A GMAT Study Guide can set you on the path to success.
- Understand the GMAT structure: Learn the sections and what each tests.
- Master effective preparation strategies: Discover study plans and prep methods.
- Find the best resources: Explore top question banks and prep tools.
Ace your GMAT with this GMAT Study Guide, crafted to empower your journey.
What Is the GMAT?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test used by business schools to evaluate candidates for advanced study in business and management. The GMAT is an essential component of the admissions process, enabling schools to assess the academic readiness and potential of applicants.
Who Needs to Take the GMAT?
Individuals aiming to pursue a graduate degree in business or management should consider taking the GMAT. Thousands of business schools globally require or prefer GMAT scores as part of their application process. A competitive GMAT score demonstrates your commitment to your education and readiness for the rigorous MBA curriculum.
Why Is the GMAT Important?
The GMAT measures skills that are critical for success in business school, such as:
- Verbal Reasoning: Assessing your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Evaluating your ability to reason quantitatively, solve quantitative problems, and interpret graphic data.
- Analytical Writing: Testing your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas.
- Integrated Reasoning: Measuring your skill in analyzing data and interpreting information presented in multiple formats.
Business schools use your GMAT score as a predictor of your ability to succeed in their programs. A high score can significantly enhance your application, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving abilities.
What Does the GMAT Cover?
The GMAT consists of several sections, each designed to test specific competencies:
Quantitative Section
The Quantitative section includes 21 multiple-choice questions, focusing on Problem Solving. This section evaluates your ability to reason mathematically, solve quantitative problems, and interpret data.
Verbal Section
The Verbal section contains 23 multiple-choice questions covering Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning. This section assesses your ability to read and comprehend written material, reason and evaluate arguments, and correct sentences to standard written English.
Integrated Reasoning Section
The Data Insights section features 20 multiple-choice questions. It covers:
- Multi-Source Reasoning
- Graphics and Table Interpretation
- Two-Part Analysis
- Data Sufficiency
Analytical Writing Section
For the Analytical Writing section, you are required to write a single essay evaluating your capability to think critically and communicate complex ideas effectively.
Each section contributes to your overall GMAT score, reflecting your preparedness for the challenges of business school.
How Is the GMAT Scored?
Understanding how the GMAT is scored will help you focus your preparation efforts.
Scaled Scores
Each GMAT section (Quantitative, Verbal, and Integrated Reasoning) is scored separately, and these scores are then combined to create a composite score.
Percentiles
Percentile rankings are crucial because they show how your score compares to other test-takers. For example, a score in the 75th percentile means you scored better than 75% of all other test-takers.
Composite Score
The composite score ranges from 205 to 805 for the GMAT Focus Edition. This score is a combination of your results from the Quantitative, Verbal, and Integrated Reasoning sections.
Why Percentiles Matter
Percentile rankings provide a deeper understanding of your performance relative to others, which is important for assessing your competitiveness in the business school admissions process.
How To Take the GMAT
Taking the GMAT involves several steps, from registration to choosing your test date and location.
Registration Process
You can register for the GMAT online, by phone, postal mail, or via fax. The registration fee is $275 in most locations.
Online Registration
- Create an account on the official GMAT website (mba.com).
- Complete your profile with your full name, email, address, phone number, gender, date of birth, and nationality.
- Schedule your exam by selecting a test date and location.
- Pay the registration fee using a debit or credit card.
Phone Registration
Call the customer service representative who will assist you in filling out the registration form over the phone.
Postal Mail Registration
Fill out the GMAT Appointment Scheduling Form and mail it to Pearson VUE with the required payment information.
Choosing Test Dates and Locations
It’s important to schedule your test well in advance to ensure you meet the application deadlines for your chosen business schools. The GMAT is offered year-round at various testing centers worldwide. Additionally, the GMAT can be taken online, providing flexibility for those unable to access a physical testing center.
Accommodations for Disabilities
If you need accommodations due to a disability, you can request special arrangements during the registration process. Be sure to provide the necessary documentation to support your request.
Starting your GMAT journey involves careful planning and understanding of the exam structure, scoring, and preparation strategies. By following these guidelines, you can effectively navigate the registration process and set a strong foundation for your GMAT preparation.
GMAT Preparation Tips
Preparing for the GMAT requires careful planning and a strategic approach. Whether you’re studying between work commitments or full-time, these tips can help you manage your time efficiently and target areas that will boost your score.
Develop a Study Plan
Creating a study plan is crucial for covering all GMAT sections thoroughly.
- Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve in each study session.
- Segment Your Time: Allocate specific times for each GMAT section: Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights, and Analytical Writing.
- Include Breaks: Avoid burnout by incorporating breaks. Short, frequent breaks can increase productivity.
- Review Regularly: Periodically review what you’ve learned to ensure retention.
Utilize Practice Tests
Practice tests are vital to familiarize yourself with the exam format and time constraints.
- Simulate Exam Conditions: Take full-length, timed tests under exam conditions. This will enhance your stamina and time management.
- Analyze Results: After each test, review your answers to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Adjust Focus Areas: Based on your performance, adjust your study focus to improve weaker areas.
Balance Study with Other Commitments
If you’re juggling work or other responsibilities, balancing study time is essential.
- Prioritize Tasks: Identify your most critical tasks and focus on them first.
- Establish a Consistent Routine: Stick to a routine to make studying a habit.
- Use Commute Time Wisely: Use travel time for lighter study tasks, such as reviewing flashcards or listening to educational podcasts.
Question Banks and Prep Toolkit
Choosing the right study resources can make a significant difference in your GMAT preparation.
Recommended Question Banks
Quality question banks provide a variety of practice problems that mimic the actual GMAT exam.
- Official GMAT Prep: Utilize the question banks and practice tests available on the official GMAT website.
- Manhattan Prep: Another excellent resource offering thousands of practice questions and detailed explanations.
- Magoosh: Known for its comprehensive question bank, video explanations, and progress tracking features.
Top GMAT Prep Books
Books are an invaluable resource in your GMAT arsenal.
- The Official Guide for GMAT Review: This book offers real past GMAT questions and answers, making it an essential resource.
- Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus: Provides detailed content review and numerous practice questions, plus an online resource library.
- Princeton Review’s Cracking the GMAT: Known for its strategic approach and useful practice tests.
Online Tools and Courses
Online tools and courses can provide structure and additional resources for self-study.
- Khan Academy: Offers free tutorials on math topics relevant to the GMAT.
- e-GMAT: Focuses on non-native English speakers with extensive courses on both verbal and quantitative sections.
- GMAT Club: An online community with forums, test strategies, and additional practice questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the GMAT
Many candidates have common questions about the GMAT. Here are some answers to help demystify the process.
How Often Can I Take the GMAT?
You can take the GMAT once every 16 days, up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, and no more than eight times in total. Retakes can help improve your score, but remember to prepare adequately before each attempt.
How Long Are GMAT Scores Valid?
GMAT scores are valid for five years. This means you can use your score to apply to business schools for up to five years after taking the test.
Can I Cancel My Score?
Yes, you can cancel your GMAT score immediately after taking the test if you’re not satisfied. Additionally, you have the option to cancel your score within 72 hours after your scheduled exam.
What Is a Good GMAT Score?
A “good” GMAT score depends on your target schools and programs. Generally, a score above 700 is considered competitive. Check the average scores of admitted students at your target schools to set a realistic goal.
How Do I Send My GMAT Scores to Schools?
You can designate up to five schools to receive your GMAT scores for free immediately after the test. Additional reports can be sent for a fee through the GMAT website.
Conclusion
Embarking on your GMAT journey with an informed and strategic approach sets you up for success. By following this GMAT Study Guide, utilizing key resources, and maintaining a structured study schedule, you can enhance your readiness and confidence. Prepare thoroughly, stay consistent, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired GMAT score. Best of luck!