How to prepare for the GMAT exam in 2 months with self-prep courses?

Are you aiming to ace the GMAT in just two months? While it’s a challenging goal, it’s definitely achievable with the right strategy and dedication. This GMAT self-preparation guide will walk you through an 8-week plan to help you prepare effectively for the GMAT using self-prep courses. We’ll be using our GMAT Self-Paced Program (SPP), a comprehensive GMAT study plan designed for flexible learning and score improvement in a short time frame.

An 8-Week Plan for GMAT Self-preparation:

Week 1: Laying the Foundation

  • Arithmetic - 1 & 2: Start with basic arithmetic concepts. Focus on operations, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
  • Critical Reasoning - 1: Begin with the basics of argument structure and common question types.

Key Activities:

  • Take a diagnostic test to assess your starting point.
  • Familiarize yourself with the GMAT format and question types.
  • Set up a study schedule, aiming for 2-3 hours per day.

Week 2: Building on Basics

  • Arithmetic - 3: Dive deeper into more complex arithmetic concepts.
  • Critical Reasoning - 2: Practice identifying assumptions and strengthening/weakening arguments.

Key Activities:

  • Review your diagnostic test results and identify weak areas.
  • Start using official GMAT practice questions for each topic.

Week 3: Expanding Your Skills

  • Numbers: Focus on number properties, divisibility rules, and prime numbers.
  • Critical Reasoning - 3: Work on inference and paradox questions.

Key Activities:

  • Take your first full-length practice test.
  • Analyze your results and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Week 4: Algebraic Foundations

  • Algebra - 1: Cover basic algebraic concepts, equations, and inequalities.
  • Critical Reasoning - 4: Practice with more complex argument structures.

Key Activities:

  • Start timing yourself on individual practice questions.
  • Review and reinforce concepts from previous weeks.

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Week 5: Advanced Quant and Verbal

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Week 6: Intensifying your Preparation

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Week 7: Geometry and Advanced Verbal

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Week 8: Final Push and Review

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you're familiar with the test format and have a strong foundation, two months may be enough. However, aiming for a higher score may require more time. Everyone learns at their own pace, so focus on the quality of your study rather than just the duration.

For a two-month study plan, aim to take 4-6 full-length practice tests. Here’s a suggested schedule:

  • Diagnostic test: At the beginning of your preparation
  • Practice test 1: End of Week 3
  • Practice test 2: End of Week 5
  • Practice test 3: End of Week 7
  • Final practice test: A few days before your actual GMAT

For a two-month GMAT self-prep plan, aim for 15–25 hours per week, which breaks down to about 2–3 hours per weekday and 4–6 hours on weekends. However, your ideal study time depends on your starting level, target score, and personal schedule.

By following this plan and dedicating yourself to consistent, focused study, you can make significant progress in your GMAT preparation in just two months. Remember to stay motivated, take care of your physical and mental health, and approach your studies with a positive attitude. Good luck with your GMAT journey!