Decided to sit for the GMAT exam, but don’t know how to prepare? You’re at the right place! We’ll equip you with step-by-step strategy, tools, and resources essential for your GMAT preparation, so, you won’t ever need to ask “How to prepare for GMAT?” again. 

Whether you’re a fresh graduate aiming for an MBA or a seasoned professional looking to advance your career, this guide will help demystify the GMAT preparation process. Let’s get right in!

How to Prepare for GMAT: Step-by-Step Plan

While the preparation process and eventually being able to crack the GMAT exam may seem like a tough nut to crack right now, a structured study plan and consistent practices can help you achieve your target score. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on “How to prepare for GMAT?”:

Step 1: Understand the GMAT Exam Format

Before starting your preparation, familiarize yourself with the GMAT structure and the type of questions that appear frequently in the exam. The GMAT comprises four sections:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 1 essay | 30 minutes
• Integrated Reasoning (IR): 12 questions | 30 minutes
• Quantitative Section: 32 questions | 62 minutes
• Verbal Section: 36 questions | 65 minutes

The total test time is 3 hours and 7 minutes, with two optional 8-minute breaks. Understanding the GMAT format will help you better manage your time and develop a solid strategy for each section.

Step 2: Take a Diagnostic Test

Begin by attempting a full-length practice test. The goal is to assess your current level and identify your strengths and weaknesses. Use this score as a baseline to set a realistic target score and create your study plan. 

Step 3: Set Your Target Score

Research the average GMAT scores of your target business schools. Set a goal score that is competitive for these programs, typically aiming for at least 20-30 points above the average. This will give you a buffer and increase your chances of admission.

Step 4: Create a Study Schedule

Develop a structured study plan based on your available time and target test date. Most test-takers spend 2-3 months preparing, dedicating at least 15-20 hours per week. 

Try to allocate ample time for each GMAT section, focusing more on your weak areas. 

Step 5: Gather Study Materials

Invest in high-quality GMAT prep resources to guide your study:

• Official GMAT Guides from GMAC: These provide the most accurate representation of the test.
• Reputable Third-Party Books: For additional practice and strategies. (More on this later!)
• Online Resources and Practice Question Banks: Websites like GMAT Club offer extensive practice questions and forums for support.
• GMAT Prep Courses: Consider enrolling in a prep course if you need more guidance.

Step 6: Master the Basics First

Review foundational concepts for each section to build a strong base. For the quantitative section, start with arithmetic and algebra. For Verbal, focus on grammar rules and reading comprehension. This way, build up a solid foundation for each topic first. Know the concepts – don’t directly jump to solving complex problems. 

Step 7: Practice and Review

Consistent practice is key to getting a good GMAT score. Therefore, incorporate daily practice sessions into your routine. 

Take timed section tests weekly to assess your progress and identify areas for improvement. Simulate exam conditions by taking full-length practice tests every two weeks. 

Thoroughly review all questions, especially incorrect answers, to understand your mistakes and learn from them.

Step 8: Focus on Weak Areas

Continually reassess your progress and focus on improving your weak areas. Adjust your study plan to allocate more time to the sections or topics where you need the most improvement. 

In short, Study, Practice, Analyze, and Repeat!

How Can You Do GMAT Preparation at Home?

How to prepare for GMAT at home, you ask? All the nine steps we listed above apply here!

While getting paid coaching may help better structure your GMAT preparation process with the targeted tools and resources, you still need to stick to “Study, Practice, Analyze, and Repeat” for the desired results. So, if you’re confident you can do all that on your own, go for it! 

Start by creating a dedicated study space. Ensure it’s quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Stock it with necessary materials (book, notepad, calculator, etc.) so everything you need while studying is there at a hand’s distance. 

Implement a structured routine. Use productivity tools like Pomodoro to schedule your study hours and breaks. Use website blockers and turn off your device notifications to manage your distractions. 

If possible, join an online GMAT test series for regular exam-like practice. 

Remember, the key is to maintain discipline and consistency in your study routine, even without the structure of a classroom setting. 

With dedication and the right approach, GMAT preparation at home can be just as effective as traditional methods.

Top 5 GMAT Preparation Books You Must Have

When preparing for the GMAT, having the right study materials is crucial. Here are the top 5 GMAT preparation books that should be in every test-taker library:

Conclusion

Does this article answer your question, “How to prepare for GMAT?” If yes, follow all the steps diligently and you’ll have a GMAT score above 700 (fingers crossed!). Remember, consistency, dedication, and strategic planning are key to achieving your desired score. With the right approach and sufficient practice, you can effectively master the GMAT and take a significant step toward your MBA aspirations.