Strategy for retaking _from 490 to 600s (1 month)

[leonardo_banegas]

Hi

I already took my GMAT in Feb 23rd and I had a poor 490. I was totally surprised because my practice tests (full simulated conditions) were between 560 to 630.
Feb01st - MCAT1 630 (45,32)
Feb09th - MCAT2 570 (38,30)
Feb13th - MCAT3 620 (43,32)
Feb16th - GMATprep 560 (42,25)
Feb23rd - Official GMAT 490 (33,25)

I am wondering how should I study? I already did the self study plan of Manhattan GMAT, I already did all my homework during the 9 classes.

Therefore, now basically I am just doing a test every 5 days and working in my weakness. As I have time available, I am working 4 hours per day, trying to do 3 session during the day.

Can you please please give me any suggestion in my study plan? if its right? or if Should I modify some study strategy?

Thank you for your valuable help,
Leo

[StaceyKoprince]

I'm sorry you're struggling with the test. The first thing to try to figure out is why your score dropped. Your verbal dropped on your last practice test and then the real test matched that score. Your quant dropped only on the real test.

This article can help you try to figure out what happened:
http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index ... ent-wrong/

Then come back and tell us what you think.

Next, stop taking tests every 5 days. A test gives you a wealth of data about your strengths and weaknesses - and you can't fix all of those weaknesses in 5 days. There's no point in taking another test until you have done something substantial to fix your weaknesses.

Do you have timing problems? I'll assume yes since almost everyone does. Use this to analyze your most recent MGMAT CAT(s):
http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index ... ice-tests/

And this to help with timing:
http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index ... anagement/

Also, this article talks about HOW to study and has links to additional resources:
http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index ... -the-gmat/

My guess is that you are focusing now more on quantity of study (get everything done, do all the problems, take all the tests, etc.) vs. quality of study (what am I learning from each problem? how do I master a particular topic or problem type or individual problem?). This is a common mistake that people make - so we probably need to fix HOW you're studying, not what you're studying.

So, take a look at the above, and then come back with:
(1) what you learned about HOW you need to study and what you need to change compared to how you used to do things
(2) what your current strengths and weaknesse are by content area, question type and timing
(3) what you think you now need to do based on the above

And we'll advise you from there. :)