What to do on GMAT Test Day: Exam Tips and Tricks

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a crucial component of the business school application process. It is a standardized test that measures a candidate’s analytical, quantitative, verbal, and writing skills. The GMAT is used by graduate business schools worldwide to evaluate and admit candidates into their MBA programs. The test can be a source of anxiety for many candidates, but with proper preparation and helpful tips, you can feel confident and ready to tackle the test on test day.

While studying weeks before sitting the exam is essential if you’re out to score well in your GMAT exam, what you do on the exam day does contribute to your success to some extent.

That said, here are exam tips and tricks that will be of great help on the test day. 

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

One of the most important things you can do the night before the test is to get a good night’s sleep. Adequate sleep is essential for optimal cognitive function and can help you perform better on the test. Make sure to stick to your normal sleep schedule as much as possible and avoid staying up late cramming or reviewing. Getting a good night’s sleep will help you feel more alert and focused on test day. It’s worth noting that last-minute study won’t add much to your score. Therefore, make sure you master the concepts and test your exam skills weeks before the test to boost your confidence and avoid sitting up till late trying to learn new content.

Eat a Good Breakfast

Eating a good breakfast on test day is also essential for optimal cognitive function. A well-balanced breakfast that includes protein and carbohydrates will provide you with the energy you need to perform well on the test. Avoid eating heavy or greasy foods that can make you feel sluggish or uncomfortable during the test. Instead, opt for a nutritious breakfast that will give you the energy you need to perform well. Go for protein-rich foods like plain yogurt and those that take time to digest and make you feel full for longer periods, such as oats and fruits. For coffee lovers, it’s advisable to skip it on the morning of the test day as too much caffeine might interfere with your memory process. However, to avoid withdrawal headaches that come with skipping caffeine, it’s advisable to switch to green tea, which contains less caffeine and is good in moderation.

Arrive Early

Arriving early at the test center is essential to ensure that you have enough time to get settled and organized before the test begins. Give yourself plenty of time to find the test center, park your car, and check-in. It’s advisable to arrive about half an hour before your test. Don’t rush and arrive at the last minute, as this will only add to your stress and anxiety. On the other hand, don’t also make the mistake of reaching too early, several hours before the exam as this will add to your nervousness in the process of waiting for the test to start. If you must get to the exam early, you may request the test administrator to allow you to start the exam earlier than scheduled. Finally, when you get to the test center, take some time to relax and get ready for the test.

Review the Format and Timing of the Test

Before test day, it is important to review the format and timing of the GMAT. The test consists of four sections: the analytical writing assessment, the integrated reasoning section, the quantitative section, and the verbal section. Each section has a specific time limit, and it is important to be familiar with the format and timing of each section so that you can manage your time effectively during the test. Remember, time management in the GMAT exam is very essential as it does affect your score in a way. With a good GMAT time management strategy, you should get enough time to answer all the questions on the test, while saving some minutes for revision. 

Use the Breaks Wisely

The GMAT is a long test, and it is essential to take advantage of the breaks provided to you. During the breaks, take the time to stretch, get some fresh air, and clear your head. Avoid discussing the test or specific questions with other test-takers, as this can be a distraction and cause more anxiety. Instead, use the breaks as an opportunity to relax and refocus. In addition to this, you can snack a little bit to re-energize for the next sessions as the exam can be draining.

Use the Process of Elimination

The GMAT is a multiple-choice test, and it is essential to use the process of elimination to your advantage. On test day, if you are unsure of an answer, try to eliminate the answer choices that you know are incorrect. This will increase your chances of guessing the correct answer and can help you save valuable time during the test. As you do this, it’s important to stay as calm and as confident as possible to ensure you’re in the right state of mind while making the guesses. Anxiety and doubts will only increase your chances of making the wrong guesses.

Stay Calm

Staying calm and focused on test day is essential for performing well. Remember that the test is just one component of the business school application process and that you have prepared for it as best as you can. Avoid getting overly anxious or stressed about the test, as this will only negatively impact your performance. Take deep breaths, relax, and remind yourself that you are ready for the test. It’s not the time to discuss concepts with fellow test takers as this will disorient you. Be confident about what you know and be prepared to take the test. 

In conclusion, the GMAT is a crucial component of the business school application process and requires adequate preparation both before and during the exam. Now that you’ve taken your time to study for more than eight weeks, keep the exam tips discussed above in mind as you wait for the test.