If you are applying to an online MBA program, then you will probably have to take the GMAT. The GMAT verbal section makes up one half of your overall score on the GMAT, so it is important to do well. It is the final section on the GMAT, consisting of three different types of questions: critical reasoning, reading comprehension and sentence correction. You will have 75 minutes to answer a total of 41 questions, so to help you prepare, here are five GMAT study tips.
1. Use Color Coding
Many people have visual memories, so during a test, when you need to recall your study materials, you are likely to do so visually. For sentence correction questions, you will need to note both incorrect and correct grammar. This can be confusing if your study materials include examples of both correct and incorrect grammar in the same color. A helpful GMAT study tip is to write down examples of correct and incorrect grammar in different colors.
2. Take Structural Notes on the Reading Comprehension Passages
It can be helpful to take notes on the reading comprehension passages. Because your time is limited, it is important to take sufficient notes to isolate important details, but be sure not to waste time with extra information. A GMAT study tip is to take notes on the structure of the passage, which can create a mental map of the passage you can recall when answering questions.
3. Focus on the Link Between the Premises and the Conclusions
The key to critical reasoning questions is understanding the links (or lack thereof) between premises and conclusions. That is where the answers are. For example, the correct answer to a “strengthen the assumption” question is identifying something that outlines what the assumption is missing.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice!
Because the verbal section requires general understanding rather than the memorization of specific information, the most valuable way to improve your performance is by practicing GMAT verbal exercises as often as possible prior to testing.
5. Take Full-Length Practice Tests
The final GMAT study tip is to take several full-length practice tests to train yourself to make it through the full test. The verbal section is the final section of the GMAT, so it is important to build up your mental endurance in order to avoid fatigue by the time you begin this section.
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Sources:
E. J. Linden, N. N. Oosterhof, C. Klein, P. E. Downing. Mapping brain activation and information during category-specific visual working memory. Journal of Neurophysiology, 2011; 107 (2): 628 DOI:10.1152/jn.00105.2011
http://www.mba.com/us/the-gmat-exam/gmat-exam-format-timing/verbal.aspx
