The key to studying for the Graduate Management Admission Test® (GMAT®) is to get started early and pace yourself.

We suggest the following steps:

• Read about the format of the GMAT® exam on mba.com.
• Download and use the free GMATPrep® test-preparation software so you can become familiar with the format used in computer-based testing.
  Review the types of questions on the GMAT® test by looking at sample questions for each section of the test. (Read the mba.com articles on the Analytical Writing Assessment section, Verbal section, and Quantitative section.)
• To study for the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT® test, practice writing an essay using the complete list of AWA topics available on mba.com.
• Purchase a set of three GMAT® Paper Tests for extra practice.
• Depending on how long it has been since you studied math, you may want to do a review of basic math skills.
• If you want more sample questions to study, you can buy Official Guide for GMAT® Review, 11th Edition, the Official Guide for GMAT® Verbal Review, or the Official Guide for GMAT® Quantitative Review. Each Guide has hundreds of real GMAT® questions, answers, and explanations.
• Review and study one section of the test at a time.
• Read the articles under the heading "Test Day" to find out what you will need to bring to the test and what you should expect at the test center.
• Allow for at least four weeks of studying before you take the test.

As you get closer to your test date, try to familiarize yourself with the conditions and timing of the test as much as possible. A great way to do this is by taking the two GMAT® tests included in the GMATPrep® test-preparation software.

Remember, the best thing you can do for yourself is arrive prepared on test day.

Graduate Management Admission Council®, GMAT®, and GMATPrep® are registered trademarks of the Graduate Management Admission Council®. All rights reserved.