The quantitative section of GMAT is known be one of the hardest among standardized tests. However, doing well in this section is imperative for your admission chances in a top notch b-school. The key thing to remember is that the quant section concepts are not very difficult. It is the way these concepts are presented that put the test takers off. Students who prepare well for the section can easily achieve a pretty high score in this section.
Before you face the preparation head on, it would be a good idea to understand the structure of the GMAT quant section. The section contains 37 questions and lasts for 75 minutes. You are tested on two main question types. The first one is problem solving where math problems are asked along with multiple choice answers. The second type is data sufficiency which requires a lot of preparation time from the student. As you know that the GMAT is question adaptive – your questions get harder with every correct answer.
You need to master every concept that is tested in the GMAT exam. To understand all the concepts, get a copy of the GMAT Official Guide made by GMAC. Stick to reputed names for other GMAT quant prep resources.
What else you can do inside qs leap ?
Once you understand the concepts you need to work upon, you are ready to take the GMAT quant preparation head on. The main areas that are tested in the GMAT include arithmetic, algebra and geometry. These areas can be mastered only with good practice time. Devise a good study schedule and spend a lot of time solving math problems. If you are coming back after a break, you will have to spend more time brushing up your basic skills. Study the concept and solve as many practice problems as possible. When you make mistakes, analyze your answers and ensure that you don’t repeat them again.
When you are halfway through the preparation stage, start taking practice tests. Practice tests are an invaluable tool in the hands of the test takers. Practice tests give you an idea to solidify your strengths and gain insights into your weaknesses. Take these tests under strictly timed conditions. Review your answer sheets thoroughly. Work on your weaknesses by solving more problems from this area.
For the data sufficiency questions, take enough time to become comfortable with the question types and format. Make it a habit to read the statements very carefully, even during practice problems. Remember that the objective here is to not find the answer, it is to see whether you have enough information to find the answer.
The last month before the exam, concentrate only on your weak areas and build confidence around them. Also, take at least 3-4 practice tests to be really on top of your game on the D-Day.
