How I have improved my GMAT FE score from 665→715.
665 on attempt 1. 685 on attempt 2 (structured prep, mocks showing 700+). 715 on attempt 3 (V86, Q90, DI80).
The difference between attempts 2 and 3? Not studying more. Learning to not panic.
Attempt 1 - (665: V81, Q86, DI82)
YouTube videos, OG questions, zero structure. I knew concepts but had no systematic approach. Spent 7-8 minutes reading RC passages trying to memorize everything. Rushed through questions. No time management strategy.
What Actually Fixed Things
Verbal (V81→V86):
- Learned "active reading" and stopped “passive reading” for RC - focus on author's purpose and not try to memorize the information
- Understood WHY approaches work, not just what to do
- Practiced in sets of (relaxed time → standard time)
- Tracked patterns: I was re-reading passages unnecessarily and rushing certain question types
- Result: Went from running out of time to finishing with 2-3 min left
Quant (Q86→Q90):
Not about learning new math. 100% fixing behavioral issues:
- Stopped rushing through "easy" questions – thinking they are simple. Solved every question with the same level of focus
- Wrote out every algebra step (no mental math)
- Highlighted key words ("must," "could," "except") before solving
- One sectional every 5-7 days to maintain sharpness
DI (DI80):
Full transparency: ended lower than my first attempt's DI82 and practice DI83-85. Test day curveballs happen.
What helped in prep: Tracked accuracy by subsection, found DS was my weak spot (55% vs 85% on DS), focused 60% of DI time there. Don't waste time on areas you're already strong.
The 685 Gut Punch (Attempt 2 - October)
Mocks showing 700+. Final score: 685.
I was confused. I'd improved, got perfect Quant... but it wasn't the 700+ I expected.
The problem? After nailing Quant, I put too much pressure on myself in Verbal. Started second-guessing, spending too long on questions, then rushing others.
Final Push (Attempt 3 - 715)
Two weeks off. Then:
- Practiced mindfulness before mocks (deep breaths, stay present)
- Treated final 3 mocks as "dress rehearsals" for managing nerves
- Test day: trusted my prep, stayed calm
- Result: 715 (V86, Q90, DI80)
Final Tips
- Structure beats random content consumption
- Track your weaknesses by subsection - focus time on actual gaps
- Behavioral issues (rushing, calculation errors) are real score killers
- The mental game is 50% of this test
If you're stuck in the 600s with solid fundamentals, your issue is probably execution, not knowledge. Fix your approach, track patterns, and manage test day nerves.
All the best
Posted Oct 28, 2025, 4:58 PM UTC