If you’ve decided to take the GMAT online, you’ve already taken the first big step toward your dream B-school. But here’s the truth, it’s not just about studying hard. It’s about studying smart. The GMAT is a test of how you think under pressure, not just what you know. But that process is now being done remotely, so you need a plan for this format as well.
This guide teaches you, with straightforward tips on how to adequately prepare and not make the mistakes that many made when walking into the test feeling confident on your first attempt.
Understand the GMAT Online First
Know exactly what you are getting yourself into before you start cracking the practice questions. The duration of GMAT online is 2 hours 15 minutes, having one optional break of 10 min.
It has three sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning – 21 questions and you get 45 minutes to finish them. Test your Master on fundamental maths problems: algebra, arithmetic, problem-solving.
- Verbal Reasoning– 23 questions in 45 Minutes. Focuses on reading comprehension and critical reasoning.
- Data Insights – 20 questions in 45 minutes. Tests your ability to understand and interpret data from charts, graphs, and tables.
The scoring scale is from 205 to 805, and all three sections carry equal weight.
Set a Clear Target Score
Before starting your prep, research the average GMAT scores for the schools you want. Many top schools look for an almost 705+ score. Having a clear goal assists you focus your study plan and track progress.
Create a Study Plan That Fits Your Schedule
A random study approach won’t make it. Make a schedule and stick to it. Keep your sessions short of 45 to 60 minutes at a time. This keeps your focus sharp and prevents burnout.
For example:
- Day 1: Quant practice in the morning, Verbal in the evening.
- Day 2: Data Insights practice, plus review of mistakes from Day 1.
- Day 3: Mixed mock test to keep all sections fresh.
Use the Right Study Material
Not all prep books or videos are made equal. Choose resources that match your preference. A GMAT online video course can help you understand tricky topics faster. Videos are great because you can pause, rewind, and learn at your own pace.
Master Each Section Separately
1. Quantitative Reasoning
Focus on your weak areas-whether that’s algebra, percentages, or word problems. Practice mental calculations to save time. Avoid overcomplicating questions; the simplest method often works best.
2. Verbal Reasoning
Improve your reading speed without losing comprehension. For critical reasoning, always find the conclusion first before looking at answer choices.
3. Data Insights
Get used to reading tables and charts quickly. Practice identifying trends without overthinking. Learn shortcuts for interpreting graphs so you can save precious minutes.
Simulate the Real Test Environment
Taking the GMAT online is different from practicing on paper. Use your computer for mocks. Sit in a quiet room. Time yourself exactly as in the real exam. This trains your brain to stay focused for the full duration.
Review Your Mistakes Thoroughly
After each practice test, spend as much time reviewing as you did taking it. Understand why you got a question wrong. Was it a silly error, a time issue, or a concept gap? Fix the cause so you don’t repeat it.
Balance Speed and Accuracy
The GMAT is adaptive, meaning the difficulty changes based on your answers. Don’t rush through questions. Also, don’t get stuck on one question for too long either. If you’re unsure, make an educated guess and move on.
Practice With Official GMAT Questions
The only proper way to get a sense of real exam style is through the use of official prep material. This is exactly the format and difficulty you can expect on test day.
Stay Calm on Test Day
The GMAT online is a proctored exam, meaning you have someone watching you through a webcam. Make sure your workspace is clean and distraction-free. Check your internet and equipment the day before. On the day, take deep breaths before starting each section.
Consider Guided Learning
Some students prefer studying alone, while others do better with structured guidance. If you’re the latter, GMAT live classes can be a great choice. They allow you to ask questions instantly and learn from others’ doubts too.
Why Your First Attempt Matters
Many candidates think they can “just try” the first time and do better later. But remember, you can only take the GMAT a limited number of times per year. Preparing properly for your first attempt gives you the best shot at a top score without wasting time or money.
Final Preparation Week Tips
- Focus on revision, not learning new topics.
- Take at least two full-length mock tests.
- Sleep well and eat light meals.
- Keep your study hours consistent.
Conclusion
The GMAT online might be shorter and more flexible, but it’s still a tough challenge. The success lies in the understanding of the format and creating an achievable study schedule followed by consistent practice through enhanced resources. The important point is to speed up without making too many mistakes yet trying to keep calm under time pressure. Approach your first try as your best attempt, because it might become the best shot.
Whether you prepare alone or with a coach, make sure your prep matches the online test style. With discipline, practice, and smart strategies, you can crack it.
Jamboree offers expert-led training, the best GMAT institute experience, mock tests, and personalized strategies. Start your journey with Jamboree today, and get one step closer to your dream B-school.