It is very challenging to begin your GMAT preparation process without any experience. As a GMAT aspirant, you might have a pile of questions in your mind. In case you feel this way, you are not the only one. Each year, thousands of students challenge themselves on the GMAT, and a majority of them start with no experience in preparing for standardized tests. The good thing is that it is possible to be successful with the help of a good strategy, discipline, and resources. After reading this blog, you will have a clear picture of how to start GMAT preparation as a complete beginner and build confidence and momentum.
Conduct a Diagnostic Test to Know Your Level
Among the initial steps to take at the start of the GMAT test is a diagnostic test. Although you might be seeing a GMAT question for the first time ever, this test will provide you with a baseline and will reveal exactly where you should focus. Once the test is over, take your time analyzing it. Check the answers that were wrong, and try to find out why they were wrong. The diagnosis will also benefit your study time more, as you will not waste any more time on the subjects you have already learnt.
Strength in Basic Concepts is Crucial
You must realize that you do not need to learn any complicated topics at the beginning. It is important that you first establish a solid foundation in fundamentals.
- In the case of Quantitative Reasoning, it is ideal to master arithmetic, algebraic equations, percentages, and ratios. Also, do not lose hope in case you are not confident in Math, because you will develop the skills gradually over time.
- In Verbal Reasoning, you must train in reading comprehension, grammar basics, and critical reasoning skills. It’s because you need to analyze arguments, interpret passages, and have an overall strong command of the English language.
- The section of Data Insights can appear overwhelming. You will handle data in the form of graphs and tables. As a result, you need to train for the interpretation of images and responding to questions based on mixed sources of data.
Design a Study Plan That You Can Follow
The best online GMAT needs proper time and structure, and inexperienced students find it very difficult to understand. This implies that you must make a practical study schedule so that you can adapt it according to your routine.
If you are fully employed, ensure you spend 3 to 4 hours studying during weekends and 1 to 2 hours during weekdays. For example, schedule 2 days for Quant, 2 days for Verbal, weekends for Data Insights, and mock tests. The study plan designed by you must allow time to learn, practice, review, and conduct periodic mock tests. Divide your aim into weekly goals because you will be motivated and consistent this way.
Select Resources That Fit Your Learning Style
Not every GMAT preparation material is equally good in quality. This means you should begin with a basic list of trusted resources that present concepts in a clear way and provide practice accordingly. Video lessons offer a great advantage to you as a complete beginner because they allow you to study at your own rate. Make sure that your resources align with the latest syllabus of the GMAT. Also, it will keep you away from getting confused due to the wide availability of study materials. It is best if you choose two or three reliable sources.
Combine Smartwork And Hardwork
Answering more questions does not always give the best result because you are not learning anything new from them. After every practice session, take a look at your mistakes and learn to figure out what went wrong. Keep a log of errors, so that you can note when your performance is not up to mark and record the types of errors. This will enable you to detect repetitive errors and rectify them over time. Moreover, keep revising old concepts rather than studying them once and forgetting them later. Your GMAT skills will grow through regular practice of similar types of questions.
Manage your Time for the GMAT
When it comes to the best GMAT preparation online for beginners, time management is one of the most challenging issues. You will get approximately two minutes per question in every section. As a result, beginners lack the required accuracy and speed, which forces them to miss out on questions. It is thus important to stay on top of time constraints from the start of your GMAT preparation. However, the ideal way is to start with a smaller number of questions to answer in a certain time period, and then move on to full-length sections. This assists you in gaining momentum for making fast choices in the examination.
It will also help you learn when to skip a question to attempt later. A good strategy is flagging difficult questions and returning to them later if there’s time left.
Recreate A Realistic Exam Environment During Mock Tests
To build stamina and evaluate how well you have prepared yourself for the GMAT, mock tests are vital. They help you discover your weak spots, practise your timing, and improve your strategy for test day. A good approach is to attempt one mock test every 2 weeks during the last month of the GMAT preparation. Write an analysis of each of the tests you perform and add to your error log. Moreover, you should not be concerned that you are not getting a higher score because practising will make you sharper over time.
Why Jamboree India is a Trusted Choice for Every GMAT Aspirant
When you are unsure about your preparation, you need to choose a reputable GMAT training program. This is where Jamboree India plays a crucial role in GMAT preparation classes for everyone, including beginners. Thousands of students are training with Jamboree India and have attained massive success in their GMAT examinations.
Jamboree is unique because it focuses on conceptual clarity and an individualized mentorship approach. Their classes prepare students on all levels to pass their tests. You will get the advantages of timed full-length mock tests and personal doubt solving with Jamboree. Along with guiding you in academics, Jamboree provides admissions counseling so that you can get the best out of your GMAT score.
The Bottom Line
The GMAT may appear to be very confusing when you are new to competitive examinations. However, having the right attitude and dedication, success is not impossible. You need to learn the format of the exam and establish a solid background in all the GMAT sections. Make a practical study schedule, revise your mistakes frequently, and attempt mock tests to gain confidence.
Also, choosing Jamboree for GMAT preparation is the right choice for beginners. It shows that as a beginner, you are determined to be the best among thousands of aspirants.