GMAC recently announced research results that established a direct correlation between test scores and both the number of hours of test preparation and the number of weeks of prep. - - Really? - - Most of us have lives outside GMAT prep - work, family, sometimes another graduate degree in process. So how about some ways to expand test prep beyond the 1, 2 or 3 hours per day you've already allocated to working with the Course Book and online materials? Since GMAT tests a variety of real world business skills, here are 10 opportunities for sharpening those skills in the real world...
1. Get the check and do the math - there are no calculators or spreadsheets on Test Day. Tune up your arithmetic skills every time you dine out. Total the check in your head, then calculate a tip at 11%, 15% and 20%.
2. Read everything critically - ask yourself why the author used a specific word or introduced an idea. What is the structure of the piece? Identify topic, scope and purpose.
3. Keep your Pocket Reference with you at all times - and review it at every opportunity
4. When someone is pitching you, listen for conclusion, evidence and assumptions.
5. Try the Kaplan Method for Issue Essays when writing your next proposal.
6. Proofread your kids' homework, spouse's reports - initially you can refer to chapters 8 - 17 in the Kaplan GMAT Pocket Reference
7. Get plenty of sleep - recent research shows that much learning takes place only when the brain sets up new neuronal connections DURING SLEEP.
8. Exercise regularly - get those endorphins flowing - you'll have less stress and more energy - critical success factors on Test Day.
9. Check yourself: are you answering the question that was actually asked?
10. Is there a back door to the answer? Thinking outside the box, how can you use what you know to find a quicker alternative route to the correct solution?
I can't wait to get your questions and comments (just click below on "0 Comments" or "Links to this Post" and then "Post a Comment"). In the meantime, here's the ...
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
What do you consider "enough" time to prep for GMAT?
Thanks for stopping by,
Doug
1 comment:
Doug,
This is great advice and I have been incorporating some of this into my everyday life. It's sometimes hard to read critically with out the right amount of time. The math can be expanded to many other situations as well.
Question; are there any free online grammar or math games that you recommend that we can do for 15 mins each day. Games that might be simple and easy but really hone in on developing automatic skills. Word puzzles? Logic games? etc.
-Claude
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