change?
Thanks!
Here you go.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Best+GMAT+Prep+Course
Thank me later.
^lulz
Fez, very funny link. But on a serious note, I'm not sure what materials are the best...but I had a friend who used http://www.gmatpill.com/ and said it was great (only if you are good at self-study). Hope this helps
lol already did the search but thx for doing it again for me fez ;) (there I thanked you)
Thanks Pike, I guess I wasn't clear enough, I'm trying to find the best prep program. I've seen ads for this and am considering getting either this or the Manhattan/Veritas study guides as a supplement to classes.
But before I do, I'd love to hear any feedback other people may have had with these programs? I hear Kaplan and Princeton aren't worth it since they just teach you tricks and not to actually solve the problems.
Hi Pike,
Thanks for the mention. We're glad we were able to help your friend. Would you be able to let us know his/her name? We'd like to thank them and offer him/her a chance to write a review on a third party site and earn a $25 Amazon giftcard.
We don't advertise heavily the way other programs do but are glad to see good words floating around.
Here's a student who got a GMAT Score from 650 to 760 + 25 minutes left on the exam
Enjoy!
Veritas prep and manhattan gmat are probably the best ones. Knewton offers an online course; a lot of people like it, but it didn't really work for me.
FWIW I did the self-study Kaplan on-line course. I would only recommend it if you are in a bind for time as you can speed through it pretty quickly. You also get a LOT (I think 9) practice tests that follow the exact format. The lessons are not very good though and almost all the value was in the practice test/explanations. Kaplan spent far too much time spent re-hashing high school math concepts that most people already know, and not teaching good strategy to solve problems quickly.
All that said, I raised my score 60 pts from my first practice to my final test, so I guess it worked.*
*DISCLAIMER - I have a sneaking suspicion Kaplan scores their practices conservatively so they can live up to their higher score guarantee. I never scored within 30 points of my actual test socre on any of their practices.
Does anyone have experience with the Veritas Prep package? I see a lot of people writing that is very good, but no real information about how it stacks up against other programs.
Still considering taking a program or just going through the books myself. I consider myself primarily a self-studier/independent but really can't fck this up.
I've actually been using Manhattan GMAT books to self study. It's pretty darn good so far.
Nice, I actually ended up just buying the 8 Manhattan. I'll see how this goes.
GMAT study material (Originally Posted: 07/29/2012)
What is the best study material for the GMAT?
Preferably more focused on the verbal side than the quant side.
Thanks
Manhattan. Official guide. Veritas.
GMAT PILL
How is GMAT pill? Is it worth it?
Second the Manhattan recommendation. Materials are thorough for each topic
I also used the Manhattan guides and I think they are great - I saw the biggest improvement in my verbal score. Also, their practice tests are GREAT - you get six of them and the quant is harder than the actual exam and prepares you very well.
Best of luck.
I think the single best verbal book has to be the CR Bible. It totally changed my approach to CR and made my practice problem success rate go up from 70% to about 95%. The CR Bible breaks down the CR questions into 3 major categories and 10 or 12 (I cant remember anymore) subcategories. Once you recognize the patterns, you will see right through the wrong answers and select the right one.
Didn't the GMAT format just change? If so, I think the best materials would be the 'official' guides.
For math, I highly recommend "total gmat math" by jeff sackmann, who runs the gmathacks site. His math materials are awesome.
Is it just me , or are a lot of the Critical Reasoning Questions on the Kaplan Quizzes just really unclear and badly written. I'm switching to Manhattan GMAT.
The CR bible from PowerScore is awesome.
Kaplan and Princeton review are both horrendous.
For sentence correction the manhattan gmat guide is the bible. CR bible from powerscore is apparently good, but i haven't used it yet.
For math, jeff sackmann's material on gmathacks. Very thorough analysis of the various topics, lot of tough questions to practice with.
The GMAT is now more important than ever before, moreso than essays and second behind work experience.
Manhattan is the way to go. Just make sure you buy with plenty of time before you actually take the test. The verbal material can be difficult to take in within a very short amount of time. Supplement Manhattan with the Official GMAT guides (The green, blue, and red books, although there is some overlap).
Brady is right. Don't even open a page of Kaplan and Princeton review books. You could get that info in a 4th grade grammar class, so don't bother. Manhattan has real strategies that really change the way you test.
Finally, nothing beats practice tests. The test is more just a brainmelter more than anything. When you think you did well, you did horrible, and if you thought you did awful, you probably crushed it. Get used to the feeling of being completely defeated by taking 8-10 practice Computer Adaptive Tests online. Manhattan alone gives you 6, MBA.com gives you 2 more, and you can dig up 2-3 more between free Kaplan and Princeton review CATs. Good luck to you.
Knewton seems to be working out.. the question is when you will take time out of the schedule to "study" for this...
Good way to prepare for the GMAT (Originally Posted: 02/18/2009)
Hi All, I will be taking the GMAT sometime in May or early June. I wanted to know what is a good way to prepare for them other than taking classes. I really can't afford to take classes from Kaplan and likes, plus I dont have the time to do so. Can anyone suggest good books and methods to prepare for the test. Thanks.
buy at least the following books
OG 11, OG verbal, OG math http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0976570904?ie=UTF8&tag=timtee-20&linkC…
manhattan gmat SC guide (the bible to SC plus gives you access to 6 mgmat CAT online tests) http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0981853366?ie=UTF8&tag=timtee-20&linkC…
also check out www.beatthegmat.com
I second bateman's advice. Took me from a 640 without any practice to a 760.
Thanks guys.
Learn the material by doing Mahatten books. Do practice questions in the OG. Lastly - and perhaps most imprtantly - do computer adaptive tests to get used to the pacing.
Those Manhattan GMAT practice exams really help. I used Princeton Review to get a feel for the test layout, then Kaplan GMAT 800 to get used to really hard questions, took 6 GMAT exams from Manhattan GMAT, 2 from GMAT Prep, and then OG 11. I went from a 480 to a 640 to a 720. The time I got a 480 I didn't study for it and I didn't finish all the questions--they really ding you for that.
OG 11, OG verbal, OG math Manhattan GMAT’s Preparation Guide series (7 or 9 books, $200) Should be more than enough for you. Sure those $200 might seem like a lot, but think about it. Higher GMAT score might (I said might, not will) get you into better b-school.
I find officials guides to be pretty easy. I've read somewhere that if you keep getting correct answers, questions will get harder and harder. If you aim for GMAT > 700, you'll end up getting hardcore questions and those OG don't cover them well. I've seen a couple of hard math questions and it took me like 10 minutes to solve each one of them out (math major).
That's why www.beatthegmat.com is great for preparing for those hard questions.
As far as Manhattan GMAT’s Preparation Guide, I haven't started it yet, but I've heard questions are harder than from OG and a lot of people recommend that series.
Good luck on GMAT, I am taking mine at the end of May.
ive been going through a bunch of the MGMAT prep guides, they are pretty solid (especially CR, SC, and number properties). Questions seem a bit harder than the harder OG ones
I agree with all the advice above. If you can't afford classes or a private tutor, then self-study using the materials above will probably deliver the most improvement. Make sure you have the TIMING down. dont underestimate that part.
Shameless Plug: I am actually in the process of launching a WallStreetOasis 1-on-1 tutoring business for the GMAT here: //www.wallstreetoasis.com/page/one-on-one-gmat-prep
Right now we are still recruiting tutors so we are only based in New York, but we plan to make our official "launch" across the country in late March once we can cover other cities. Our goal it to bring students elite tutors (only hire tutors that scored in the 99% percentile) for less than the other programs. So if you guys know anybody that scored a 99th Percentile and has tutoring experience please have them e-mail WallStreetOasis.com>[email protected].
Good luck! Patrick
Please help us get to 20,000 members by March 31st and win a free WSO shirt! http://www.printfection.com/wso-store //www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/march-to-20000-members-t-shirt-contest Invite People Here: //www.wallstreetoasis.com/invite
Would recommend buying 2-3 different guides and then just cranking through them. For me, it was just about doing hundreds of questions to figure out what the test was looking for. The end result: 760.
Thanks for all the replies guys, this helps a lot since I am preparing for the GMAT and the GRE's back to back.
gmat prep recommendations (Originally Posted: 05/22/2007)
anyone has any recommended text/resources for preping gmat? thanks
You definitely need to get the Official Guide. Additionally, I suggest Princeton Review over Kaplan.
manhattangmat.com is great
I'm taking Kaplan, it's really helpful.
i didnt take any courses
i got princeton review cracking the gmat for the basics
used the official guide for quant review and for verbal review(2 seperate books, 1 green, 1 purple)
also got gmat 800 for practice on some really tough questions
i did fairly well and an additional site that could help is www.urch.com/forums/gmat
GMAT Prep Materials (Originally Posted: 10/23/2008)
I am planning on taking the GMAT in a few months. Anyone have any suggestions on the best books to buy to help me prepare? Thanks in advance.
Get the 3 OG books (orange, purple, green) + Kaplan 800 Manhattan GMAT also offers some good materials
don't get kaplan.
another recommendation for the official books.
Kaplan is outdated...
Haha, so is your post friend.
GMAT prep (Originally Posted: 10/02/2007)
What is THE "best" GMAT prep course available?
Manhattan GMAT is the most expensive and requires the most hours, but it is certainly the most effective. Attend an info session at least.
You are looking at putting in 15-20 hours a week with the course though.
What about if you don't live near NYC? How does Kaplan stack up?
What about MLIC? Has anyone heard about them?
GMAT PREP ADVICE (Originally Posted: 12/12/2014)
Any advice on how to study for GMATs? Heard GMAT Pill and Manhattan GMAT are best prep materials.
Any feedback would be great. Thanks in advance!
http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/my-gmat-study-plan http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/is-the-gmat-pill-actually-legit http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/manhattan-gmat-in-person-full-cou… http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/studying-for-the-gmat-2014
search button is there for a reason, who let's these jokers on wso?
GMAT - What study courses or books? (Originally Posted: 01/24/2011)
What GMAT study course/ book would you recommend buying?
http://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-GMAT-Set-Strategy-Guides/dp/098417804X/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1295891266&sr=8-8
Also, check out www.gmatclub.com. It's a better resource than this site for all things GMAT
official guides are the way to go - only source of accurate questions
Official Guides are 600-700 level questions at best
Best Way to Study for the GMAT (Originally Posted: 01/24/2014)
Hello everyone, I wanted to see if anyone had advice on the best way to study for the GMAT. I am from a non-target school and have accepted a FT IB analyst job at a mid market bank. I plan on taking the GMAT in the summer before I start, so I have plenty of time but am not sure of the best way to ensure I score well. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
The thread that is literally directly below yours addresses this topic.
Plus, the search feature will take you to about 1000 more. Plus check out GMAT Club and Beat the GMAT for super detailed information.
What Is Your GMAT Prep Strategy (Originally Posted: 07/12/2013)
Hey all. I have decided to go back for my MBA as the current job market suck big time for me. I will be taking the GMAT most likely at the end of August or something in September. My plan is to study 5 days a week for about 6 weeks, 3 or 4 hours each day. I'm hoping to get a score in the mid 700.
For all of you guys who took the GMAT and were very successful, how did you go about studying? Was there a strategy that you went by? Thanks for reading.
I am actually just beginning my studying now as well- we should study together.
Have you taken a practice exam yet?
Take a GMAC practice test for a baseline score. Then crush through the MGMAT books to learn the concepts. Take a couple of MGMAT practice tests during the process. I found the advanced quant book to be helpful.
After this stage, use the official guide for more representative practice problems. They have a guide and also an extra verbal and quant practice problems book. While going through these books, take a couple more MGMAT tests (they have 6 in total).
A few days before the real test, take the second and last GMAC practice test. Wrap up any loose ends and review the IR and essay portions.
Good luck!
GMAT Prep Books - Mechanical Engineering in Greece (Originally Posted: 08/05/2013)
I know that there are many topics about suggested books but I would like to ask again.
I am studying Mechanical Engineering in Greece and the level of Mathematics that we learn to get accepted is really high so I do not know from where I need to start and I also do not know the material of those books.
I read many good reviews about the 290$ bundle of MGMAT but I also read that it is not necessary all that stuff.
Another suggestion is Veritas.
What is your opinion guys and girls? Those books have 800 level questions? I don't have problem to read anything that will give me the score that I want so, What you suggest me to buy and not throw money away?
Why ask again if you've supposedly used the search function, brah?
This is question is asked at least once a month. You're going to get a circle-jerk about what is worth it, what isn't, and whether you need it or not.
Bottom line: MGMAT. You can find lectures online (get creative). Nobody can tell you what you need but yourself.
MGMAT has and always will be the best. That is all I used, and it was enough to get me a good enough GMAT for MBA business schools">M7.
I have some questions about your success admitting to MBA business schools">M7. Check your messages since I cannot yet send PM's/
GMAT Study Materials (Originally Posted: 11/06/2006)
What GMAT study materials did you use? How would you rate them? Strengths and weaknesses of the various providers would be appreciated. Thanks
I thought the Princeton reviews were ok, not great, just ok. Don't think it made much of a difference to be honest.
At the time, when I was preparing for the GMAT I felt that I needed the discipline of a classroom to force me into reading, studying, doing practice tests.
In retrospect, I think I could have faired pretty well on my own and saved $1,200!
I used the official prep book and found it useful in giving me a refresher on a couple items. I would also recommend you download the official prep software and take their practice exams.
Yeah I second that
Buy a Princeton Review book that comes with test software, and use the practice tests from the website
I suggest you to join in scoretip.com or other GMAT forums. Official Guide GMAT 11 edition, Manhattan SC are some of the best. I suggest do not buy kaplan as the test are harder and you will loose confidence.
http://www.scoretop.com/de.htm Try to take VIP member ship.
GMAT Prep Books - Input? (Originally Posted: 11/04/2011)
Hey guys,
I just wanted some input from those who have already taken the GMAT to get their opinion on preparation. I have accepted my FT IB position, but I know I won't have time to study once I'm working; so I want to start studying now. What would you recommend as the best book/study materials? I will eventually take the Princeton Review Prep course, but I wanted to get an early start on my own.
Thanks for the input!
manhattan gmat for sure
Aristotle SC Prep
Definitely Manhattan GMAT for books. It's SC, number properties, and word translation books are amazing!
But why Princeton review? There are way better prep courses...
I used Kaplan, Manhattan, and Knewton and I found that Knewton was the way to go, hands down!
GMAT pill reputable?
i took veritas - it's very good.
used manhattan gmat books as supplement. for critical reasoning I recommend the Powerscore Bible to critical reasoning.
Thanks for the feedback guys!
Barron's motto is to prep you for material much harder than what will be tested. This makes studying take a lot longer and not worth it unless you have a lot of time to devote to it. If you prefer this method then I would recommend checking them out as well, but when you're working probably not the book to pick up as a quick refresher.
GMAT prep websites (Originally Posted: 12/05/2007)
Anyone have an opinion of these prep sites? I'm sure the products might be okay if you need them... what gets me is that some of the profile/resumee's posted are crazy. Extracurricular activities in all different NGO's and other random junk. It's the internet, so I suppose you just have to take it with a grain of salt.
The main difference is that sites like gmatclub seem to make W/S/H an impossible place to actually get accepted to, but on this site people seem to just plan on getting in with a GMAT above 700. Is undergrad/current employer that big of a deal or what? Why the vast difference?
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