Gather all study materials for the GMAT and register to take the exam. Make sure to select or opt for a date that is far enough away that you will have ample time to properly and thoroughly study. Have all study materials ready to go before beginning to study. Make flashcards for all test questions and topics that are outlined and covered in the exam. Download or get a copy of the free study software available to those registered to take the GMAT. Locate potential study groups located closest to you by talking to the college admissions officer or career counselor at the university where you will be studying or applying for management or graduate classes.
Make a schedule of the days and times that you work. Make sure to include all mandatory work days, potential overtime hours and other blocks of time when you will be required to work. List all days and times on the blank calendar and note all times for at least three to six months. Remember that studying on a part-time basis for the GMAT will take more time. Use one color to note work commitments.
Go back through the calendar and note, in a different color, the additional time commitments and constraints that you have. Make sure to list and note all routine events and occurrences. Add already scheduled appointments and events as well. Include doctor appointments, family responsibilities and other tasks that will take up your time. Make sure to be as thorough as possible so that you can clearly see which slots of time you have available for fully focused GMAT studying.
Go back through your filled-in calendar and start adding blocks of time that you agree to devote solely to GMAT studying. Keep in mind that you do not want to overextend yourself; therefore, try not to schedule too many things for one day or another. For example, if Monday you work 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and then have a family event between 6 and 8 p.m., know that you may not be able to make time for studying that day once you take into consideration eating, sleeping and general household duties. Know that you will not always be able to fit studying in every day or even as often as you prefer.
Add the study blocks to your four- to six-month calendar. Make sure to make copies of the calendar and hang one in a visible place, such as your kitchen or office, to continually remind you of when you need to study to stay on track. Add the study blocks to your online scheduling tool, application or program if you utilize one. Add group study times to your calendar as well if you have found a group that you will be participating in and if the times and dates coincide with your schedule. Make sure to update the schedule as needed when other commitments arise.
Follow the study schedule outlined on your calendar. View your study times for GMAT preparation as being mandatory. Do not skip study times, and do not view GMAT studying as being optional. Know that you must study in order to pass the exam with a high enough score to secure admission to the college or program of your choice. Understand that if you fail the exam, you will need to re-register and pay for the exam again until you have passed the test successfully.