How to crack GMAT exam in First attempt – The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) tests your qualitative and quantitative reasoning skills; it assesses how well you can logically structure your answers and think strategically. The GMAT exam is one of the most widely accepted test scores in MBA and business schools; they use GMAT scores to evaluate your ability to pursue the course/ program you want. Additionally, you are not expected to know very high-level advanced information as you would be tested on your fundamentals. They want to see how solid your foundation is. With preparation and dedication towards exam preparation, there is no doubt that you can crack the GMAT exam and achieve your target score!
GMAT Exam Pattern
Firstly, you have the flexibility to take the GMAT exam online or in person, and there is no difference between any of the procedures. Secondly, the GMAT exam is split into three sections, on which you are tested: quantitative, verbal, and data insights. The exam is 2 hours and 15 minutes long, where 64 questions in total are covered. Each section is 45 minutes long, with 21 questions in the verbal section, 23 in the quantitative section, and 20 in the data insights section. You can also take an optional 10-minute break, and you are allowed to approach each section in any order you prefer. This means you have a lot of test-taker freedom when completing the GMAT, putting you in control of your success!
This is a brief overview of what skills are covered in each of the sections, as well as some specific question types that you will find in the sections:
Quantitative Section
- Math skills
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Statistics
- Arithmetic
Problem-solving (PS): you will be given a question and five possible answers to choose from.
Verbal Section
- Analysis of arguments and information
- Standard English writing
- Critical reading skills
Critical reasoning: you are given some statements/ an argument/ discussion and will be asked to analyse using logical thinking to make an assumption, conclusion, evaluation, or resolution.
Reading comprehension: You will be presented with a comprehension relating to an academic topic concerning business, social science, or economics and then asked 3 to 4 questions. They want to test your reading skills, critical thinking abilities, and ability to make educated inferences about the text.
Data insights section
- Interpreting and analysing graphs and tables
- Data analysis
- Reading comprehensions
Data sufficiency: You are being tested to see whether the data given is sufficient for the problem that needs to be solved. You are given a question and two data statements, and you must determine if this data is enough to resolve.
Table analysis: You are given a table containing data and asked to solve one related problem.
Graph interpretation: data is presented graphically, and the aim is to understand what is being shown logically. You must then complete questions related to the data, usually in a fill-in-the-blank form.
Two-part analysis: you are given two questions and 5-6 options to choose from to answer each question.
Multi-source reasoning: two or three tabs of info containing text, tables and other visuals are given. Based on this information, you will need to solve three separate problems. Study in USA without GMAT.
When should you take the GMAT?
Taking the GMAT two or three months before starting your desired course or program would be best. This ensures enough time between exam taking and receiving results to determine whether you will be accepted. The exam scores are valid for five years, so taking the exam at an appropriate time is essential. Depending on when the MBA or business program starts, align your timeline accordingly. It’s also worth noting that your starting and target scores will influence how early you should prepare for the GMAT. Toppers spend around six months studying and preparing for the exam!
How is the GMAT Scored?
Each of the three sections is reported on a scale between 60-90 points, and the total marks for the GMAT range from 205 to 805 points. In India, the average GMAT score is approximately 650. It is important to be aspirational and acknowledge certain factors when setting a personal target score. These factors include whether you’re applying to a top-10 program, if you should aim for a goal of 645 or higher, how prepared you are in general with the time frame you have, and your current score. A benefit of the GMAT scoring system is that you can receive your score 3-5 days after completing the exam, so there is no long waiting period, and you can submit these scores to the program you want to apply to relatively quickly!
GMAT Exam Fees
The current cost of the GMAT exam in India is INR 22976 for completion in an examination centre and INR 25055 for completion online.
Exam Attempts
The GMAT exam can be reattempted up to five times per year and only eight times in a lifetime.
Cracking GMAT Exam in the first attempt
To perform well in any exam, you must thoroughly know the content and exam technique; knowing how to answer the questions can help make the exam feel much more manageable. Also, knowing your strengths and weaknesses will undoubtedly help you figure out which areas you need to spend more time focusing on and improving on. Here are some top tips and strategies to effectively prepare yourself for the GMAT:
- Start prep with a GMAT diagnostic test to pinpoint areas of strength and improvement.
- Understand the GMAT syllabus and exam pattern
- Work on time management skills
- Start preparing early using official GMAT study material
- Take classes/coaching to prepare
- Attempt lots of timed practice paper questions
- Appear for official mock examinations
Preparing for the GMAT – Resources
Gmat online coaching is considerably more convenient than in-person coaching. You have the comfort of studying from your home, which is less stressful than being face-to-face with a teacher or in a study group. Choose whichever option would work for you, and start preparing early to avoid procrastination. Know about GMAT and GRE in detail.
Tips for preparing to crack the GMAT exam in first attempt
- Take many mock tests
- Create a study plan
- Use official GMAT resources like study guides, prep videos, and practice questions.
- Have a list of topics to focus on and spend more time on.
Gmat Exam Dates 2025
To select the perfect exam date, first consider the earliest application deadline for the MBA or business program and spend time preparing your application. Next, identify when you need the score, and work backwards to find the best date (after considering how long you need to study). In India, the GMAT exams occur in many cities like Surat, Pune, Delhi, Mumbai, etc. These exams generally span between May and August, so depending on where you live/will be taking the exam and an idea of how long the process should take, you should choose a suitable exam date.
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FAQ’s Related to Crack the GMAT Exam in the first attempt
Q1. How hard is the GMAT test?
Truthfully, the GMAT is a challenging exam that pushes you to assess different skills and abilities. However, tough exams are an excellent learning experience and judge of knowledge and potential. Competition is high, but you can crack the GMAT exam in your first attempt with the right strategy.
Q2. What is the most challenging section in the Gmat exam?
The quantitative section is the most challenging part of the GMAT exam, as it requires you to apply high-level mathematical skills within a limited time.
Q3. Does GMAT have a negative marking?
The GMAT does not have negative markings, so marks will not be deducted for any wrong answers.
