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S**L
Gave me a big boost!
I'm not a certified GMAT specialist or anything. Just a student who wants to get into a good PhD program. I did a lot of research about different books and prep courses and eventually thought for $25 why not try this out. A friend recommended it to me as it helped him score in the 99th percentile. I had already taken the two free practice tests and scored a 720 on each of them. I was just looking for a few tips and hoping to get more practice and familiarity with the test.I studied hard for about 4 weeks in between a summer internship and the start of a new semester and was able to complete the book, including 5 of the free practice tests. On each practice test I received either a 710 or a 720. I was resigned to the fact that I would receive a similar score on the test.I took the test about a month ago and scored a 770. The real test was much, much easier than the Kaplan practice tests. I had lots of spare time on the actual test thanks to having worked harder problems with Kaplan and was very confident going into the test. This book may not be the official guide or manhattan but it gets the job done. It's well written, easy to follow, and helpful. I like that it made the actual test feel easy. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone; in fact, I actively do.
B**R
Perfect for GMAT Prep
The Kaplan GMAT book set worked great for me. The material is easy to read and has plenty of questions to get your mind in the right state for testing.The practice tests were a huge part of my studying and probably helped me the most in getting the score I needed to attend Grad school. (MBA)Word of advice: Only buy this book if you are serious about passing the GMAT. This is a self study program and repetition is key.The book also does a great job in TEACHING you basic principles for both verbal and quantitative sections. It gives advice on the writing portion, though, the school I was going for didn't care too much about the writing section (so I didn't study it). The dvd was a great touch too!All in all, I had 1 month to study for the GMAT: 1st practice test I scored a 415. My 1st GMAT score was 540. Not great, but I only studied for a month (less than 55 hours). Great program!
G**)
Solid Mid-Tier Book (No changes since last edition)
If you are new to the GMAT and looking for a quicker prep plan, Kaplan Premier is a good book to work with - it provides a good intro to the test (explains the mechanics, basic principles, gets you familiar with the test structure, etc), has solid strategies that you can use regardless of your level, and finally, comes with 5 Adaptive tests. Think of it a starter camera/computer/car/etc - you don't want to start with anything expensive before you know what you are looking for. On the flip side, this book will last you for 3-4 weeks and most likely will only boost your score by 50-75 points. If you want a greater increase (and have 3 months to study, skip this book and pick a bigger caliber package from Manhattan GMAT or Veritas Prep that have a comprehensive overview of everything GMAT-related).~~~ THE GOOD: ~~~* Quite a few practice questions* Solid material with proven Math and Verbal strategies as well as formulas/etc background* 49 pages covering Integrated Reasoning* 6 Full GMAT Tests (5 are in adaptive CAT format on the online and 1 is in a paper format in the book)* Online practice with additional exercises and quizzes - 18 online drills* Much of general info on gmat has been moved into online video format, called Fast Fact Videos; that helps with learning when you have had too much reading for the day* Great value for the money with 6 Full GMAT tests, practice questions, and many online Quizzes* Good amount of coverage for the INTEGRATED REASONING.~~~ THE BAD: ~~~* Errors - I have spotted a few typos and issues with explanations; I suspect there may be a few more* Access to the online components expires after 6 months. This is the only reason to buy a new book vs used* NO CD/DVD - online content only for Tests* Does not have the depth and width a 700+ score requires* 1,100 Pages and 6 LBS! - not a travel size book~~~ OTHER STUDY OPTIONS & BOOKS ~~~Many applicants, bypass Kaplan Premier completely and head straight for the more specialized books such as the Manhattan GMAT Set of 8 Strategy Guides, Fourth Edition OR Complete GMAT Course Set - 15 Book. These book sets come with 8-15 books that are targeting specific Math and Verbal areas. You have a much better chance getting a 700+ with those book sets (not guaranteed) but they also do require at least 2.5-3 months to cover them. The MGMAT Books come with 6 adaptive online tests. Veritas Prep books come with tests as well BUT only if you purchase from their website (Ugh) Finally, a book you should also now about is the The Official Guide for GMAT Review, 13th Edition (more on that is below)~~~ SOME OTHER THOUGHTS: ~~~* What is a good study plan using Kaplan Premier?My recommendation would be to start with this book, finish it in about a month or so (by this time you will learn all the basics about the test, how it works, what is tested, and general strategies for answering questions). Then, you an figure out what's the best use of your time - you may have reached your target score and can stop or perhaps you are really lacking in Quant or Verbal and need a lot more serious practice.* Will this book give me 700+ score?For the majority of applicants, No. It is not deep enough for most people out of college to refresh the math and verbal fundamentals. You will most likely need other books to help you get there.* How do I get 700 then?There are several options:1. Review each section separately using the Kaplan GMAT Math Workbook and Kaplan GMAT Verbal Workbook2. Thorough/Methodical review of each area - If you have a bit more time, grab the Manhattan GMAT Set of 8 Strategy Guides, Fifth Edition OR Complete GMAT Course Set by Veritas - 15 Book. These books are excellent and are actually used in the classroom setting for their classes, so you are definitely get the top books. If you dont need/want the entire collection, see my review for what stand-alone books to get. This plan is likely to get you a higher score with this section but it will also take up more time (about a month more). Decide on the approach based on your starting position, target score, time you have, and willingness to study math and grammar for months without a break.* Any other books I need to know about?YES. There is one - The Official Guide for GMAT Review, 13th Edition. This book is published by the creators of GMAT and contains real GMAT questions. You should also download the Official GMAT Prep software from GMAC's website (it's free).* What if I have trouble getting through this book? Where can I find help?There are several books that can help you get up to speed with quant and grammar:1. For Quantitative section: Manhattan GMAT Foundations of GMAT Math2. For Verbal Section: Foundations of GMAT Verbal by Manhattan GMATLet me know if you have any questions about the book - I reply to comments!Good Luck,BB, GMAT 750 (q49, v42)
A**E
Excellent GMAT Test Preparation Resource!!
I have been buying item from Amazon for many years, but no product has compelled me to write a review as much as this book did. The Kaplan GMAT Premier 2016 book was essential in my passing the GMAT on my first try. This book does an excellent job of showing what strategies to use to take the test and breaks down every section of the exam. Not only do you get this massive test resource in paper form, but you also get a mobile app, Kaplan website access, and a CD with lessons on each section of the test. Considering the price of the book is so low compared to taking a GMAT Test Prep course, I cannot think of a better deal when it comes to quality vs cost. This book provides plenty of practice questions and very thoroughly prepares you for the exam. I highly recommend it!
R**L
... study for the test and this book did a great job at preparing me
I only had about 1 month to study for the test and this book did a great job at preparing me. It was easy to understand and made studying a breeze. The online quizzes and tests helped me practice in the most realistic way, when I was taking the exam I honestly thought that it looked no different from what I'd seen at home. I have heard great reviews of the Manhattan Prep as well however, if you are seeking a study tool that will speedily help you understand the test, this book will do the trick.
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