5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Studying for the GMAT Focus Exam

Preparing for the GMAT Focus exam can be a daunting task. After going through the process myself, I realized there are five key things I wish I knew before diving into my study plan. These insights could help you better navigate your GMAT journey and achieve your target score with less stress.

1. Take an Official Practice Exam Before Creating Your Study Plan

One of the most important steps is to assess your starting point. Taking an official practice exam at the beginning will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to prioritize your time effectively. The GMAC offers two free official practice exams, which are invaluable for benchmarking your initial performance.

2. Go at Your Own Pace

Avoid getting caught up in rigid study plans. Everyone learns differently, and it’s essential to find your own rhythm. Forcing yourself to stick to a predefined schedule can lead to rushed learning and burnout. Instead, take your time to fully understand the fundamentals before moving on to advanced topics.

3. Master the Easy Questions First

Don’t underestimate the importance of mastering easy questions. The GMAT scoring algorithm penalizes you more for missing easy questions than for missing hard ones. By focusing on the basics, you’ll build a strong foundation that will serve you well when tackling medium and hard questions later on.

4. Find a Study Partner or Accountability Group

Studying for the GMAT can be an isolating experience. Having a study partner or joining an accountability group can make a world of difference. It helps to have someone to share the journey with, discuss strategies, and motivate each other during challenging times.

5. Start with the Official Guide

With countless study resources available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In my experience, starting with the GMAT Official Guide is the best approach. It provides comprehensive coverage of the exam content and is less overwhelming compared to programs with endless practice problems and video lessons. Remember, the creators of the GMAT know the exam best!

🧠 Final Thoughts

Studying for the GMAT is a marathon, not a sprint. By taking an official practice exam early, pacing yourself, mastering the fundamentals, finding support, and using the right resources, you can set yourself up for success. Good luck on your GMAT journey!