The verbal section of the GMAT contains 41 multiple choice questions that you must answer in 75 minutes. In order give yourself the best chance of success, aim to do each question in 60 seconds. This will automatically build in time for you to review your answers, and provide you with extra time to spend on the most difficult questions.
Not sure you can meet this goal? Here are some time saving tips:
- Identify the type of question being asked. Questions will take 3 forms; Reading Comprehension; Critical Reasoning, or Sentence Correction, but they appear in random order Make sure you’re applying to proper reasoning to each question.
- Start with the hardest ones. Pick the types of questions you find most difficult and double your practice of those. This will help you focus your efforts and increase your confidence going into the test.
- Practice your short hand. Both Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension are solved faster if you break out the major points of the passage; but don’t let yourself get bogged down. Practice taking points and rewriting them in as few words as possible (think 5 or less)
- Use your ear to eliminate first. This tip applies best to Sentence Correction. Read the sentence to yourself with the available answers. If it sounds awkward, it likely is not the answer you want.
- Learn to love your stopwatch. It’s almost impossible to think critically and keep track of each minute, so make sure you’re practicing against a timer. Using a timer will help you meet your goal of 60 seconds per question, and give you a better sense of how much time has passed while you write – something you’ll need for the exam.
Reading to start timing yourself? Try a Verbal Practice Test to see how you measure up.