What is the best way to study for the GMAT? (Order, time, resources, etc.)?

Question

N Negi · Accepted Answer

he best way to study for the GMAT is to sort out what you need to do and what not Start with a diagnostic test in the first two days. This tells you where you stand and helps you decide what needs the most attention.
Once you know your weak spots, begin your prep with foundational concepts. If you&rsquo;re weak in Quant, focus on Number Properties and Word Problems. For Verbal, start with Sentence Correction &mdash; it&rsquo;s easier to improve with practice. Study one main topic per week and revise on weekends.
In terms of time, 2&ndash;3 hours a day on weekdays and 4&ndash;5 hours over the weekend is a solid plan. Use one reliable resource &mdash; like the GMAT Official Guide, Magoosh, or Target Test Prep &mdash; instead of jumping between too many platforms.
Finish your prep with 4&ndash;5 full mock tests in the last 2&ndash;3 weeks. Review them carefully. What matters is not how much you study, but how clearly you understand where you&rsquo;re improving and where you&rsquo;re stuck. That&rsquo;s how you move closer to a 700+ score.
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S Raghav · Answer

You don&rsquo;t need a perfect schedule to do well on the GMAT &mdash; you just need a clear plan that fits your life.
Start by understanding the four sections: Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, and AWA. Focus first on Quant and Verbal, as they have the biggest impact on your total score. A good order for most students is: start with Quant basics, then build up Verbal, and keep rotating between them. Once you feel steady, begin mock tests every 10&ndash;12 days.
As for resources, stick with trusted names like OG (Official Guide), GMATWhiz, e-GMAT, Mentr-me or Target Test Prep. They offer structured lessons and help you track your progress. A study window of 3&ndash;4 months works best for most people, with 2 hours a day on weekdays and more on weekends if possible.
What matters most is showing up every day  even short sessions add up. Keep it simple, stay focused, and adjust your plan as you go. That&rsquo;s what gets results