Introduction
Hi everyone! I recently scored 755 (Q:88, V:90, DI:85) on the GMAT Focus and wanted to share my journey, including lessons from my first attempt (685, Q:83, V:86, DI:83) and how I worked to improve my score. I hope this debrief provides actionable insights for anyone aiming to hit their target score.
First Attempt: 685
I went into my first GMAT attempt with high expectations but came out with a 685. While my verbal performance was strong, I struggled significantly with the quantitative section. I ran out of time on the quantitative section and had to guess on the last few questions, which severely impacted my quant score. My study routine was generalized, relying on completing question banks without identifying specific weak areas. While I worked hard on understanding concepts, I underestimated the importance of test-taking strategies, such as pacing and educated guessing. This score was a wake-up call. I knew I had to rethink my approach if I wanted to achieve a top score.
The Retake: 755
After my initial setback, I took a more structured and disciplined approach using TTP's resources to improve.
Quantitative Section (From 83 to 88):
To address my quant challenges, I tracked my mistakes during practice tests using TTPs tools. This helped me identify patterns, such as my struggles with work problems and DS inequality questions. I practiced timing rigorously using TTPs timed practice sets. I also focused on medium-to-hard level questions to simulate real test conditions, with TTPs comprehensive quant question bank being particularly helpful. Additionally, I shifted more time to mastering DS questions. TTPs logical frameworks and answer explanations helped me learn from my mistakes and avoid future careless errors.
Verbal Section (From 86 to 90):
For verbal, Ive always been strong, but I worked on improving my timing and accuracy on harder questions. TTPs verbal modules and strategies were instrumental in helping me improve on higher-difficulty questions. Practicing extensively through TTP made me very comfortable with the verbal section overall.
Practice Tests and Analytics:
Practice tests and analytics were critical to my preparation. I took four full-length practice tests using official GMAT resources in addition to the practice sets on TTP. Reviewing every mistake and understanding why I missed certain questions was key to improving. TTPs analytics tools helped me track progress and adjust focus areas accordingly.
Test Day Experience
On the day of the test, I felt much more confident thanks to my preparation through TTP. For the quant section, I maintained steady pacing and used elimination strategies effectively for DS questions. I finished with about 2 minutes to spare. For verbal, I breezed through, finishing with a perfect score. The consistent practice with TTP's verbal materials made the actual questions feel straightforward. During the breaks, I relaxed and cleared my mind. Staying calm and focused was critical to sustaining energy throughout the test.
Key Takeaways
The GMAT Focus requires strategy. Focus on pacing, question types, and systematic practice. Identify and address your weaker areas. Practicing under test-like conditions helps build stamina and confidence for the actual test. Lastly, leverage the analytics that TTP provides to understand where you should focus your studying efforts.
Final Words
The journey from 685 to 755 required dedication and smart preparation, but it was worth the extra effort. Good luck, and feel free to reach out with any questions!
Hi everyone! I recently scored 755 (Q:88, V:90, DI:85) on the GMAT Focus and wanted to share my journey, including lessons from my first attempt (685, Q:83, V:86, DI:83) and how I worked to improve my score. I hope this debrief provides actionable insights for anyone aiming to hit their target score.
First Attempt: 685
I went into my first GMAT attempt with high expectations but came out with a 685. While my verbal performance was strong, I struggled significantly with the quantitative section. I ran out of time on the quantitative section and had to guess on the last few questions, which severely impacted my quant score. My study routine was generalized, relying on completing question banks without identifying specific weak areas. While I worked hard on understanding concepts, I underestimated the importance of test-taking strategies, such as pacing and educated guessing. This score was a wake-up call. I knew I had to rethink my approach if I wanted to achieve a top score.
The Retake: 755
After my initial setback, I took a more structured and disciplined approach using TTP's resources to improve.
Quantitative Section (From 83 to 88):
To address my quant challenges, I tracked my mistakes during practice tests using TTPs tools. This helped me identify patterns, such as my struggles with work problems and DS inequality questions. I practiced timing rigorously using TTPs timed practice sets. I also focused on medium-to-hard level questions to simulate real test conditions, with TTPs comprehensive quant question bank being particularly helpful. Additionally, I shifted more time to mastering DS questions. TTPs logical frameworks and answer explanations helped me learn from my mistakes and avoid future careless errors.
Verbal Section (From 86 to 90):
For verbal, Ive always been strong, but I worked on improving my timing and accuracy on harder questions. TTPs verbal modules and strategies were instrumental in helping me improve on higher-difficulty questions. Practicing extensively through TTP made me very comfortable with the verbal section overall.
Practice Tests and Analytics:
Practice tests and analytics were critical to my preparation. I took four full-length practice tests using official GMAT resources in addition to the practice sets on TTP. Reviewing every mistake and understanding why I missed certain questions was key to improving. TTPs analytics tools helped me track progress and adjust focus areas accordingly.
Test Day Experience
On the day of the test, I felt much more confident thanks to my preparation through TTP. For the quant section, I maintained steady pacing and used elimination strategies effectively for DS questions. I finished with about 2 minutes to spare. For verbal, I breezed through, finishing with a perfect score. The consistent practice with TTP's verbal materials made the actual questions feel straightforward. During the breaks, I relaxed and cleared my mind. Staying calm and focused was critical to sustaining energy throughout the test.
Key Takeaways
The GMAT Focus requires strategy. Focus on pacing, question types, and systematic practice. Identify and address your weaker areas. Practicing under test-like conditions helps build stamina and confidence for the actual test. Lastly, leverage the analytics that TTP provides to understand where you should focus your studying efforts.
Final Words
The journey from 685 to 755 required dedication and smart preparation, but it was worth the extra effort. Good luck, and feel free to reach out with any questions!