GMAT Preparation

Introduction to GMAT Preparation

The vast majority of accredited MBA programs (and other master's-level business degrees) require the Graduate Management Admissions Test, or the GMAT. While similar in format to most standardized tests, the GMAT has unique ways of asking certain questions, making adequate test preparation more than just a matter of a good night's rest. Your GMAT score will last usually for five years, so quality preparation up front saves time, money, and frustration.

GMAT Preparation

How should I begin studying?

Studying for the GMAT may begin with a textbook purchase, a full-immersion classroom or distance learning experience, or a free sample test. Because of the highly competitive nature of the exam-scored anywhere from 200-800, with low- to mid-700s needed for the best schools-many students aiming at top-level universities will consider individual tutoring to ensure that they perform the best they can.

What types of questions should I expect?

As with most standardized exams, the GMAT includes an analytical writing portion. While some schools may disregard this score or consider it less heavily, your testing skills should be well-rounded before you sit the exam. Be sure as well to know how your target schools or programs will treat the writing portion. If they give it greater weight, be sure to practice outlining, writing, and thinking as it pertains to possible test questions. If, however, they do not, gear your training elsewhere. Verbal and mathematical sections offer sufficient challenges on their own.

What should I expect from the verbal sections?

In the verbal section, questions are composed of three types, displayed at random throughout the hour dedicated to testing verbal skills. These are sentence correction, critical reasoning, and reading comprehension. Schools with a high proportion of students without English as their first language will take into account lower scores that result from lower performance on the verbal. Test preparation courses for the GMAT will focus on grammar, mechanics, reading strategies, and logical analysis.

What should I expect from the math sections?

The logic basis in the verbal section is also tested in mathematics, which presents two types of questions: problem solving and data sufficiency. Both require basic mathematics skills, but present basic problems in complex settings. Data sufficiency questions are unique to the GMAT, asking you to approve neither, either, or both of a pair of corollaries to a given mathematical statement. For that question type alone, many students opt for a more extensive GMAT preparation course. Whatever the case, considering your target university, desired score, and past test-taking experience is vital in preparing for the GMAT.

How is my final score calculated?

While the GMAT does not penalize for guessing (an algorithm calculates the final score, taking statistical anomalies into account), it does penalize lack of effort. The test is computer-adaptive, meaning that the test assesses your performance as it goes, giving you harder or easier questions depending on your performance. Your final score takes that into account. Because of that, questions that are left blank receive a heavier penalty than those that receive an honest effort. With that in mind, you should focus your studies on being able to approach the various question types. Even if you do not answer everything right, completing the section helps your eventual score.

GMAT Preparation

Student Center > Test Prep > GMAT

MBA.com - Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC)
Official site of the GMAT
Sections include: See Yourself as an MBA ; Find Your Program ; Take the GMAT [Register, The Essentials, Tools to Help You Prepare] ; Apply Effectively ; Make Your Decision ; MBA.COM Store.

GMAT Books, Software, and Courses

GMAT Classroom Course

This unique option combines the power of live instruction with the convenience of online prep. This "best-of-both-worlds" approach provides you with structure and flexibility. The result? A higher score.

This option puts you in control of a dynamic, interactive learning environment where you set the pace. You'll score higher with Kaplan's results-oriented review, practice, and strategies ? all accessible anytime, anywhere.

With this online option, you can access the expertise of Kaplan's writing experts. These professionals grade your Analytical Writing Assessment essays using ETS's scoring standards and provide you with insights into writing a high-scoring essay.

-Dynamic instruction from one of Kaplan's expert teachers.
-A refresher review of the fundamental concepts of basic algebra, arithmetic, and geometry.
-Effective practice on every basic math question type, plus Kaplan's exclusive strategies to help you score the most points possible.

GMAT Advanced Math Workshop

-Dynamic instruction from one of Kaplan's expert teachers.-A refresher review of the most difficult math concepts, including advanced algebra, arithmetic, probability, standard deviation, and geometry.-Effective practice on every advanced math question type.

GMAT Critical Reasoning Workshop
-Dynamic instruction from one of Kaplan's expert teachers.
-A refresher review of the most advanced concepts and methods needed to successfully answer logical reasoning questions, including evidence, conclusion, and assumption.
-Effective practice on every question type

GMAT Reading Comprehension Workshop
-Dynamic instruction from one of Kaplan's expert teachers.
-A refresher review of the methods needed to successfully answer reading comprehension questions, including reading for points.
-Effective practice on a variety of passage types.

GMAT QBank 500
Kaplanís GMAT Quiz Banks are innovative, breakthrough products that allow you to custom design your own GMAT practice quizzesó24/7 from the convenience of your own home. Build quizzes by question type and content area; review your choices with detailed, written explanations; and track your progress.

From the world leader in test prep... Kaplan's GMAT Verbal Workbook comes complete with a targeted review of all the tested material on the verbal section of the GMAT, plus our exclusive test-taking strategies to help you maximize your score on every question type.

GMAT 800
Kaplan's GMAT 800 provides the extra tactics and advanced practice you need to help you get the absolute maximum score. Using this book with the practice tests and intensive review of Kaplan's bestselling GMAT guide, you can get the perfect score.

Getting in to MBA programs has become more and more competitive. If you're looking for an edge that will help improve your chances of admission to the schools of your choice, then this book is exactly what you need to define and refine yourself as one of today's top business school candidates.

Get everything you need to successfully prepare for the GMAT, LSAT, and GRE exams with this incredible deluxe package. Only Kaplan gives you a personalized plan based on your schedule, strength, skills, and more. You'll build your confidence and skills and score higher.

Higher Score GMAT/GRE/LSAT -- 15 user Lab Pack
This powerful 3-CD set provides your students with intensive preparation for the GRE, GMAT, and LSAT - all of it based on their skills and abilities. With personalized performance feedback, students know the exact areas on which to focus.