Hi @dcummins , I tried using your discount code using the website link in the description but am not able to apply it. Could you please provide updated code
I for one second to your thought ! Please avoid those stupid marketing gimmicks, of 3 weeks to 760 ! That is utter crap ! If your foundations aren't strong, it takes at least a year to increase a score. Thank you for your views. Really helps. Btw ! I was just waiting for your quote at the end, "when I saw the screen 710" ! you deserve it lad.
Hi Daniel thanks for sharing your story! I have been studying on and off on GMAT and man this study is really challenging! I am so glad to see your video, I am still studying, took my first test back in March below 400... still gotta keep pushing!
Ah you made me blush! haha thanks Zhangwei... You will get there. Honestly just follow the strategies and make sure you study consistently (see that cadence that i lay out). Happy to coach you
Hi congrats on the great score. It’s a phenomenal achievement.i start with 490 as my base score. So I think I will have to really grind to get above 700..looking forward to more videos.
Hi Dan! I am starting with a base score of 350 and have an end goal of 700+. My Quant is absolutely horrible lol. Signing up for TTP right away. Also, not sure if it's realistic to aim for a 350 point increase from here but your words really helped and I hope to get close! Thank you for posting this video and being super genuine.
Hi Danial- Excellent video and congrats on getting this score. I am going through the same experience too right now and I will use some of the strategies you talked about in both videos.
Thank you so much my friend! When you think you've given it your all, you can always manage to find some more energy in the tank. When you can sit back at the end of the day and say 'man i'm proud of what i achieved today' then you know you've put in the time.
Hi! In the first place, thank you very much for taking 46 minutes of your own time just to tell us your story. It is really generous from you! I have been reviewing for about three weeks now, and have been using both the GMAT official guide (I have done all the questions of all the sections twice) and have seen many tutorials regarding the different sections that I have been finding in CZcams (particularly the AWA section), as the explanations included in the book are not very detailed. My plan is to begin the “The Economist” GMAT prep course and begin working with the Manhattan prep books. I am averaging about 3 hours of study per weekday, and around 5-6 hours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. I believe it to be enough to tackle the GMAT around January - February 2022 with certain guarantees, but I would really appreciate your opinion. Thank you very much!
Thanks for sharing this excellent debrief! I was shattered after I gave my first attempt yesterday, scoring less than 600. This really gives me hope that consistent effort does bring forth results. Thank you @Dcummins
Hey Daniel. It’s crazy how different paths people take towards the GMAT. I have not been able to commit more than two hours per day because of 8-6pm work schedule, long commutes, and hectic living style. Really considering just taking a 2 month leave of absence, but in this COVID climate, not sure if it’s worth it. Thoughts on waiting it out until things get back to normal? Thanks mate, congrats on your achievements 💪🏆
Hi Diego, the hardest realisation most people need to make is that life doesn't get easier - there will always be something in the way. At least for now, you need to consistently work on the GMAT.. even if its just a few hours per day then a lot of time on the weekend. Averaging 20-30 hours per week is the goal as that's not easy but its a solid measured metric to go by. In saying this, everyone works at a different pace. Try changing your daily script around. Cut down commute time somehow - maybe stay at a relative's place or rent out a place if need be (don't go crazy) or alternatively, get to the office earlier and stay there later -- thats what I did, but I didn't have a long commute. Cut back on other things - let me be clear that you CAN'T do it all. I was a bodybuilder, for example, but I stopped all of that and just took up bicycling to and from work as a form of stress relief and exercise. At work, you can find a meeting room early in the morning (client or home office it doesn't matter) and stake it out, or work at your desk on the GMAT. I would do this at client's office sites - I'd get there extremely early (always the first one in and last one out) and study. The thing I was doing wrong is that I was using the wrong approach... I can't stress to you enough just to use Target Test Prep as it forces you to take the right approach. For Quant and Verbal... after you do that then we can see what gap we need to cover if any.
Hey, I really found your video useful to start of again with my prep. I gave the Manhattan prep test today and scored a 470. I have noted all the points you told and would restart. Previously, my confidence was slipping due to no progress in my tests but now as you mentioned I'll try different approaches for it. I have taken about a year break from my work and currently unemployed. However, after watching your video I am firm about my decision that I shall completely focus on my GMAT for 3 months and seek for guidance from tutors. Please advise if I am doing the right thing or not.
Thanks for sharing, can definitely relate to the anxiety, knowing you can do the questions but unable to execute under the circumstances. I Will test out some of the methods you discussed.
@@Dcummins That's interesting you say that, do you mean people online making it look too easy? I agree that GMAT favors ppl from the American system though
@@kaiyuan2893 I think that both people and companies make it look easier than what it actually is. From a user perspective: it is so common to see people say 'i scored a 700 in 2 weeks' when in fact they fail to mention that they had a strong mathematics background, read exorbitantly as a kid, or had another underlying reason that attributed to such a small preparation runway. This simply causes anxiety for students who may be struggling. Reading that someone found the magic pill to make them quickly lose their GMAT weight inherently makes that person believe that there is a pathway to avoid pain because naturally our mind is programmed to seek methods that bypass pain and obtain pleasure. From a company perspective it is often a triple whammy: 1. There is a shit ton of paid reviews out there for some companies, so don't believe every review you read; 2. There is no course that will 'Boost your score to a 780 in 2 weeks' - that's absolute horse shit. Even if you start out at a very high baseline, it actually takes a bit of time (months at minimum) to make significant gains in the score. 3. Misleading and deceptive marketing
@@Dcummins couldnt agree more mate, that also led me to caution when i saw your recommendation of Targettestprep. But your journey is honest and realistic, so i know it's real. Im taking the online GMAT next Tuesday!
@@kaiyuan2893 I'm a small-fish in a big pond really. After 3 years at this GMAT stuff, the one thing I realise is how much time I pissed away on dog shit preparation strategies and materials. When people's personal lives and mental well-being are affected - as mine was - you become very black and white about things. The whole reason i actually created the few videos I did is to begin to dispell all this garbage that exists, but in the most positive way possible of course. I have the utmost faith in TTP and the team. Its a shit load of work.. just doing the course alone doesn't guarantee a high score, but it does significantly increase the likelihood that you will get there in the shortest time.
Hi Dan, thanks for sharing! I find myself in the same situation, 430 and struggling to go higher. Also, it is psychologically challenging now... If you have further suggestions, happy to hear!
In addition to the amount of work required to develop the necessary skills of a 700+ scorer, a lower-scorer must also overcome the psychological hurdle associated with scoring low. This is because a lower scorer (sub 500), more so than someone who scores say 600 off the bat, often develops anxiety or psychological trauma, whether subconscious or not, associated with taking the test such that they FEAR taking practice tests, they question themselves asking 'is this the test that will determine whether I should keep my exam date or move it?', ultimately building the test up as this insurmountable feat in their head. THIS, my friend, is why it is so hard to make 200+ point increases. You must self-validate, reaffirm, and overcome inner conflicts/ psychological hurdles. I, for example, had 700+ knowledge and skillsets for a long-time, but my psyche pegged me down to the 650 bracket. Only after I overcame the anxiety and inner conflicts I had was I able to persevere. It took me 7 times.... 7 official takes over the multi-year prep period. It will take a lot of work--- whether you score a 600 or 400 to start off-- but if you do it right, you can shave off a significant amount of time from your prep. I would start off independently.. go to my second video and follow the recommendations to a Tee --seriously i'm not paid for this and I can tell you that my recommendations come from pruning out the garbage that exists in this industry. Keep yourself accountable, work consistently and diligently, and realise that you won't be able to do it all -- you will struggle to exceed expectations and get promoted, for example, if you are burning the candle on one side of the stick, so prioritise on one thing at a time. I'm living proof that anyone can make this jump with the right mindset and prep. If you have any more questions let me know.
@@manishatamang1214 My pleasure. Everyone can do it. I am proof of that. I'm speaking the truth when I say that anyone can do it - its just a matter of time and consistent effort. Its definitely not easy, but slowly and surely it will happen...
Hi Daniel! Just wanted to share that I’ve been following your journey for a while now. I just recently made my own big jump from 590 to 700 ! You were a big inspiration man! Good luck with the rest of the MBA journey. Where are you looking to apply btw ?
Thanks so much Daniala. This is exactly why i made these videos. The jump I made of is unorthodox and people are told they cannot do it... well you are also living proof that you can! I'm looking at LBS and maybe a few others!
@@bsca1956 Hi Bichr, I used multiple resources across my journey. I would exclusively use TTP if I were to do it all again, especially considering they just launched verbal.
Thanks man, your video has really given me a proper direction as I have been facing the same issues. Hopefully I will score 700+ with the guidance provided by you. :)
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. I gave my CAT (Indian Management Exam) in November and was disappointed with my results in January. But I have been feeling alone in this journey as it's excruciatingly long and tough. I want to top this exam now. So I am ready to grind.
This happens a lot. Stick to it if you can. Scores never increase in a linear fashion. For example, in my later 4 exams I went 650-650-650-600-710 I figured out that by switching test centres in my last take, I was able to take away the anxiety i had associated with taking the test. Warmup also... can't stress that enough. Warming up is so key before oyu take the test!
@@Dcummins hi I ve been hearing about ttp all over gmatclub and since you mentioned too I was really curious in buying their product, I'm currently using mgmat guides for my quant but I'm taking too long to solve each quant questions. Do I first need to brush up my basics and then buy ttp or can I enrol right away.nevertheless il be definitely trying out the $1 course. To get an idea. Please advise.
@@dcummins22J hi thanks alot reply. I hate that after going through all mgmat guides I for some reason find it difficult to answer each GMAT og question. Mgamat is great. Not worried if I'm bad at math anymore. I do gather it's about practice and technique of solving each question. This is the skill I lack probably coz I haven't practiced much. I have scheduled my exam in December yes I just have 1.5 months of prepping left. I was afraid how to go about it, been watching all your vedios for motivational purpose including that one with Marty. It was indeed amazing. As I have seen people going from q47-51 on ttp testimonials it struck me if I need to practice self study get in 650 level and then to level up use ttp. Hence I was a bit confused.
@@praka7220 Give TTP a shot. They are introducing score guarantees soon (if not already) and i honestly think its unbeaten. Its a lot of work though.. but you’ll find it very rewarding. The guys are really helpful also... if you do end up, be sure to use my link in the code! Best of Luck
@@dcummins22J thanks Daniel, 💯 whenever I do enroll, il definitely enroll using your links as it's only through your vedios I have been to build some confidence that situation isn't as hopeless as it seems. Thanks alot.. will keep you posted here on my prep progress.
I scored 550 on my first GMAT test in June, now I'm scoring between 610-650 on Manhattan mocks. I'll be giving my first official GMAT test on 23rd August. I am super nervous about it, I have no idea about how's it going to go.
My background is electrical engineering and I’m doing my masters in business so I need gmat my base score is 530 but I need to reach that 700+ in 3 months I need to refresh my skills w math wo calculator 👊🏻that’s my weakness
I'm seen some improvement by using the GMAT Official Prep practice tests, would you recommend this route? I take the test, and then review what I missed, its worked so far for me, but I'm also not at the level I want to be, maybe this way will only take me so far.
Hey! Practice tests should only be used to measure, at a point in time, your current skillset. Do not burn official tests to improve. If you say you need to work on specific topics then track those. Have you completed a course such as TTP? Very important to complete a course first
I took two mocks and I got 340 and 450. Very disappointed. Took the GMAT mini quiz and it is also showing estimated score 400-440. I don't know what to do now. I went through the basics taking topic tests and sectionals also. I want to take my GMAT online test in the first week of August. Can you suggest me what to do now?
@@Dcummins I see! I’m interested in applying for INSEAD my self amongst other schools. What did you score for your AWA and IR? I got an.8 on IR but unfortunately got a 4 on AWA, which isn’t outstanding.
@@haryem4781 Your IR score is awesome. I honestly mostly skipped IR (which is a terrible idea) and I just naturally knew how to write the AWA, so I always scored 6.0. I highly recommend INSEAD. Its awesome for Australians as we are well known across Australia and the network carries quite strongly versus US schools. LBS is also good, but its 2 years.
What is the lateness system? You did explain it in the video but could you point to a link or any examples of it? Thanks, You are an inspiration. I started by journey at 400, I am at 500. I am only hoping for a 650.
I had a similar experience with anxiety in a previous test but can't overcome it yet , now i'm stuck .. i'm having an exam in 10 days and my score is 410 on practice test and d not know what to do really
You shouldn't schedule an exam if you aren't ready. That makes zero logical sense. Let the completion of your learning dictate when you should schedule the exam and don't burn through one of your few lifetime attempts
Hi Dan, Hi everyone, I'm also in a similar experience. to study forward, what is the strategy to move forward? 1. Do a lot of different practice test and review? 2. Focus on each topic, master it, and move on to the next? 3. other? Please help. I'm starting to get desperate and considering on switching to GRE :(
Hi Witsqa, The strategy is laid out in the video, and after my MBA i'll have time to do a write-up properly, but for now: 1. Take a diagnostic to gauge how much time you need to hit your score goal i.e. the lower the score the more time 2. Just begin working through TTP. Honestly, its all encompassing. Nothing is as good as it. TTP also forces you to get reps in on a topic by topic basis 3. Take tests after you finish TTP 4. Refine weak areas but maintain proficiency in all areas (testing + Practice sets)
What plan should one take for ttp. The 4 month one or the 6 month one. I'm pretty bad in quant so approximately how many hours would one need to complete the course? I'm well aware that it's different for each person but on an average?
Depends where you start. Just take a diagnostic, but in reality its going to be cheaper to get larger plans plus you will need at least a couple of months no matter what. So, perhaps get whatever you can afford and adjust
I’ve got 6 months left. I’d like to take the gmat in late October. I am fairly weak at math, it’s never been my strong suit. do you think 6 months is enough for me to get a 700. I’ll be buying the target test prep 6 months course.
Hi Blair, Firstly, I would let your diagnostic score dictate your runway - not the otherway around. If you do it the other way around and find yourself in a position not ready to take the test in month 4 or 5, you're going to stress TF out and create anxiety for yourself, hindering your performance and mental well-being. This is a common and big misconception in the GMAT. Choosing a test date first can be a good decision if you're already operating at an okay baseline score. For most, its a finger in the air guess. Let your diagnostic test and learning dictate when you should take the test. See my second video on how to do it. This is honestly the most pragmatic approach. Great news on TTP - see my third video on velocity. I think 2 Quant topics per week combined with verbal committments is conservative, but you need to allow more time for harder/ weaker/ larger topics. Now lets do some quick maths. There are around 23-24 modules / topics to complete in just quant alone. (24/2 topics per week) = 12 weeks just for quant. This is very conservative, so some topics may take you 1 whole week, some a lot less, and you may not study consistently throughout. Then you need to allow time for verbal - which is arguably harder to improve, even if you start out at a decent score. Then you need to allow time to for improving weak areas across quant and verbal and test taking. Test taking is a skillset in itself - you can have 700+ knowledge, but 500+ test taking skillset and your GMAT score will nose dive. These are just considerations. Let your diagnostic test (From mba.com) dictate your runway. Again, see my second video and you'll be able to make a more informed decision.
Congratulations on the video! It's very motivating, I have completed Verbal Foundation and I practice 8 questions everyday of SC,CR,RC each along with 8 questions of quant topics that i have already finished ,from OG. My GMAT is scheduled on Jan 7th 2021, what can I do during this time to maximize my score. Please suggest. Thanks
Hi Akshit, Theres so many ways to answer this, but I can tell you right now that what you're doing probably isn't sufficient. Even if you were just focusing on one topic at a time, 8 questions isn't even enough to cover it. I am in the process of getting a site up and running to disseminate info. hundreds if not thousands have reached out to me asking for similar advice, so the website will be my scalable way of responding!
I got 42 for my quant at my first gmat test (offline) with moderate study, by only use the princeton gmat prep book. But due to covid i have to take online gmat and my 2nd and 3rd test (both online) always scored below my first test even with much more preparation (this time I also use official gmat guide book). Do you have any suggestion which book or study method that I can practice? For now I consider manhattan prep book to my study regime. Thanks in advance
Hey, I recommend that you check my second video out. I whole-heartedly swear by target test prep. Just use it as it is laid out. Don't cut corners, and you should be at the Q47+ range provided you are thorough. OG questions are literally just past questions, so I'm not sure how you can adequately learn from past questions if you don't understand the concepts. Treat OG questions as the basis for assessing your proficiency and understanding of a given topic. Topic-by-topic approach your way through.
@@edresmn7869 I did advanced mathematics in high school, but I graduated high school in 2008, university in 2012, and started GMAT prep in mid 2017 or so... you can go from zero to 700+ GMAT quant if you just be prudent, hence why i always redirect people to TTP for Quant and Verbal now
I am going from zero math knowledge and have 30 months ahead. I think it is impossible to learn things from scratch. People struggle in the exam even they know the knowledge inside out. Any thoughts?
@@edresmn7869 I think that limiting beliefs are why we don't ever reach our goals and continually hold ourselves back. Trust me, the maths I did in school wasn't strong. I can spend time researching and digging up a heap of non-math background profiles of people who scored 700+, but I don't have much time at the moment (INSEAD is intense!)... Just tell yourself "if I don't know something now, then I just need to work at it and figure it out". Use logic. If i'm a human and I can do it, and you're a human, then you can do it as well.
Man this gives me hope I just got a 430 on my first mock ,but the problem is I need a good score in 2months at least a 650 I am willing to put in 8 hours a day I just can’t give it two years etc if you can tell me in a nutshell just like the best one strategy to go for the next two months that would mean the world to me I spent money on Egmat and it was such a waste tooo much details headed nowhere please please please if you can reply I also have started to meditate as am so stressed about this exam and anxiety which is affecting my prep and making me feeel sooo dumb and lost
Hi Nitish, You need to be honest about your expectations. 430 to 650 is doable with the right approach. Have a look at my second video in which I meticulously explain how to achieve your desired score. I literally discuss what you need to do and if i could go back and start my journey again I'd use the approach in that video.
Hi Nitish Have a look at Dan's 2nd video but with a limited amount of time the most important thing is to avoid forgetting. Cramming lots of topics one after another helps in the short term but can lead to quickly forgetting. That's where the Lietner System comes in. Helps prioritise your gaps and builds in spaced repetition! Feel free to reach out jesse@sandboxlearning.com.au
What a motivating story - thank you! How old were you at the time? I have two months until final deadline for this years university masters application. I´ll try my best but I might have to apply for next year. Bit worried since I´ll be 26 when entering masters next year.
Hey, I think Number Properties has the steepest learning curb even though it isn't the hardest. The hardest in terms of pure subject matter is likely Combined Probability/ Permutation & Combination problems, but those problems don't come up often even when you're doing well on the test.
Hey mate, such an inspiring story! Wondering if you are looking to sell your Powerscore book? I live in Sydney too, I can pickup from you from anywhere. Cheers
Great video! Very inspirational! I have some personal questions to ask you in regards to studying for the GMAT. May I have your email, so I can email my question/situation to you? Thank you for sharing your experience!
@@Dcummins Thank you for your response! I was just curious though, in terms of furthering my FAST MATH skills, do you have any links/blogs/words of wisdom in terms of math/algebra/word problems/geometry/number properties/permutation/combination/probability/sets formulas that you recommend that I should memorize or atleast put into flashcards? I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter. Thank you for all your help thus far!
@@ervinmercado1937 You can practice mental math here: arithmetic.zetamac.com/ Its a great site. Just choose the settings you wish. For multiplication tables just stick to integers between 1 and 18 max. In terms of those concepts you mentioned. That just takes practice. Literally just practice sets of questions to get better at them.
Hey thanks for the useful tips, for the books that you listed I see that CR Bible has topics based on most frequently asked questions on the GMAT. Is it sufficient to review just that or all the topics ? I'm trying to take my exam in Nov. and would be glad if you can help. Thanks
Yes. Over recent years some questions aren't as relevant - such as Parallel Reasoning- and other questions have taken greater priority - such as Evaluate the Argument.
Great video. Do you think it's possible to prepare from 0 to get to 600+ in 4 weeks full time (no work/school)? Also my math skill is bad(coz I forgot most of it after years of working.).
You need to take a diagnostic test (a test from the official gmat website) to see where you stand in order for me to answer that. In most cases it’ll take a few months. Take the test then if I were you I’d jump onto target test prep immediately
twice , I choked ,but I don't know how I could get 700+ each time. Honestly, i was expecting 750+ if i could perform normally ,but i choked badly ....i thought i might get 500
Hi, I'm studying quant from ttp currently - its really helpful. But for verbal I just don't know where to go! I'm at V23 right now. Please suggest a good platform
Hi Anukriti, TTP actually has a very good verbal platform. I highly recommend their SC. You should most certainly complement concepts that you learn with OG questions associated to each topic that you learn.
Thank you for your response! What's your feedback for egmat? I mean i have read so many good things about their sc module online but it almost feels too good to be true :(
Its hard for me to give advice as I don’t know your current level of english. In my second video I mention that non-natives may find e-GMAT beneficial. To me it wasn’t great for a few reasons: 1. There aren’t many questions or high quality questions for verbal; 2. To a native English speaker, hearing another dialect of English, namely Indian-English, can be frustrating at times because, for example, articles are omitted e.g. instead of saying “lets go to THE office” the instructor would say “Let’s go to office” - this is incredibly annoying to listen to as its actually not correct; 3. The platform felt overhyped and over marketed - I think there a number of fake reviews and I probably fell victim to this. In saying this, many non-natives find it beneficial, hence why i recommended it to non-natives only. Perhaps give it a try and see what your think?
Its hard for me to judge my level of English.All i can say is that I'm comfortable in it. I guess when it comes to test, solving a verbal question under time restrain gets to my nerves because of which i generally end up choosing answers which "sound" right. I've been practicing, but my score is not increasing from a V23
@@anukritimunshi Hi Anukriti, I am at same stage now not able to find a good way to proceed in verbal section. Have you tried EGMAT? Your reply will be really helpful
Depends on how much time you have. If you have 6 months or so, start by building up the fundamentals using streaks. This will give you a solid base but you'll quickly forget things. After that use Leitner to keep everything fresh and avoid forgetting.
Hi Dan, I am so stressed because of my Rc performance. My accuracy is approx 60 percent on 650 level RCs...and I am taking roughly total 4 to 5 min extra when I solve 4 rcs during my practice. Please please give me so tips. I am So frustrated right now I feel like I can never achieve dream. I know my mistakes , but still unable to improve on them How did you worked for rcs ? Do u used to solve 700+ marks rcs as well ?? What was ur strategy? Please help!!!
Don't worry about time until you nail your accuracy. Drop down to sub-600 level passages, and i suggest you do them untimed. If you know your mistakes, then you must be conscious of them each time you do a question - even if you need to take 10 minutes+ to solve just one question. The pathway to eradicating mistakes is by first identifying them, second working on them, then third always be conscious of them even after you've developed the weakness. Its hard for me to be very specific on here. Perhaps email me
Hi Dan, Please share your email...I always eliminate 3 wrong answers but then I choose the trap answer .. somewhere my mind keep saying u r falling for the he trap... But still ends up doing it... Because the answer look so close to right answer.... Does this happened to u , if yes, how did u overcame the problem
Thank you. Anyone can get a 700+ score. You just need to follow the right approach - a topic-by-topic approach to learning the GMAT. That is the only guaranteed way to get a 700+ score provided you are mentally rock solid i.e. don't self-doubt and don't screw yourself over with anxiety
Hey Dan, I just scored a 440 on a practice with no prep at all. My goal is 700 like you, and I'm currently in my undergrad. How long should I plan to prep? Do you think I could do it while studying 2 hours a day for ~6 months, or do I need longer? I see you took like 3 years but it wasn't all focused.. if I start with TTP and start extremely focused will it take me less time?
Hi Connor Thanks for your comment. First thing I need to mention is that I studied in many of the worst ways possible in the beginning. I might have to do a whole video on that alone, but my debrief with GMATNinja covers a good chunk of what i did wrong (if not in this video). Did you finish the entire test? You need to be aware that if you don’t finish the test your score is marked down worse than if you had guessed questions incorrectly. Assuming you did finish the test, then you will need to set aside at least 6 months. It’s not easy, but if you use TTP you will be taking the most effective approach. Short answer to the time duration question: No. 2 hours per day probably won’t cut it. I think you need to start slow to build the habit, then hit the study hard (4-5 hours per day) over the weekend. Then, ramp up your study duration week by week (add 0.5 hours per day with a maximum of 4 hours study per week day and 6-8 hours per weekend. Given that you are in undergrad, I suggest that you use your breaks/ perhaps tailor your course to allow you to do the GMAT. For example, can you space out or condense some subjects? Is there a subject that you can push to a summer or winter school class that you would have otherwise studied during semester? If you reduce to 3 subjects per semester that will probably help ease up some time. The key thing i need to emphasize is that this test is a point in time assessment of your skills. It’s not something that can be crammed (unless you are already scoring high). Think of the GMAT as if you are a rookie bodybuilder working your way up to a 225lb for 31 reps bench press. You don’t start out repping 225, you start off with the bar, build your muscle, build consistency and good habits such as eating protein + drinking water, and practice mindfulness to eliminate ego and be unshakeable come test day. It’s worth noting that you can and will get frustrated at this test. It will humble you in the process. Make sure you do something you love once a day - whether that be hanging out with friends or exercising or playing COD in the evenings.
@@dcummins22J Thanks so much for your detailed response so quickly! Everything you said makes a lot of sense in terms of strategy. I'm not sure how school works outside of the US, but for me I have to take 15 credits a semester to graduate on time. 15 credits on average means I spend about 30 hours a week in class and studying. If you recommend, I could take 12 credits starting in the spring semester (January-May) to allocate additional studying time for the GMAT, but the trade off is I would have to take 18 credits in a later semester to balance it out. I do have breaks for holidays, however, I will have a month off of school in December, and a 3 month break this summer, but I was hoping to get a full time internship during that time. Would you recommend I buy and start TTP now and start slowly, or should I start in December when I have more time off of school? Some good news is that my verbal was already decent, just my quant is horrible, (V34, Q17) and I am already accustomed to standardized tests. I got a perfect score on the ACT Reading and Writing sections just two years ago, so with some review I feel confident for GMAT Verbal, although I know it's not the same. Thanks again for your response!
@@connormoore5686 In Aus we take 4 subjects per full-time semester or 24 credits per semester, 2 semesters per year, but we have the option of taking summer and winter school (during time otherwise spent on breaks). I just meant if there was a way you can better balance your time by spreading your undergrad study load out throughout the year then it would perhaps alleviate some pressure on GMAT study time, but don't don't delay finishing your degree for the GMAT. Perhaps start while studying your undergrad and just ramp up over holidays and breaks. Given your underlying strength, i think you'll find that you'll get up to scratch quickly. Quant is significantly easier to improve than verbal, but it dulls off quicker if you don't consistently practice it.
I’m currently in grade 12 and I gave a mock gmat paper on the official website just for the fun of it to see where I stand. I got a scaled score of 690 and 86 percentile. Is it good enough for my age?😬
@@Dcummins I am already 34 and will be turning 35. Still struggling with GMAT. Does INSEAD prefer candidates in mid 30s. or will it be difficult? Going through the same phases of preparation as you did. Just don't want to give up on GMAT.
Ok. I am 32 , but not sure if I will be a good profile to be accepted by mba schools. I heard that many mba schools don't prefer candidates above 30 yrs.
@@anuraggupta-zu1ly So i'm assuming that you're referring to full-time programs. From what I know, the further into your 30s you are the more likely a school is to recommend that you do their Part-time / Executice MBA programs. US Schools notoriously have a lower average class age than do European schools or anywhere else. Its best to speak with an admissions consultant on the matter.
MBA.Com for official GMATPrep Tests - 6 tests, and you can take them twice Veritas for Practice Tests - 7 CATs GMATClub for Quant - 25 Tests or so (I just used them for quant) Manhattan (I took only verbal sections) I took Economist tests at the beginning of my prep, but I wouldn't recommend them.
Make sure you sign-up to TTP using my link (shrsl.com/2f004) and TTP10percent to get a discount!
@SuperOdd1out I'll look into it. For the time being use DOMINATE10 and just be sure to click through using the link above!
Hi @dcummins , I tried using your discount code using the website link in the description but am not able to apply it. Could you please provide updated code
@@asthabardia Hi Astha. Be sure to click the link - shrsl.com/2f004 + CODE: TTP10percent
hi i am trying to apply the code but it's not working for me
@@muskanyadava5205 use TTP10percent
Just started studying for the GMAT and it has been so demoralizing. Thank you for the advice!!
At first it seems laborious, but when you learn to game the test it becomes interesting
What’s your result?
Thank you so much for this video. This is real and this is relatable. So hard to listen to people who get +700 in "three weeks". You give me hope!
Anyone can get there...its just a matter of time and the right approach
I for one second to your thought ! Please avoid those stupid marketing gimmicks, of 3 weeks to 760 ! That is utter crap ! If your foundations aren't strong, it takes at least a year to increase a score. Thank you for your views. Really helps. Btw ! I was just waiting for your quote at the end, "when I saw the screen 710" ! you deserve it lad.
Congratulations on completing this long journey. At the end it was worth the effort.
Thank you for sharing your story
Thanks my friend!
Took my first one yesterday and coudlnt believe how depressed I felt this morning. This really helps to keep going.
No need to get depressed. Everyone starts somewhere. Just get to work and see your progress improve
Just had a 40 point drop similar to the 650-600 you shared. Appreciate your transparency in the journey 💯
Hi Daniel thanks for sharing your story! I have been studying on and off on GMAT and man this study is really challenging! I am so glad to see your video, I am still studying, took my first test back in March below 400... still gotta keep pushing!
And by the way, you are super cute!
Ah you made me blush! haha thanks Zhangwei... You will get there. Honestly just follow the strategies and make sure you study consistently (see that cadence that i lay out). Happy to coach you
Hi congrats on the great score. It’s a phenomenal achievement.i start with 490 as my base score. So I think I will have to really grind to get above 700..looking forward to more videos.
Thanks my man! Balancing apps and this at the moment, so slowly but surely i'll post more stuff - in SHORTER format as well lol
How did you score ?
WOW! WHAT A JOURNEY! THANKS FOR SHARING IN DEPTH! VERY GRATEFUL! MORE POWER TO YOU.
You are so welcome
Taking the GMAT soon after studying for a year. The long game is all mental
Thanks for this
Thanks for sharing! So happy you were finally able to get your score.
Congrats!
Hi Dan! I am starting with a base score of 350 and have an end goal of 700+. My Quant is absolutely horrible lol. Signing up for TTP right away. Also, not sure if it's realistic to aim for a 350 point increase from here but your words really helped and I hope to get close! Thank you for posting this video and being super genuine.
You can
Hey any updates?
Thank you for this honest and not sugar coated story
I'm glad its had the effect it has. In all honesty I had to really think long and hard about posting this.
thank a lot. :)
Such a wholesome video thanks mate
I'm about to start my journey again and I'm really glad I found your video!
You got this!
Hi Danial- Excellent video and congrats on getting this score. I am going through the same experience too right now and I will use some of the strategies you talked about in both videos.
Thank you so much for this. I got a 590 on my first official GMAT practice test and I’m struggling to get into the right mindset to keep studying
No worries. You'll get there
I am amazed by your perseverance and fortitude. Some golden nuggets of info in your video.
So inspiring. Thank you for posting this!
Please come back to CZcams!!
@@reginamarshall4055 I might just do that!
Love your attitude - not to give up. And Congratulation for your score.
Thank you so much my friend! When you think you've given it your all, you can always manage to find some more energy in the tank.
When you can sit back at the end of the day and say 'man i'm proud of what i achieved today' then you know you've put in the time.
Hi! In the first place, thank you very much for taking 46 minutes of your own time just to tell us your story. It is really generous from you!
I have been reviewing for about three weeks now, and have been using both the GMAT official guide (I have done all the questions of all the sections twice) and have seen many tutorials regarding the different sections that I have been finding in CZcams (particularly the AWA section), as the explanations included in the book are not very detailed. My plan is to begin the “The Economist” GMAT prep course and begin working with the Manhattan prep books. I am averaging about 3 hours of study per weekday, and around 5-6 hours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. I believe it to be enough to tackle the GMAT around January - February 2022 with certain guarantees, but I would really appreciate your opinion.
Thank you very much!
Thanks for sharing this excellent debrief! I was shattered after I gave my first attempt yesterday, scoring less than 600. This really gives me hope that consistent effort does bring forth results. Thank you @Dcummins
Hey Daniel. It’s crazy how different paths people take towards the GMAT. I have not been able to commit more than two hours per day because of 8-6pm work schedule, long commutes, and hectic living style. Really considering just taking a 2 month leave of absence, but in this COVID climate, not sure if it’s worth it. Thoughts on waiting it out until things get back to normal? Thanks mate, congrats on your achievements 💪🏆
Hi Diego, the hardest realisation most people need to make is that life doesn't get easier - there will always be something in the way. At least for now, you need to consistently work on the GMAT.. even if its just a few hours per day then a lot of time on the weekend. Averaging 20-30 hours per week is the goal as that's not easy but its a solid measured metric to go by.
In saying this, everyone works at a different pace.
Try changing your daily script around. Cut down commute time somehow - maybe stay at a relative's place or rent out a place if need be (don't go crazy) or alternatively, get to the office earlier and stay there later -- thats what I did, but I didn't have a long commute.
Cut back on other things - let me be clear that you CAN'T do it all.
I was a bodybuilder, for example, but I stopped all of that and just took up bicycling to and from work as a form of stress relief and exercise. At work, you can find a meeting room early in the morning (client or home office it doesn't matter) and stake it out, or work at your desk on the GMAT.
I would do this at client's office sites - I'd get there extremely early (always the first one in and last one out) and study.
The thing I was doing wrong is that I was using the wrong approach... I can't stress to you enough just to use Target Test Prep as it forces you to take the right approach. For Quant and Verbal... after you do that then we can see what gap we need to cover if any.
Hey, I really found your video useful to start of again with my prep. I gave the Manhattan prep test today and scored a 470. I have noted all the points you told and would restart. Previously, my confidence was slipping due to no progress in my tests but now as you mentioned I'll try different approaches for it. I have taken about a year break from my work and currently unemployed. However, after watching your video I am firm about my decision that I shall completely focus on my GMAT for 3 months and seek for guidance from tutors. Please advise if I am doing the right thing or not.
Sorry for the late reply. How are you going with things?
How was it ?
Thanks for sharing, can definitely relate to the anxiety, knowing you can do the questions but unable to execute under the circumstances. I Will test out some of the methods you discussed.
Thanks for this, appreciate your honesty. Im in the same situation as you and your story is really inspiring.
Thanks mate! Gotta cut to it. There is so much misinformation out there. People's lives and emotions are at steak when they go down the wrong path
@@Dcummins That's interesting you say that, do you mean people online making it look too easy? I agree that GMAT favors ppl from the American system though
@@kaiyuan2893 I think that both people and companies make it look easier than what it actually is. From a user perspective: it is so common to see people say 'i scored a 700 in 2 weeks' when in fact they fail to mention that they had a strong mathematics background, read exorbitantly as a kid, or had another underlying reason that attributed to such a small preparation runway.
This simply causes anxiety for students who may be struggling. Reading that someone found the magic pill to make them quickly lose their GMAT weight inherently makes that person believe that there is a pathway to avoid pain because naturally our mind is programmed to seek methods that bypass pain and obtain pleasure.
From a company perspective it is often a triple whammy:
1. There is a shit ton of paid reviews out there for some companies, so don't believe every review you read;
2. There is no course that will 'Boost your score to a 780 in 2 weeks' - that's absolute horse shit. Even if you start out at a very high baseline, it actually takes a bit of time (months at minimum) to make significant gains in the score.
3. Misleading and deceptive marketing
@@Dcummins couldnt agree more mate, that also led me to caution when i saw your recommendation of Targettestprep. But your journey is honest and realistic, so i know it's real. Im taking the online GMAT next Tuesday!
@@kaiyuan2893 I'm a small-fish in a big pond really. After 3 years at this GMAT stuff, the one thing I realise is how much time I pissed away on dog shit preparation strategies and materials. When people's personal lives and mental well-being are affected - as mine was - you become very black and white about things. The whole reason i actually created the few videos I did is to begin to dispell all this garbage that exists, but in the most positive way possible of course.
I have the utmost faith in TTP and the team. Its a shit load of work.. just doing the course alone doesn't guarantee a high score, but it does significantly increase the likelihood that you will get there in the shortest time.
Hi Dan, thanks for sharing! I find myself in the same situation, 430 and struggling to go higher. Also, it is psychologically challenging now... If you have further suggestions, happy to hear!
In addition to the amount of work required to develop the necessary skills of a 700+ scorer, a lower-scorer must also overcome the psychological hurdle associated with scoring low.
This is because a lower scorer (sub 500), more so than someone who scores say 600 off the bat, often develops anxiety or psychological trauma, whether subconscious or not, associated with taking the test such that they FEAR taking practice tests, they question themselves asking 'is this the test that will determine whether I should keep my exam date or move it?', ultimately building the test up as this insurmountable feat in their head.
THIS, my friend, is why it is so hard to make 200+ point increases. You must self-validate, reaffirm, and overcome inner conflicts/ psychological hurdles.
I, for example, had 700+ knowledge and skillsets for a long-time, but my psyche pegged me down to the 650 bracket. Only after I overcame the anxiety and inner conflicts I had was I able to persevere.
It took me 7 times.... 7 official takes over the multi-year prep period.
It will take a lot of work--- whether you score a 600 or 400 to start off-- but if you do it right, you can shave off a significant amount of time from your prep. I would start off independently.. go to my second video and follow the recommendations to a Tee --seriously i'm not paid for this and I can tell you that my recommendations come from pruning out the garbage that exists in this industry.
Keep yourself accountable, work consistently and diligently, and realise that you won't be able to do it all -- you will struggle to exceed expectations and get promoted, for example, if you are burning the candle on one side of the stick, so prioritise on one thing at a time.
I'm living proof that anyone can make this jump with the right mindset and prep.
If you have any more questions let me know.
@@Dcummins thank you very very much. I feel like I can make it to my target score. Thank you for making time to help us and share your experience.
@@manishatamang1214 My pleasure. Everyone can do it. I am proof of that. I'm speaking the truth when I say that anyone can do it - its just a matter of time and consistent effort. Its definitely not easy, but slowly and surely it will happen...
Hi Daniel! Just wanted to share that I’ve been following your journey for a while now. I just recently made my own big jump from 590 to 700 ! You were a big inspiration man! Good luck with the rest of the MBA journey. Where are you looking to apply btw ?
Thanks so much Daniala. This is exactly why i made these videos. The jump I made of is unorthodox and people are told they cannot do it... well you are also living proof that you can!
I'm looking at LBS and maybe a few others!
@@bsca1956 Hi Bichr, I used multiple resources across my journey. I would exclusively use TTP if I were to do it all again, especially considering they just launched verbal.
@@bsca1956 Same to you, my friend. Thanks for your blessing
Thanks man, your video has really given me a proper direction as I have been facing the same issues. Hopefully I will score 700+ with the guidance provided by you. :)
You will! Nothing to it but to do it
I became your fan after reading one of your explanation to an answer on Gmat club.
Thankyou! Thats really kind of you to say!
I also got 430 now I hope to get 670 in my next one which will be in 3.5 months I hope I’ll reach it.
You have really lovely eyes!
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. I gave my CAT (Indian Management Exam) in November and was disappointed with my results in January. But I have been feeling alone in this journey as it's excruciatingly long and tough.
I want to top this exam now. So I am ready to grind.
Wish you the best of luck!
I’ve been losing it myself. I got a 640 in a mock and got a 570 in the next one.
I might switch over to the GRE
This happens a lot. Stick to it if you can. Scores never increase in a linear fashion.
For example, in my later 4 exams I went 650-650-650-600-710
I figured out that by switching test centres in my last take, I was able to take away the anxiety i had associated with taking the test.
Warmup also... can't stress that enough. Warming up is so key before oyu take the test!
I got 390 on my mock.. thanks for this. I really hope I can score better.
You will. The only way from here is up!
@@Dcummins hi I ve been hearing about ttp all over gmatclub and since you mentioned too I was really curious in buying their product, I'm currently using mgmat guides for my quant but I'm taking too long to solve each quant questions. Do I first need to brush up my basics and then buy ttp or can I enrol right away.nevertheless il be definitely trying out the $1 course. To get an idea. Please advise.
@@dcummins22J hi thanks alot reply. I hate that after going through all mgmat guides I for some reason find it difficult to answer each GMAT og question. Mgamat is great. Not worried if I'm bad at math anymore. I do gather it's about practice and technique of solving each question. This is the skill I lack probably coz I haven't practiced much. I have scheduled my exam in December yes I just have 1.5 months of prepping left. I was afraid how to go about it, been watching all your vedios for motivational purpose including that one with Marty. It was indeed amazing. As I have seen people going from q47-51 on ttp testimonials it struck me if I need to practice self study get in 650 level and then to level up use ttp. Hence I was a bit confused.
@@praka7220 Give TTP a shot. They are introducing score guarantees soon (if not already) and i honestly think its unbeaten. Its a lot of work though.. but you’ll find it very rewarding. The guys are really helpful also... if you do end up, be sure to use my link in the code! Best of Luck
@@dcummins22J thanks Daniel, 💯 whenever I do enroll, il definitely enroll using your links as it's only through your vedios I have been to build some confidence that situation isn't as hopeless as it seems. Thanks alot.. will keep you posted here on my prep progress.
I scored 550 on my first GMAT test in June, now I'm scoring between 610-650 on Manhattan mocks. I'll be giving my first official GMAT test on 23rd August.
I am super nervous about it, I have no idea about how's it going to go.
Update: Scored 610, bombed the exam because of panic
@@ArmaanKumar2000 It's still a good score. I am aiming for 600+ score and at 450. Don't know how to get there. Exam is in a week. I am doomed 😞
How long did you prepare for when you scored 550? I need to score 500 for the University and only have a month left
Is studying for 20 hours a week for 15 weeks a reasonable timeframe to achieve a 680 from a 450?
My background is electrical engineering and I’m doing my masters in business so I need gmat my base score is 530 but I need to reach that 700+ in 3 months I need to refresh my skills w math wo calculator 👊🏻that’s my weakness
Jump onto Target Test Prep. Its the be-all-end-all for gmatprep. Use TTPDAN20 for 10% off or just use the trial if you want to try it.
I got a 200 in my diagnostic lol. This test is so demoralising and frustrating!
I'm seen some improvement by using the GMAT Official Prep practice tests, would you recommend this route? I take the test, and then review what I missed, its worked so far for me, but I'm also not at the level I want to be, maybe this way will only take me so far.
Hey! Practice tests should only be used to measure, at a point in time, your current skillset. Do not burn official tests to improve. If you say you need to work on specific topics then track those. Have you completed a course such as TTP? Very important to complete a course first
I took two mocks and I got 340 and 450. Very disappointed. Took the GMAT mini quiz and it is also showing estimated score 400-440. I don't know what to do now. I went through the basics taking topic tests and sectionals also. I want to take my GMAT online test in the first week of August. Can you suggest me what to do now?
Hi Dcummins, I’m from Melbourne and I just got a 710 myself after 5 months of studying. Which MBA school did you choose in the end?
Congrats. I chose many, but I applied and was accepted into INSEAD. My number one choice!
@@Dcummins I see! I’m interested in applying for INSEAD my self amongst other schools. What did you score for your AWA and IR? I got an.8 on IR but unfortunately got a 4 on AWA, which isn’t outstanding.
@@haryem4781 Your IR score is awesome. I honestly mostly skipped IR (which is a terrible idea) and I just naturally knew how to write the AWA, so I always scored 6.0.
I highly recommend INSEAD. Its awesome for Australians as we are well known across Australia and the network carries quite strongly versus US schools. LBS is also good, but its 2 years.
Feel free to reach out to me via email and we can have a call anytime
What is the lateness system? You did explain it in the video but could you point to a link or any examples of it? Thanks, You are an inspiration. I started by journey at 400, I am at 500. I am only hoping for a 650.
Anyone taking gmat in late 2022?
Just took my practice test and got a 460 :( Really depressing.
I had a similar experience with anxiety in a previous test but can't overcome it yet , now i'm stuck .. i'm having an exam in 10 days and my score is 410 on practice test and d not know what to do really
You shouldn't schedule an exam if you aren't ready. That makes zero logical sense. Let the completion of your learning dictate when you should schedule the exam and don't burn through one of your few lifetime attempts
so how much you scored??
Hi Dan, Hi everyone,
I'm also in a similar experience. to study forward, what is the strategy to move forward?
1. Do a lot of different practice test and review?
2. Focus on each topic, master it, and move on to the next?
3. other?
Please help. I'm starting to get desperate and considering on switching to GRE :(
Hi Witsqa,
The strategy is laid out in the video, and after my MBA i'll have time to do a write-up properly, but for now:
1. Take a diagnostic to gauge how much time you need to hit your score goal i.e. the lower the score the more time
2. Just begin working through TTP. Honestly, its all encompassing. Nothing is as good as it. TTP also forces you to get reps in on a topic by topic basis
3. Take tests after you finish TTP
4. Refine weak areas but maintain proficiency in all areas (testing + Practice sets)
can someone summarise this video
What plan should one take for ttp. The 4 month one or the 6 month one. I'm pretty bad in quant so approximately how many hours would one need to complete the course? I'm well aware that it's different for each person but on an average?
Depends where you start. Just take a diagnostic, but in reality its going to be cheaper to get larger plans plus you will need at least a couple of months no matter what. So, perhaps get whatever you can afford and adjust
I’ve got 6 months left. I’d like to take the gmat in late October. I am fairly weak at math, it’s never been my strong suit. do you think 6 months is enough for me to get a 700. I’ll be buying the target test prep 6 months course.
Hi Blair,
Firstly, I would let your diagnostic score dictate your runway - not the otherway around. If you do it the other way around and find yourself in a position not ready to take the test in month 4 or 5, you're going to stress TF out and create anxiety for yourself, hindering your performance and mental well-being.
This is a common and big misconception in the GMAT. Choosing a test date first can be a good decision if you're already operating at an okay baseline score. For most, its a finger in the air guess.
Let your diagnostic test and learning dictate when you should take the test.
See my second video on how to do it. This is honestly the most pragmatic approach.
Great news on TTP - see my third video on velocity. I think 2 Quant topics per week combined with verbal committments is conservative, but you need to allow more time for harder/ weaker/ larger topics.
Now lets do some quick maths. There are around 23-24 modules / topics to complete in just quant alone. (24/2 topics per week) = 12 weeks just for quant. This is very conservative, so some topics may take you 1 whole week, some a lot less, and you may not study consistently throughout.
Then you need to allow time for verbal - which is arguably harder to improve, even if you start out at a decent score.
Then you need to allow time to for improving weak areas across quant and verbal and test taking. Test taking is a skillset in itself - you can have 700+ knowledge, but 500+ test taking skillset and your GMAT score will nose dive.
These are just considerations.
Let your diagnostic test (From mba.com) dictate your runway. Again, see my second video and you'll be able to make a more informed decision.
inspiring...
Congratulations on the video! It's very motivating, I have completed Verbal Foundation and I practice 8 questions everyday of SC,CR,RC each along with 8 questions of quant topics that i have already finished ,from OG. My GMAT is scheduled on Jan 7th 2021, what can I do during this time to maximize my score.
Please suggest.
Thanks
Hi Akshit,
Theres so many ways to answer this, but I can tell you right now that what you're doing probably isn't sufficient. Even if you were just focusing on one topic at a time, 8 questions isn't even enough to cover it.
I am in the process of getting a site up and running to disseminate info. hundreds if not thousands have reached out to me asking for similar advice, so the website will be my scalable way of responding!
I got 42 for my quant at my first gmat test (offline) with moderate study, by only use the princeton gmat prep book. But due to covid i have to take online gmat and my 2nd and 3rd test (both online) always scored below my first test even with much more preparation (this time I also use official gmat guide book). Do you have any suggestion which book or study method that I can practice? For now I consider manhattan prep book to my study regime. Thanks in advance
Hey, I recommend that you check my second video out. I whole-heartedly swear by target test prep. Just use it as it is laid out. Don't cut corners, and you should be at the Q47+ range provided you are thorough.
OG questions are literally just past questions, so I'm not sure how you can adequately learn from past questions if you don't understand the concepts. Treat OG questions as the basis for assessing your proficiency and understanding of a given topic.
Topic-by-topic approach your way through.
How were you math skills (middle school and high school math) before you start preparing anything for GMAT?
Did you know all the concepts involved in pre Algebra and Algebra, geometry? or you learned them from the beginning?
@@edresmn7869 I did advanced mathematics in high school, but I graduated high school in 2008, university in 2012, and started GMAT prep in mid 2017 or so... you can go from zero to 700+ GMAT quant if you just be prudent, hence why i always redirect people to TTP for Quant and Verbal now
I am going from zero math knowledge and have 30 months ahead. I think it is impossible to learn things from scratch. People struggle in the exam even they know the knowledge inside out. Any thoughts?
@@edresmn7869 I think that limiting beliefs are why we don't ever reach our goals and continually hold ourselves back. Trust me, the maths I did in school wasn't strong. I can spend time researching and digging up a heap of non-math background profiles of people who scored 700+, but I don't have much time at the moment (INSEAD is intense!)...
Just tell yourself "if I don't know something now, then I just need to work at it and figure it out".
Use logic. If i'm a human and I can do it, and you're a human, then you can do it as well.
i have been studying for 4months now and i’m stuck at 500 idk what to do
Man this gives me hope I just got a 430 on my first mock ,but the problem is I need a good score in 2months at least a 650 I am willing to put in 8 hours a day I just can’t give it two years etc if you can tell me in a nutshell just like the best one strategy to go for the next two months that would mean the world to me I spent money on Egmat and it was such a waste tooo much details headed nowhere please please please if you can reply I also have started to meditate as am so stressed about this exam and anxiety which is affecting my prep and making me feeel sooo dumb and lost
Hi Nitish,
You need to be honest about your expectations. 430 to 650 is doable with the right approach.
Have a look at my second video in which I meticulously explain how to achieve your desired score. I literally discuss what you need to do and if i could go back and start my journey again I'd use the approach in that video.
Here it is czcams.com/video/KGY5vxqMeYk/video.html
Hi Nitish
Have a look at Dan's 2nd video but with a limited amount of time the most important thing is to avoid forgetting. Cramming lots of topics one after another helps in the short term but can lead to quickly forgetting. That's where the Lietner System comes in. Helps prioritise your gaps and builds in spaced repetition! Feel free to reach out jesse@sandboxlearning.com.au
Hey, did u get ur exam done? How was it? Hope u have got 650
What a motivating story - thank you! How old were you at the time?
I have two months until final deadline for this years university masters application. I´ll try my best but I might have to apply for next year. Bit worried since I´ll be 26 when entering masters next year.
MND thank you! You’re still quite young. I I started when I was 25 or 26 if I recall correctly
In the GMAT Quant section, which area of math did you regard as the most difficult?
Hey, I think Number Properties has the steepest learning curb even though it isn't the hardest. The hardest in terms of pure subject matter is likely Combined Probability/ Permutation & Combination problems, but those problems don't come up often even when you're doing well on the test.
Hey mate, such an inspiring story! Wondering if you are looking to sell your Powerscore book? I live in Sydney too, I can pickup from you from anywhere. Cheers
Yes I am lol! I'm looking to sell all my resources. Drop me a line at dan@hubertnco.com as soon as you can as
@@Dcummins just did, Cheers
i got a 420 on my mock test, and i'm freaking out because I am to write my official GMAT in june.
Is it possible to score a 700+ in such short time.
Honestly its tough man. I can't answer this question based on this information alone tbh
Great video! Very inspirational! I have some personal questions to ask you in regards to studying for the GMAT. May I have your email, so I can email my question/situation to you? Thank you for sharing your experience!
Yes depending on what you ask!
@@Dcummins Thank you for your response! I was just curious though, in terms of furthering my FAST MATH skills, do you have any links/blogs/words of wisdom in terms of math/algebra/word problems/geometry/number properties/permutation/combination/probability/sets formulas that you recommend that I should memorize or atleast put into flashcards? I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter. Thank you for all your help thus far!
@@ervinmercado1937 You can practice mental math here: arithmetic.zetamac.com/
Its a great site. Just choose the settings you wish. For multiplication tables just stick to integers between 1 and 18 max.
In terms of those concepts you mentioned. That just takes practice. Literally just practice sets of questions to get better at them.
Hey thanks for the useful tips, for the books that you listed I see that CR Bible has topics based on most frequently asked questions on the GMAT. Is it sufficient to review just that or all the topics ? I'm trying to take my exam in Nov. and would be glad if you can help. Thanks
Yes. Over recent years some questions aren't as relevant - such as Parallel Reasoning- and other questions have taken greater priority - such as Evaluate the Argument.
@@Dcummins Thanks a lot mate!
Today I scored 400
On an official test? Or was it a third-party?
@@Dcummins on an official test
Great video. Do you think it's possible to prepare from 0 to get to 600+ in 4 weeks full time (no work/school)? Also my math skill is bad(coz I forgot most of it after years of working.).
You need to take a diagnostic test (a test from the official gmat website) to see where you stand in order for me to answer that. In most cases it’ll take a few months. Take the test then if I were you I’d jump onto target test prep immediately
@@Dcummins Got it. Thanks for the reply!
What is the streaks method ? Pls explain
twice , I choked ,but I don't know how I could get 700+ each time. Honestly, i was expecting 750+ if i could perform normally ,but i choked badly ....i thought i might get 500
Hi, I'm studying quant from ttp currently - its really helpful. But for verbal I just don't know where to go! I'm at V23 right now. Please suggest a good platform
Hi Anukriti,
TTP actually has a very good verbal platform. I highly recommend their SC. You should most certainly complement concepts that you learn with OG questions associated to each topic that you learn.
Thank you for your response! What's your feedback for egmat? I mean i have read so many good things about their sc module online but it almost feels too good to be true :(
Its hard for me to give advice as I don’t know your current level of english. In my second video I mention that non-natives may find e-GMAT beneficial. To me it wasn’t great for a few reasons: 1. There aren’t many questions or high quality questions for verbal; 2. To a native English speaker, hearing another dialect of English, namely Indian-English, can be frustrating at times because, for example, articles are omitted e.g. instead of saying “lets go to THE office” the instructor would say “Let’s go to office” - this is incredibly annoying to listen to as its actually not correct; 3. The platform felt overhyped and over marketed - I think there a number of fake reviews and I probably fell victim to this.
In saying this, many non-natives find it beneficial, hence why i recommended it to non-natives only. Perhaps give it a try and see what your think?
Its hard for me to judge my level of English.All i can say is that I'm comfortable in it. I guess when it comes to test, solving a verbal question under time restrain gets to my nerves because of which i generally end up choosing answers which "sound" right. I've been practicing, but my score is not increasing from a V23
@@anukritimunshi
Hi Anukriti,
I am at same stage now not able to find a good way to proceed in verbal section. Have you tried EGMAT? Your reply will be really helpful
How did u allocate time for each section? did u spend a week on quant and then a week on verbal ?
I'm glad you asked. I'm literally in the process of creating another video just on this topic! Stay tuned...
Dcummins Thank you! Looking forward to it.
Depends on how much time you have. If you have 6 months or so, start by building up the fundamentals using streaks. This will give you a solid base but you'll quickly forget things. After that use Leitner to keep everything fresh and avoid forgetting.
Hi Dan,
I am so stressed because of my Rc performance. My accuracy is approx 60 percent on 650 level RCs...and I am taking roughly total 4 to 5 min extra when I solve 4 rcs during my practice.
Please please give me so tips.
I am So frustrated right now I feel like I can never achieve dream.
I know my mistakes , but still unable to improve on them
How did you worked for rcs ?
Do u used to solve 700+ marks rcs as well ??
What was ur strategy?
Please help!!!
Don't worry about time until you nail your accuracy. Drop down to sub-600 level passages, and i suggest you do them untimed.
If you know your mistakes, then you must be conscious of them each time you do a question - even if you need to take 10 minutes+ to solve just one question. The pathway to eradicating mistakes is by first identifying them, second working on them, then third always be conscious of them even after you've developed the weakness.
Its hard for me to be very specific on here. Perhaps email me
Hi Dan, Please share your email...I always eliminate 3 wrong answers but then I choose the trap answer .. somewhere my mind keep saying u r falling for the he trap... But still ends up doing it... Because the answer look so close to right answer.... Does this happened to u , if yes, how did u overcame the problem
@@anshurana4703 dan@hubertnco.com
Inspiring, do u think it will easy to get 500 for non native English speakers
Thank you. Anyone can get a 700+ score. You just need to follow the right approach - a topic-by-topic approach to learning the GMAT. That is the only guaranteed way to get a 700+ score provided you are mentally rock solid i.e. don't self-doubt and don't screw yourself over with anxiety
i just need 550 damn. ughhhh
your story encourage
what headphones are you wearing
Sony WH1000XM5s ... The M6s are great!
Hey Dan, I just scored a 440 on a practice with no prep at all. My goal is 700 like you, and I'm currently in my undergrad. How long should I plan to prep? Do you think I could do it while studying 2 hours a day for ~6 months, or do I need longer? I see you took like 3 years but it wasn't all focused.. if I start with TTP and start extremely focused will it take me less time?
Hi Connor
Thanks for your comment. First thing I need to mention is that I studied in many of the worst ways possible in the beginning. I might have to do a whole video on that alone, but my debrief with GMATNinja covers a good chunk of what i did wrong (if not in this video).
Did you finish the entire test? You need to be aware that if you don’t finish the test your score is marked down worse than if you had guessed questions incorrectly.
Assuming you did finish the test, then you will need to set aside at least 6 months. It’s not easy, but if you use TTP you will be taking the most effective approach.
Short answer to the time duration question: No. 2 hours per day probably won’t cut it.
I think you need to start slow to build the habit, then hit the study hard (4-5 hours per day) over the weekend.
Then, ramp up your study duration week by week (add 0.5 hours per day with a maximum of 4 hours study per week day and 6-8 hours per weekend.
Given that you are in undergrad, I suggest that you use your breaks/ perhaps tailor your course to allow you to do the GMAT. For example, can you space out or condense some subjects? Is there a subject that you can push to a summer or winter school class that you would have otherwise studied during semester? If you reduce to 3 subjects per semester that will probably help ease up some time.
The key thing i need to emphasize is that this test is a point in time assessment of your skills. It’s not something that can be crammed (unless you are already scoring high). Think of the GMAT as if you are a rookie bodybuilder working your way up to a 225lb for 31 reps bench press. You don’t start out repping 225, you start off with the bar, build your muscle, build consistency and good habits such as eating protein + drinking water, and practice mindfulness to eliminate ego and be unshakeable come test day.
It’s worth noting that you can and will get frustrated at this test. It will humble you in the process. Make sure you do something you love once a day - whether that be hanging out with friends or exercising or playing COD in the evenings.
@@dcummins22J Thanks so much for your detailed response so quickly! Everything you said makes a lot of sense in terms of strategy.
I'm not sure how school works outside of the US, but for me I have to take 15 credits a semester to graduate on time. 15 credits on average means I spend about 30 hours a week in class and studying. If you recommend, I could take 12 credits starting in the spring semester (January-May) to allocate additional studying time for the GMAT, but the trade off is I would have to take 18 credits in a later semester to balance it out. I do have breaks for holidays, however, I will have a month off of school in December, and a 3 month break this summer, but I was hoping to get a full time internship during that time.
Would you recommend I buy and start TTP now and start slowly, or should I start in December when I have more time off of school?
Some good news is that my verbal was already decent, just my quant is horrible, (V34, Q17) and I am already accustomed to standardized tests. I got a perfect score on the ACT Reading and Writing sections just two years ago, so with some review I feel confident for GMAT Verbal, although I know it's not the same. Thanks again for your response!
@@connormoore5686 In Aus we take 4 subjects per full-time semester or 24 credits per semester, 2 semesters per year, but we have the option of taking summer and winter school (during time otherwise spent on breaks). I just meant if there was a way you can better balance your time by spreading your undergrad study load out throughout the year then it would perhaps alleviate some pressure on GMAT study time, but don't don't delay finishing your degree for the GMAT.
Perhaps start while studying your undergrad and just ramp up over holidays and breaks. Given your underlying strength, i think you'll find that you'll get up to scratch quickly. Quant is significantly easier to improve than verbal, but it dulls off quicker if you don't consistently practice it.
How did you get 430??
- Took a Manhattan test
- didn't finish verbal
- got many wrong
- had no idea what the GMAT was or anything about it, I just took the test
I’m currently in grade 12 and I gave a mock gmat paper on the official website just for the fun of it to see where I stand. I got a scaled score of 690 and 86 percentile. Is it good enough for my age?😬
What is your age if you don't mind?
I turned 30 this year.
@@Dcummins I am already 34 and will be turning 35. Still struggling with GMAT. Does INSEAD prefer candidates in mid 30s. or will it be difficult? Going through the same phases of preparation as you did. Just don't want to give up on GMAT.
@@dipsy241 I honestly can't say man. I imagine you can but you should reach out to the admissions teams
What's your age?
At the time of this reply, I'm 29. I completed the GMAT when I was 28 and started in when I was 26 (from memory).
I still feel 21 though :)
Ok. I am 32 , but not sure if I will be a good profile to be accepted by mba schools. I heard that many mba schools don't prefer candidates above 30 yrs.
@@anuraggupta-zu1ly So i'm assuming that you're referring to full-time programs. From what I know, the further into your 30s you are the more likely a school is to recommend that you do their Part-time / Executice MBA programs.
US Schools notoriously have a lower average class age than do European schools or anywhere else.
Its best to speak with an admissions consultant on the matter.
@@Dcummins - Thanks for reply.
Where did you access the practice tests?
MBA.Com for official GMATPrep Tests - 6 tests, and you can take them twice
Veritas for Practice Tests - 7 CATs
GMATClub for Quant - 25 Tests or so (I just used them for quant)
Manhattan (I took only verbal sections)
I took Economist tests at the beginning of my prep, but I wouldn't recommend them.
@@Dcummins thanks that was very helpful