Getting Started with GMAT Question Types: A Guide for Your First Week 

Welcome to your GMAT journey! In the first week of your preparation, your primary goal should be to familiarize yourself with the different types of questions you'll encounter on the exam. In an earlier article, Phase 0: Getting Familiarized with the GMAT, we discussed the importance of understanding the GMAT before you dive into serious studying. Now, we’re going to take that a step further by helping you become intimately acquainted with GMAT question types—your number one objective for the first week. 

Understanding the Types of Questions 

The GMAT is composed of various question types, each testing different skills. As you begin your preparation, it’s crucial to start classifying these question styles: 

• Identify General Question Styles: Begin by identifying the broad categories of questions you'll encounter, such as Problem Solving, Data Sufficiency, Sentence Correction, Reading Comprehension, and Critical Reasoning. 

• Create a Screenshot Document: As you work through practice questions, take screenshots of typical questions that represent what a typical question from that type looks like, then save them in a dedicated document. This visual reference will help you quickly recognize and categorize question types as you continue your studies and it will remind you of similar questions during future practice. 

• Assign Memorable Names: Give these question types memorable names or labels. For instance, you might label a specific type of Quant question a Max-Min (an algebra) problem or the Ranks (an overlapping sets) problem. These names will help you recall strategies and common pitfalls more easily. 

Leveraging YouTube Resources 

YouTube is a goldmine of GMAT content, especially for those early in their preparation. Here’s how to make the most of it: 

• Create Playlists: Start by creating playlists from YouTube channels that offer quality GMAT content. This way, you’ll have quick access to a variety of helpful videos whenever you need them. 

• Focus on Verbal and Data Insights: For sections like Verbal and Data Insights (excluding Data Sufficiency), it’s particularly beneficial to watch experts break down how to approach texts and identify key focus areas. Listening to their thought processes can provide insights that go beyond textbook learning. 

• Quantitative and Data Sufficiency Tips: While Verbal and Data Insights benefit from strategic approaches, the Quantitative section, including Data Sufficiency, is more about mastering the underlying theory and specific tricks. Use YouTube to find explanations and walkthroughs of these tricks, but remember that practice and classification of question types are key. 

Get Comfortable with Your Study Documents 

Your study documents will be your best friends throughout your GMAT journey. It’s essential to start using them effectively from the get-go: 

• Track Your Questions and Mistakes: One of the most important habits you can develop early on is tracking the questions you complete and classifying your mistakes. This will help you identify patterns in your errors and guide your future study sessions. For more on how to track and classify mistakes, check out this article. 

• Plan Your Study Sessions: Begin planning your study sessions a few days in advance. Break your study time into 30-minute intervals, specifying what you’ll focus on during each block. This level of organization will help you stay on track and ensure you’re covering all necessary material without feeling overwhelmed. 

Conclusion 

The first week of your GMAT preparation is all about familiarization—understanding the question types, exploring valuable resources, and setting up effective study habits. By classifying and naming question styles, leveraging YouTube for expert advice, and getting comfortable with your study documents, you'll build a strong foundation for the weeks to come. Remember, this initial phase is about exploration and getting comfortable with the exam format, so take your time and focus on understanding rather than speed.