Scoring a 705 on your first GMAT attempt is no small feat—and doing it in just four months of preparation makes it even more impressive. This Redditor’s post outlines a strategy that’s simple, focused, and—most importantly—realistic.
If you’re juggling a full-time job or don’t want to waste time on inefficient prep, this breakdown offers a great blueprint for building your study plan.
The Starting Point
The test-taker began their preparation with a clear goal: to maximise study efficiency over four months. Recognising the importance of a structured approach, they focused on building a solid foundation before tackling advanced materials. This was their first attempt
Study Strategy
1. Prioritize Official Materials
- Official Guides (OGs): These were the primary resources, providing authentic practice questions that mirror the actual exam.
- Conceptual Clarity: While the initial text in OGs was deemed less helpful, the practice questions were invaluable for understanding test patterns.
2. Structured Study Plan
- Diagnostic Assessment: Identifying strengths and weaknesses early on allowed for targeted studying.
- Focused Practice: Emphasis was placed on mastering one topic at a time, ensuring depth over breadth.
- Regular Review: Consistent revisiting of challenging areas helped solidify understanding
Time Management
Balancing preparation with other responsibilities was crucial.
- Weekdays: Approximately 2 hours of study each day
- Weekends: Around 6 hours per day, allowing for deeper dives into complex topics.
This schedule ensured steady progress without leading to burnout.
Key Takeaways
- Consistency is Key: Regular, focused study sessions proved more effective than sporadic, lengthy ones.
- Quality Over Quantity: Engaging deeply with official materials yielded better results than using a multitude of resources.
- Self-Awareness: Understanding personal learning styles and adjusting strategies accordingly made the study process more efficient.
Final Thoughts
This journey underscores that with a disciplined approach and the right resources, achieving a 705 on the GMAT in four months is attainable. For those embarking on their own prep journey, consider:
- Setting Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve and by when.
- Choosing the Right Materials: Stick to reputable resources that align with your learning style.
- Maintaining Balance: Ensure your study plan is sustainable alongside other life commitments.
Remember, it’s not just about studying hard but studying smart