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How do I Choose the Best GMAT® Books?

By N. Kalu
Updated May 17, 2024
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The best Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT®) books are the ones which have comprehensive reviews of math, verbal, and writing subjects. They should also include practice questions and one or two practice exams with answers and a scoring rubric. GMAT® books usually include an introduction to this important graduate admissions exam, letting potential takers know about the structure of the exam and how the score is determined.

This test is a computer adaptive exam, which means that it is taken on the computer and that it gives you questions based on how correctly you answered previous questions of varying difficulty. Due to this unique feature, using GMAT® books for GMAT® prep can be a great supplement to practicing taking the exam online. Best in-class GMAT® books will include clearly noted sections which outline and review exam topics such as geometry, number properties, critical reading skills, and the basics of English grammar.

It is important to check that the review sections provide accurate information and unique examples of these sort of concepts. For instance, it would be wise to cross-check the geometry information given in the book to geometry information that you find on a trusted math skills website. By doing so you can determine whether the GMAT® book is truly is one of the best. Having examples scattered throughout the review is another way to distinguish a good GMAT® prep publication from an average one.

Throughout these practice sections, outstanding GMAT® practice books will include practice questions similar to the ones that you will find on the real GMAT® exam. These practice questions test your knowledge and retention of critical exam concepts. Good GMAT® books will have thorough explanations to each question. When looking for books to prepare for entrance exams to business school, make sure to check out how the book goes through answers and how clearly the explanations are noted. You want to be certain that you are able to understand the answers so that you can examine why you were unable to get to the correct answer.

If a book does not include at least one practice exam, then you should leave that book on the shelf. The vast majority of GMAT® books include practice exams at the end so that you are able to pace yourself through the questions within the given time limits. Effective GMAT® practice requires that you take these kinds of tests early and often in your test preparation.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

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