Whether you are planning to start preparing for a GMAT exam or have been preparing for a while, you are always looking for strategies to ace the exam. So, in this blog, we will cover the most important things to remember to score well without letting it take a toll on your routines.
The secret to cracking a GMAT exam is not studying for long hours, but studying smart. India’s top GMAT coaches recommend understanding the test modules, building the right mindset, and practicing with a plan, which are the keys to scoring 700+. Here are some powerful, coach-recommended strategies, many of which come straight from LilacBuds experts, one of India’s most trusted GMAT coaches.
Cracking the “Not-so-Secret” Code to the GMAT exam
The GMAT is more than just a test of knowledge; it also tests your cognitive abilities. Top coaches, including those at LilacBuds, help students understand the GMAT’s adaptable nature, viz., your performance impacts the difficulty of upcoming questions, and guessing can sometimes be more damaging than skipping.
Begin by completing a diagnostic test to determine your strengths and weaknesses. Learn to distinguish between trick questions and those that examine essential topics. A solid understanding of the test’s format decreases worry and promotes confidence immediately.
Unlock 80/20: Level Up Your Study Game
Not many people will tell you this secret, but not all efforts are equal. Top GMAT coaches often advise students to rely on the Pareto Principle, which states that 80% of the score comes from 20% of the right efforts. So, instead of mastering every topic, focus on being perfect at high-impact areas.
Maintain an error log where every mistake you make is a data point. Track patterns. Then, practice similar questions until you consistently get them right. Use official GMAT materials to stay aligned with real test standards. Whether you are just starting with preparation or ready to give the exam soon, this strategy saves time and multiplies gains.
Unlocking 700+: Think Like a High Scorer
Many successful achievers cite mental resilience as a competitive advantage, and LilacBuds’ mentors heartily concur. Preparing for a high-stakes exam while attending college or working full-time might be daunting. This is why having the right mindset is half the battle.
Practice positive self-talk, visualizing success, and celebrating tiny victories. Set mini-milestones to track development and view failures as stepping stones, not setbacks. Join study groups or online forums to stay connected and prevent isolation. LilacBuds’ community-based approach ensures students receive ongoing support throughout their prep journey.
Be the Master of your Time
Even the most prepared candidates struggle if they can’t manage time. India’s best GMAT coaches recommend simulating test conditions regularly.
Use a timer:
- Quant: ~2 minutes per question
- Verbal: ~1.5 minutes per question
More importantly, learn when to skip and move on. Not all questions are worth the same effort. Coaches at LilacBuds train students to identify time traps and maintain momentum during the exam.
Get Acquainted with Quant Hacks
Fear of math is one of the biggest hurdles for test-takers. But LilacBuds coaches specialize in helping non-technical students turn Quant from a weakness into a strength.
Here’s how:
- Master the basics before diving into complex problems.
- Use estimation and elimination to speed up problem-solving.
- Practice daily with real GMAT-level questions to build intuition and confidence.
These small, consistent efforts help even humanities or commerce grads tackle Quant with flair.
Sims for the Win: Mock Tests Build Your Edge
A good GMAT coach would emphasise full-length, adaptive mocks under real test conditions to improve both performance and endurance.
But the magic lies in the analysis. What went wrong? Why did you lose time? LilacBuds’ expert coaches help break down each mock, identifying mistake patterns and time leaks. In the last leg, they equip you with a test-day checklist and personalized tips that reduce nerves and help you focus on your strengths.
Your GMAT Breakthrough Starts Here
Working harder is not the way to improve your scores. It’s about working better, smarter, and with the correct resources. LilacBuds has helped hundreds of students succeed on the GMAT by focusing on mindset, strategy, and personalized mentorship.
Whether you’re just getting started or stuck at a plateau, this expert-backed advice from India’s top GMAT mentors, including LilacBuds, can help you achieve your score goals.
Want to ace the GMAT with expert guidance?
Book a free consultation with LilacBuds and start your journey to an epic GMAT Focus score today.