Some tips on test taking

Some points on test-taking strategies:

1. Scratch-pad
I have been dividing the "scratch-pad" into two equally spaced columns. When using it without columns, I was wasting a lot of space. In the method with two columns, I am able to use space efficiently and have been able to contain all my Quant workings within 5 sides. I consider this important since exceeding 6 sides would mean requesting for another pad and this would waste valuable time.

[I read about this on someone's blog and I forget whose, so if anyone knows, please put it in the comment box so I can give credit where due.]

2. Verbal Grid
For verbal I have been drawing a Nx5 grid to strike off wrong answers.

A B C D E
X X X O X
X X O X X

This really helps in eliminating confusing choices, and focuses the efforts. I have found this to be especially useful in the SC section.

3. The 1.5/3 minute rule
I don't believe in the 2 minute rule. If it was upto me, I would follow a 1.5 (1 min 30 sec) rule for the first 2/3 of the questions. This does not mean, of course, that you unnecessarily hurry up but just that you keep yourself "tight" during the first 2/3 in terms of time. In my case, I struggle during the first few questions so I waste more time than intended but I pick up in questions down the line.

I advise this because I think it is vital to perform well in the last 10 questions. They make all the difference. Even if you have correctly answered 34 questions correctly out of 37 in Quant but incorrectly answer last 3 questions due to lack of time, you are done in. Also, in the actual GMAT, the level of questions get tougher and tougher so better to reserve 2.5-3 minutes per question for the last few questions. This will also help in getting the pressure off and fighting fatigue.

I do have a theory about the best prep strategy but I will put that down once my score has justified the validity of my lectures!