Achieving a 700+ Score on the GMAT exam is a challenging but attainable goal with the right strategy, mindset, and dedication. Below, we outline a comprehensive guide based on the personal experience of student who achieved it and proven techniques to help you excel. This student figured out how to study for GMAT and ended up scoring an impressive 700+ score!
Set Clear Goals and Commit to the Process
- Target Score: Start with a realistic target score based on your desired schools. For example, aiming for a 685 score on the exam may lead you to surpass it with proper preparation.
- Time Commitment: Be prepared to dedicate substantial time—500+ hours of study is common for significant improvement.
- Mindset: Adopt a belief that the GMAT is “easy” and treat challenges as opportunities to improve. Confidence can play a big role in your success. Belive that you will score 700+ on the GMAT exam
Take Diagnostic Tests and Analyse Results
- Begin with an official GMAT mock exam to establish a baseline. For example, starting scores might look like:
- Verbal: 99th percentile
- Quant: 25th percentile
- Data Insights (DI): 96th percentile
- Analyze your strengths and weaknesses to determine where to focus your efforts.
Focus on Weaknesses and Allocate Time Wisely
Verbal Section
- If you’re naturally strong in Verbal (e.g., humanities background), maintain your skills by practicing critical reasoning and reading comprehension.
- Key strategy: Identify conclusions and premises in arguments to simplify the process.
Quant Section
- Quant is often the easiest area to improve. Moving from the 25th percentile to the 92nd percentile is possible with focused practice.
- Study 8th-grade math concepts (e.g., algebra, geometry, number properties).
- Drill problem sets and prioritize understanding over memorization.
Data Insights (DI)
- Practice interpreting charts, graphs, and data tables.
- Avoid mistakes by carefully reading all parts of the question to catch critical details.
Use Quality Resources
- Target Test Prep (TTP): This platform is highly recommended for structured learning and drills.
- Official Practice Exams: Take all six official GMAT mock exams under timed, test-like conditions to simulate the real experience.
Practice, Review, and Repeat
Mock Exam Strategy
- Take 12+ practice exams to track progress. Example results might progress as follows:
- Early mocks: 625-685, with weaker Quant scores.
- Later mocks: 695-735, with strong Quant and Verbal scores.
Break Down Mistakes
- Spend time reviewing every mistake and understanding why you got it wrong.
- Create a log of errors and revisit similar problems until confident.
Handle Setbacks and Stay Resilient
- Life happens. A broken leg and a month off didn’t derail the journey—it provided more time for review and mock tests.
- Use setbacks as opportunities to refine your strategy and build resilience.
Adopt a Winning Test-Day Mindset
- Tell yourself the GMAT is “easy” to reduce stress. View it as a simple test rather than a monumental challenge.
- Enter the test center confident in your preparation and treat the exam as just another practice session.
Key Takeaways for Success
- Consistency is Key: Achieving a 99th percentile score isn’t about being a genius—it’s about putting in the work that others won’t.
- Ignore Negativity: Disregard naysayers and maintain focus on your goals.
- Simulate Real Test Conditions: Every practice test should mimic the actual GMAT experience.
- Stay Positive: Even if you face setbacks, persistence will pay off.
How to Study for GMAT : Sample Study Timelines
First three Months (1-3):
- Diagnostic test and focus on foundational concepts (Quant and DI).
Next 3 Months (4-6):
- Intensive practice with problem sets and targeted reviews.
- Take 4-6 mock exams to evaluate progress.
Final 3 Months (7-10):
- Refine strategies for weaker sections.
- Take remaining mock exams and focus on stamina and timing.
Final Words of Encouragement
Remember, scoring a 700+ on the GMAT exam is about discipline, strategy and perseverance. It’s not reserved for the selected few but for those willing to put in the effort. Whether you’re juggling work, setbacks, or self-doubt, stay the course and keep pushing forward. Success is within reach!
To go from your question of how to Study for GMAT to actually achieving the goal, one will need a structured approach along with guided help from those who have done it before, check these GMAT examples of students:
And so on!