Exam Prep 101

In this episode, Stacey Koprince from Manhattan Prep discusses the essential considerations when preparing to take a business school entrance exam. Stacey breaks down her top prep strategies and emphasizes the importance of understanding your study timeline, effective study techniques, recognizing when to take breaks, and the value of collaborative study.

Additionally, she highlights the significance of practice tests in gauging progress and structuring a personalized study plan to ensure GMAT success. And of course, no conversation about GMAT prep is complete without covering all three sections of the exam: Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights.

Resources:

• Manhattan Prep's Free GMAT Starter Kit
• GMAC's Official GMAT Free Starter Kit

Takeaways:

• Preparing for business school starts before studying begins, and sometimes that prep even includes choosing a school/program.
• Even if a school/program is test optional, an entrance exam can enhance your application.
• Aim to start studying 3-5 months out, with five or six days of study each week.
• Prep tips: take breaks, set a timer for short study sessions can help overcome procrastination, and study in groups.
• Practice tests are essential for gauging progress, identifying weaknesses, and establishing a baseline score.
• Focus on actionable takeaways from mistakes to improve performance.
• Structuring your study in phases can lead to more effective learning. You have strengths and weaknesses in your review process.
• Understand the different question types and strategies for each.
• Utilize free resources and official materials from GMAC and Manhattan Prep for effective preparation!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
03:48 Choosing a Program
10:24 Exam Requirements
19:09 The Right Time to Take an Exam
23:40 Part-Time vs Full-Time Programs
27:51 GMAT Prep Timeline
32:24 Prep Motivation Techniques
37:13 Studying with Others
41:47 Practice Exams
45:34 How to Retain What You've Learned
52:46 GMAT Study Phases
59:36 Exam Best Practices
01:10:17 Recommended Prep Products
01:14:15 Key Takeaways
01:17:21 Conclusion