The Most Common GMAT Preparation Mistakes that you must Avoid Making

Success in the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) depends not only on working hard but also working smart. Simple mistakes, which can be avoided, are often the reason why many GMAT takers fail to make it. Whether you take GMAT coaching classes or prepare on your own, avoiding these common mistakes will give you better chances of success in the test:

Not investing enough time in preparation

Your GMAT score is your gateway to entry into your dream B-school. Therefore, devoting enough time to preparation is crucial for better results. Different people have different deadlines for preparation. Some require as little as two weeks, while others may need six months. The time you need to spend preparing for GMAT will depend on your requirements. But it is always advisable to spend more time than less. It cannot hurt to give a little extra time to preparing for such an important exam.

Over-preparation            

There are numerous study materials available for GMAT. The GMAC publishes the official guide to the verbal and the quantitative sections. Apart from this, there are several hundred other preparatory materials available if you do a Google search. But which materials would be right for you? Over-stuffing your brain with preparatory materials is only going to confuse you. The best way to prepare is to consult someone who's taken the test and done well. Seek out exactly what materials you need for which portions and prepare accordingly.

Neglecting Weaker Portions

The GMAT has equal verbal and quantitative portions and different test takers may be differently skilled. However, assuming that lack of skill in one section can be compensated by doing well in the other section is going to result in failure. The key here is to prepare well for every section, especially for the sections one is weak at. Doing equally well in every section is crucial for a good score in the test.

Cramming at the Last Minute

Whether you take GMAT coaching or prepare on your own, the worst you can do is cram at the last minute. GMAT does not test knowledge or rote ability. It tests skills that have been acquired throughout your academic life. Hence, trying to fit everything into your head at the last moment isn't going to help you remember anything. Dedicate a number of weeks or months to the preparation instead of stuffing everything at the last minute. This way you're going to remember the portions more easily.

Not preparing according to the test mechanics

GMAT isn't only about skill; it is also about time management. Test takers need to strike a balance between accuracy and time management by knowing how the test works and practising accordingly. While you need to complete each section, you also need to answer each question within a certain time. For example, the mathematics questions need to be answered in about two minutes, failing which you may have time management problems. Make sure you know how the test consumes time and prepare accordingly.

Most GMAT coaching classes help test takers to prepare thoroughly and avoid the common mistakes. But even if you prepare on your own, you should be able to work smart and score well.

Summary

This article takes you through the common mistakes that students make while preparing for their GMAT exam.