Studying for the Gmat: the Best and the Worst

Studying for the GMAT really isn’t too bad. Although it may seem like a daunting task at first, your undergraduate degree and related activities should have adequately prepared you for the test, and really you should probably look at studying for the test as reviewing what you already know rather than learning something completely new.

The Official Guide for GMAT Review

Published by ETS, the people who make the test, this is definitely the best study book available. You can order the book used from Half. com for just over $20. The book uses past test questions, and many times the questions on the GMAT are similar to the previous tests; thus, you may find that many of things you study will appear on the test almost word for word. The practice test software is essential for learning to take the test well and quickly.

Kaplan

Kaplan offers both a book and a class to help you prepare for the GMAT. The test is a great resource and certainly a needed addition to the ETS book. There are several hints and tricks that the test makers don’t want to reveal, but that Kaplan happily shares.

Now, about the classes. I know Kaplan will hate me for this, but I just don’t think they’re worth your money. The GMAT is a fairly straightforward test and spending thousands on a class will probably not make that much difference in your grade. If, however, you are a student who has difficulty reading something and learning it well, then the class may benefit you. Consider your own style and study strategies and make the best decision for you.

Princeton Review

The Princeton Review also publishes a study book for the GMAT. Their books are truly exceptional and a must have as you get ready for the test. If it sounds like three books is just too much to buy, split it with a friend. You buy the Kaplan and they buy the Princeton Review or vice versa. Both of you should get the official guide, though, since it’s really your best source for real test questions.

Pace Yourself

As you study for the GMAT, pace yourself. Don’t do it all in one weekend, but the test isn’t hard enough to warrant a year of study either. Keep yourself on target by doing a chapter or two a week and maybe a practice test over the course of a month or two.

Study with Friends

Studying with friends can make all the difference in your test score. You may not get as much done at a time when studying with friends, but you will be likely to study more often when you’re having fun. You can also put together an official study group and see if one of your professors will help you study. They want you to do well as it reflects on them too, so don’t be afraid to ask – there’s a good chance that they’ll say, “Yes.”

Final Thoughts

Buy the best books, pace yourself, and study with friends, preferably in a professor-supervised study group. Even though it may sound too simple, that’s all you really need to be successful on the GMAT.