Study and Strategy questions relating to the GMAT.
cooper2248817
 
 

verbal

by cooper2248817 Sat Sep 13, 2008 2:12 am

My problem may be typical of most test takers. After finishing the quant i am so mentally exhausted that I don't even want to do the verbal section. I end up quitting the practice test to see my results for the quant. I typically score in the mid 40s on the quant.

The verbal section has usually been my weakest area, scoring in the mid 30s and I feel like I need to put a lot more focus on it.

Any tips on how to remain focus on the second half of the test and push myself.

Thanks
StaceyKoprince
ManhattanGMAT Staff
 
Posts: 9361
Joined: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:05 am
Location: Montreal
 

by StaceyKoprince Mon Sep 15, 2008 10:33 pm

First, you've actually got to finish the test in one sitting, regardless of the score. You don't learn how to run a marathon in a day - it takes practice to build up your stamina.

First: practice the "half-marathon" regularly. On study days, study for 2 hours straight - one 10-min break. Do a set of questions (maybe 20 questions for 40 minutes). Then spend the remaining time reviewing those questions. If, at some point, you need a break, take it - but no more than 10 minutes. In general, keep the "mental stamina" going for the whole 2 hours to train yourself.

Then, every couple of weeks, practice the full marathon - the practice test (with essays).

Think about what kinds of foods and drinks give you long-term energy. (Generally: complex carbohydrates, protein, and fat) Things like peanut butter or tuna on whole grain toast. Energy bars (but not the kind with tons and tons of sugar). Eggs and whole grain toast. (Whole grain toast in general is good for the complex carbs.) Fresh-squeezed fruit juice. That kind of stuff.

On your breaks, have a little something to eat and drink. Get up and walk around. Stretch and touch your toes. Do a couple of jumping jacks. Who cares if someone stares at you in the waiting room of the test center? :)
Stacey Koprince
Instructor
Director, Content & Curriculum
ManhattanPrep