To gain admission to a graduate business school, you must first take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). It is a test to measure your verbal, writing and mathematical skills. The key to getting the best score on your GMAT is to understand how the exam is organized and prepare for the types of questions. The GMAT scoring bracket goes from 200 to 800 points on a cumulative scale and is not broken down by section.
Test Timing
Take the test either while you are in college or shortly after you graduate, since the concepts are still fresh in your memory. You do not have to focus on relearning everything you learned due to the passage of time. Your GMAT scores are good for five years, so even if you do not intend to apply to graduate school right away and instead focus on getting a job, taking the test early still benefits you.
Understand the Computer Adaptive Testing Method
The GMAT is unique from pre-college standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT, in that it asks you average-level questions and bases subsequent questions on how well you did initially. If you get a significant number wrong, the question difficulty decreases, while if you do better, the question difficulty increases. Since the testing method is so different, take your time in answering questions, especially those you are unsure of. You can't skip questions and go back to answer them later on, so focus on the questions as they are presented to you.
Essay Format
The GMAT includes an essay section, called the Analytical Writing Assessment, where you must write out two essays. One is an analysis of an argument and the other is analysis of an issue. The computer grades your essay against a database of hundreds of other essays, using a very strict algorithm. The essay section does not include a spell check feature, so pay close attention to your form. Always back up all arguments in your essay with reasons and supporting evidence, using transitional words and phrases as you go from one idea to another.
Data Sufficiency
Data sufficiency is a style of question that you probably have not seen on any other standardized test. You get a question followed by two statements and must determine whether one statement, both statements together or neither statement answers the question. You do not need to answer the question but instead focus on improving your analytical skills. Use the process of elimination when evaluating statements. Only use information the GMAT presents to you in each question to consider whether you can answer it with the two statements.
Practice Tests
The best way to prepare for the GMAT format is to actually take practice tests and compare your scores with your personal goals. Taking the practice test allows you to evaluate which areas you need to focus on to improve your score and gets you comfortable with the testing format.
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