We’ve written before about retaking the GMAT, and how to know if it’s the right choice for you. While retaking the exam isn’t an uncommon choice, it doesn’t guarantee a better score. In fact, sometimes the whole endeavor can feel like a waste - weeks of work and $250 is a lot to invest for only a 20-point gain! So here are some important things to remember if you choose to take the GMAT a second time.

Do Something New

Neglecting this is one of the biggest mistakes re-testers make. If you continue to study the way you did before your first round with the GMAT, you likely are assuming that your score was lower because you lacked time. For some of you this may be true, but it's more likely that what you need is a different way of studying. This time, get new materials. Also, be intentional in targeting the areas in which you are weak. Think back to your first round of the exam and focus on the questions that stumped you, frustrated you, or took you too long. Receiving a real GMAT score is a distinct advantage in your GMAT prep - now you know how you measure up! So work on your weaknesses to bump the scores that need it most.

Don’t Neglect Your Strengths

It can be tempting, after seeing your scores, to focus entirely on the areas in which you scored lowest. Instead of only targeting your weaknesses, also make certain that you flex your strengths throughout your study. A neglected muscle atrophies; if your GMAT prep is too one-sided, you could lose the ground you gained the first time around. Intersperse your strong subjects throughout your preparation, ensuring that your skills stay fresh and your scores in those areas won’t move backward.

Try Not to Rush Into Round Two

After seeing your initial GMAT scores, you may feel as though you need to retake it as soon as possible. However, just because you can retake the exam a mere 31 days later, doesn’t mean you should. By counting backward from your application deadlines, discern you latest safe testing date and plan to take the exam then. Unless you know you won’t be fresh at that time (thanks to undergrad exams or other impediments to your preparations), a later exam gives you more time to relax and re-study. Rushing into a retest can mean more nerves and less time for improvement.

Call on the GMAT Experts

If your first score was disappointing, or if you just really want to try to better it, there are exceptional resources available to get you where you want to be. Even just viewing the exam from a different perspective can offer you the edge you need to improve. Now that you know where you stand, you can ask good questions and seek out expert insight on the sections that challenge you most.

Whether you are planning to retake the GMAT or are studying for the exam for the first time, EMPOWERgmat has a course for you. With real GMAT questions and practice tests, we’re so confident in our program that we guarantee it. Want to know more? Visit our website for more information today.