For thousands of individuals each year, getting the best score possible on the GMAT is essential. A high test score can be the key to getting into a top 20 MBA program and a successful career in business. Here are three strategies to seriously consider implementing to help you score high on the GMAT.

  1. Brush Up on Statistics

The GMAT wasn’t designed to be easy, but brushing up on statistics is a great strategy to employ to help you score well. If you’re currently a student, you may consider auditing a statistics course to review some of the more difficult concepts. If you’re already a working professional, consider purchasing a college introductory textbook on stats or some other review guide. Feeling confident about your ability to navigate stats is essential for answering business and economics related questions, and also getting the highest score possible on test day.

  1. Read Lots

If it’s one thing that prospective GMAT test-takers neglect, it’s studying for the verbal section of the exam. While the quantitative section is incredibly important, university admissions committees like to see that applicants have the communication skills they’ll need to be great at business. After all, business people are expected to communicate daily by phone, through email, etc. Improving your verbal score can be as simple as reading extensively. Doing this will help you improve your vocabulary, your reading speed, as well as your comprehension. Reading lots is a strategy that should not be overlooked when preparing for the GMAT.

  1. Take Practice Exams under Pressure

When taking the GMAT, you’ll definitely feel pressure to do well; however, you’ll also have cameras all around monitoring you while you take the exam. This can add significant stress to test-takers who are used to taking practice exams in a school or public library. In order to be well prepared on the day you take the GMAT, one strategy you can implement is to occasionally take practice exams in more crowded places. This could include coffee shops, your apartment complex’s lobby, or some other place that’s sure to have people in close proximity to you. This strategy can help you adapt to high pressure situations and help you develop the nerves you need to calmly take the GMAT.