First CAT 600. Prep Time

[kohykh]

Hello Everyone,

I just took my first CAT test today (Veritas Free CAT). I am not familiar with the GMAT, I didn't even know the question types. I scored a 600 (37Q/32V 6IR). I took the test very fast, finishing each section about 15-25 min before the time limit.

I have taken the GRE before and scored 164Q (93%) and 159V (80%). I found the verbal section in the GMAT to be much easier. As far as the quantitative section, there were many probability questions I could have answered if I had reviewed the topics before hand.

Question is, how long do you think I need to prep to get a 700+? I am aiming for a 730+ if possible. I just purchased the MGMAT Guided Self Study Course. I would be prepping about 12-15 hours a week, mostly during weekends because of my job.

Thanks for your opinions in advanced!!

[StaceyKoprince]

Most people prep for about 2 to 4 months, so my guess is that you will need roughly that time as well - but, honestly, it varies so much from person to person that I really can't tell you. The best advice I can give you is to just start and do what you need to do until your score gets into the range that you want. :) When your practice tests (taken under official conditions) start to get into the range that you want, then you'll know you're close.

I will mention this: the higher you go, the harder it gets to go even higher. It might take you the same amount of time to go from 700 to 730+ as it takes you to go from 600 to 700.

Take a look at this:
http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index ... ould-i-do/

Pay particular attention to time management and how to study - those are two areas where people tend not to pay as much attention and it really hurts them in the end.

If you'd like, use the below to analyze your most recent MGMAT CAT(s):
http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index ... ice-tests/

Then come back here and tell us the results of your analysis and what you think you should do based on that analysis. We'll tell you whether we agree and advise you further. (Note: do share an analysis with us, not just the raw data. Part of getting better is developing your ability to analyze your results - figure out what they mean and what you think you should do about them!)

I'll start you out with one question. Do you think it's okay to go really fast through each section or do you think you need to change something? Justify your response either way. :)