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Inside the GMAT

Graduate Management Admission Council

Inside the GMAT is the podcast designed for anyone considering, applying to, or preparing for business school. Whether you're just beginning to explore the MBA path, knee-deep in applications, or focused on mastering the GMAT exam, this show is your inside track to smarter decisions, expert advice, and strategies that work.

Brought to you by GMAC (the makers of the GMAT exam) each weekly episode features candid conversations with admissions leaders, test prep experts, and successful students. You'll get practical tips for excelling on the GMAT, insights into how schools evaluate candidates, and real stories from people who've walked the same path.

From study strategies and score reports to networking, career pivots, and big-picture trends shaping graduate management education, Inside the GMAT brings you the guidance and confidence you need to succeed. If you want the inside scoop on the GMAT, admissions, and how to get the most out of your business school journey, this podcast is for you.

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  • S6 · E24
    September 10 · 1 hr 21 min

    Week 6: How to Actually Review a GMAT Practice Test | GMAT Summer Study Series with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    Spoiler Warning: This episode discusses questions from the second free Official GMAT Practice Exam on mba.com. If you haven't taken that exam yet, there will be some spoilers. What should you do after taking a GMAT practice test? For the final installment of our six-week Summer GMAT prep series, GMC Zach and Menlo Coaching Director of Tutoring Hailey Cusimano go inside the results of a real student practice exam—and discover that the score itself tells only part of the story. After beginning at a 545 and seeing her score fall to 515 after weeks of self-study, this student could easily have concluded that she simply needed more Quant practice, more Verbal practice, or more questions. But a deeper review revealed something very different. Across Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights, the same patterns kept appearing: overinvesting time in difficult questions, rushing when the clock became intimidating, getting lost in unnecessary details, and sometimes solving a problem correctly only to answer the wrong question. Hailey breaks down how to spot those patterns, turn mistakes into actionable strategies, and use practice exams as learning tools—not just score predictors. And the payoff? That same student eventually scored a 715. If you're taking GMAT practice exams but aren't sure what to do with the results, this episode is your guide to finding the story behind your score. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: A practice exam is more than a test-readiness benchmark. It can reveal patterns in your decision-making, pacing, confidence, and strategy. Don't automatically respond to a missed algebra question by doing more algebra—or a missed Reading Comprehension question by doing more Reading Comprehension. Ask why you missed it. Spending five minutes on a question you ultimately miss can create problems well beyond that one question by forcing you to rush later. "Silly mistakes" usually aren't random. Look for the repeatable process that made the mistake more likely. One problem can appear across all three GMAT sections. In this case, reading precision, task orientation, and answering the exact question being asked showed up repeatedly. More practice questions aren't automatically better. Review should produce an actionable takeaway you can apply to a different question later. Don't try to become a subject-matter expert on every Reading Comprehension or Multi-Source Reasoning passage. Understand the structure and return to details when they're actually needed. A rough practice score does not necessarily mean your preparation isn't working. Sometimes the data is exposing a fixable strategy problem. Confidence and momentum matter. A bad stretch in one section can affect how you approach the next. The goal isn't just to collect data about what you're getting wrong. It's to understand what needs to happen differently next time. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to using practice exams effectively 02:07 Case study: Student's initial struggles and data analysis 04:55 Time management insights and question pacing 07:55 Verbal and quantitative section analysis 12:51 Big picture data insights and strategic adjustments 18:02 Common question pitfalls and how to avoid them 21:58 The importance of mental resilience and confidence 26:58 Building effective review habits and strategies 33:00 Final tips for exam day success

  • S6 · E23
    August 27 · 40 min

    Week 5: How to Best Use Practice Exams | GMAT Summer Study Series with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    Practice tests are an essential part of GMAT prep—but are you using them the right way? In Week 5 of our Summer Prep Series, GMAC Zach is joined once again by GMAT expert Hailey Cusimano to explore how candidates can make the transition from learning GMAT concepts to performing under test-like conditions. They discuss why a practice test should be treated as data rather than a verdict on your readiness, when to start taking official practice exams, and how to practice pacing without burning through your limited supply of full-length tests. Hailey also breaks down some of the most common pacing mistakes—including obsessing over a two-minute-per-question benchmark, spending too much time on difficult questions, and unnecessarily double-checking questions you've already solved efficiently. Plus, Zach and Hailey dig into the mental side of the GMAT: how momentum can affect your performance, why trying to predict the scoring algorithm can work against you, and how deliberately introducing manageable stress into your practice can make test day feel more familiar. And if you're following the series, get a practice test ready: next week, Zach and Hailey will walk through how to actually review one. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Your practice test is data—not a verdict. A practice test isn't simply there to tell you whether you're "ready." It can reveal how you behave under pressure, where your pacing breaks down, what strategies survive under time constraints, and where your prep should go next. Don't wait until you feel 100% ready. Waiting for near-perfect accuracy before taking a practice exam can leave you "treading water." Once you've built a reasonable foundation and can learn constructively from your mistakes, practice tests themselves should become part of the learning process. Pacing does not mean spending two minutes on every question. Different questions deserve different amounts of time. Instead of constantly calculating your time per question, Hailey recommends thinking more broadly about high-value versus low-value time across the section. One difficult question can create a pacing snowball. Spending three or more minutes fighting with one problem may not just hurt you on that question—it can force you to rush several questions afterward. Recognizing sunk-cost thinking and knowing when additional time is no longer adding value are critical GMAT skills. Structure gives you something to fall back on under pressure. You can't eliminate every stressful moment from the GMAT. You can develop question-solving routines, pacing checkpoints, contingency plans, and even a consistent pre-test routine so your brain has something familiar to rely on when stress arrives. Stop trying to figure out how well you're doing during the exam. The apparent difficulty of the questions you see isn't a reliable way to judge your performance. Hailey has seen candidates mentally give up on sections they later discovered were among their strongest performances. Your job is the question in front of you—not reverse-engineering the scoring algorithm. Practice being imperfect. You can miss questions and still perform extremely well. Aiming to feel 100% confident about every answer can actually hurt performance if it causes you to overinvest time. Even strong candidates should have strategies for making a thoughtful, educated guess when necessary. Chapters: Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 02:54 Contextualizing practice test data 05:46 Balancing confidence and pacing in practice tests 09:07 The importance of review and reflection 12:14 The mental game: stress and momentum 14:56 Practical tips for consistent practice habits 18:08 Overcoming perfectionism and all-or-nothing mindset 21:07 Benchmarking and adjusting pacing strategies 23:56 The value of review and reflection 27:11 Understanding and managing the scoring algorithm 30:04 Preparing mentally for test day challenges 31:02 The importance of a structured routine 31:52 Handling the mental game and stress management 33:05 Avoiding all-or-nothing thinking in pacing 34:01 Using review to inform pacing adjustments 34:55 The role of contingency plans in test strategy 35:49 Common mistakes and how to correct them 36:49 The importance of resilience and grit 38:11 Final tips for test day readiness 38:51 Upcoming episode preview and closing remarks

  • S6 · E22
    August 20 · 51 min

    Week 4: How to Stop Overthinking Data Insights | GMAT Summer Study Series with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    Data Insights gives you a lot to look at, but that doesn't mean you need to understand all of it. In the latest installment of our GMAT Summer Prep Series, GMAC Zach and Hailey Cusimano of Menlo Coaching break down how to approach one of the GMAT's most distinctive sections without getting lost in the data. They explore why timing can be particularly challenging in Data Insights, how to stay focused on the task in front of you, why unfamiliar subject matter shouldn't scare you, and how having a clear strategy for each question type can make the section feel much more manageable. Plus, Zach puts his own Data Sufficiency skills to the test as Hailey demonstrates how slowing down before you start solving can actually help you work more efficiently. Whether Data Insights is your favorite section or the one you're still trying to figure out, this episode will help you build a smarter approach to the questions in front of you. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Data Insights is a resource-management test as much as a reasoning test. A major challenge is recognizing when a question is consuming too much time and deciding whether the next step is actually worth the investment. You do not need to understand everything you're shown. Start with the task, then seek out the information needed to answer it. Trying to fully absorb every graph, tab, or paragraph upfront can waste valuable time. The bigger danger is often assuming information, not overlooking it. When you catch yourself filling in a gap with outside knowledge or what "seems" true, go back to the information provided and find support you can actually defend. If a Graphics Interpretation question feels like an eye test, you may be interpreting the graph incorrectly. Differences should be defensible from the data rather than dependent on extremely precise visual estimation. On Data Sufficiency, define what would make the information sufficient before you start calculating. Especially on yes/no questions, you do not need one unique scenario—you need to know whether the answer can be determined definitively. You do not have to evaluate Data Sufficiency statements in order. Starting with the statement that gives you the clearest path can make the problem easier and reduce unnecessary work. Doing more practice questions is not necessarily the path to improvement. The useful part of review is identifying exactly where your reasoning broke down and what you need to do differently when you encounter a similar challenge again. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Data Insights and Episode Overview 02:14 GMAT Super Score and Its Impact on Data Insights 03:24 Integrating Quantitative and Verbal Skills in Data Insights 04:47 Common Challenges: Timing and Data Overload 07:08 Building Structure and Task Orientation 09:00 Handling Distractions and Staying Focused 10:01 Practicing Discipline and Resource Management 12:21 Avoiding Assumptions and Logical Leaps 14:14 Understanding the Open Book Nature of Data Insights 16:03 Question Type Specific Strategies 19:08 Using Graphics Interpretation Effectively 29:16 Introduction to Data Sufficiency Questions 30:15 Evaluating Data Sufficiency Statements Independently 32:38 Common Mistakes in Data Sufficiency 35:15 Importance of Inventory Management and Confidence 40:05 Strategies for Success and Self-Reflection 50:14 Psychology of Test-Taking and Next Steps

  • S6 · E21
    August 17 · 50 min

    What Time Is Your Brain at Its Best? with Dr. Rodrigo Tello, Oklahoma State University

    In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Dr. Rodrigo Tello, MBA Program Manager at Oklahoma State University and a researcher studying chronobiology and circadian rhythms in organizational management. Rodrigo explains how our chronotypes—whether we naturally perform better earlier or later in the day—can affect focus, decision-making, learning, and even how managers respond to employee ideas. He also shares what his research has found about the "synchrony effect": what can happen when demanding tasks line up with the time of day your brain is naturally at its best. Then Zach and Rodrigo bring the science back to the GMAT. They discuss how to identify your own patterns, experiment with different study times, schedule prep around your strongest hours when possible, and think strategically about when to take the exam. As Rodrigo puts it: before studying for the GMAT, study yourself. They also explore what chronobiology could mean for business school, teamwork, leadership, and the way we design the modern workplace. About our guest: Dr. Rodrigo Tello is a Senior Program Manager, educator, and researcher with more than 14 years of experience in program management, including seven years in graduate business education (MBA). He holds three master's degrees, including a Master's in Health and Human Performance, and is a Mayo Clinic Certified Health and Wellness Coach. His research focuses on the intersection of chronobiology, leadership, and management, exploring how biological rhythms influence managerial behavior and decision-making. Passionate about health, wellness, and longevity, Rodrigo is particularly interested in connecting human performance and well-being with leadership and organizational performance. Outside of work and research, he enjoys traveling, biking, lifting, and staying active. Helpful resources: Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ): https://tinyurl.com/3ud6558a The Power of When by Dr. Michael Breus: https://a.co/d/0flfAD2b What's Your Chrontotype? Quiz: https://tinyurl.com/47bd3nav Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to timing and biological clocks 01:09 Rodrigo's journey into wellness and chronobiology 04:39 The book The Power of When and its impact 07:03 Research on managers' chronotypes and responsiveness 08:53 Timing and decision-making in organizations 11:37 Practical applications beyond management 14:23 Personal experiences with study timing and energy levels 20:00 Implications for high-stakes testing like the GMAT 27:25 Societal and organizational shifts towards flexible timing 34:20 Applying chronobiology to MBA and professional development 41:17 Navigating chronobiology in professional settings 45:31 Future research and potential impacts

  • S6 · E20
    August 13 · 1 hr 12 min

    Week 3: Vexed by Verbal Reasoning | GMAT Summer Study Series with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    Knowing how to read doesn't automatically mean you know how to approach GMAT Verbal. In the latest episode of our summer GMAT prep series, GMAC Zach and GMAT instructor Hailey Cusimano dig into Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning—and some of the habits that can make these questions harder than they need to be. They explore why GMAT Verbal is more objective than it may seem, how assumptions and outside knowledge can lead you toward tempting wrong answers, why reading faster isn't necessarily the answer to pacing problems, and how process of elimination can help you make more defensible decisions. Then Zach puts the strategies to the test with challenging Critical Reasoning questions—and falls into a few traps along the way. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Verbal is objective. You're not choosing the answer you can make the best case for; four answers are ultimately flawed for a reason. Read for structure, not memorization. Look for changes in direction, perspective, comparisons, and why each paragraph exists. Don't bring too much outside knowledge with you. Your assumptions and familiarity with a topic can sometimes make a question harder rather than easier. Know your job before evaluating the answers. An assumption, strengthener, inference, and other question types demand different things. Make your eliminations defensible. "I don't like this answer" isn't enough; you should be able to articulate why it fails the task. Review why you got stuck—not just what you got wrong. Hailey's final advice is to look for recurring resistance points in your decision-making rather than simply drilling more questions of the same type.

  • S6 · E19
    August 5 · 1 hr 8 min

    Week 2: Don't Sweat the Quant Stuff | GMAT Summer Study Series with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    GMAT Quant questions can look intimidating—but the hardest part is not always the math. In week two of our six-week GMAT study series, GMAC Zach is joined once again by Hailey Cusimano of Menlo Coaching for a hands-on Quantitative Reasoning session. Together, they work through three challenging problems and explore what actually separates an efficient GMAT solution from a long, calculation-heavy one. You'll learn why rushing into the first available approach can cost you time, how to identify the question's true ask, and how techniques such as number picking, visual organization, and proportional reasoning can reveal a much simpler path forward. Along the way, Hailey explains how to: Front-load your analysis so you can execute more efficiently Identify and pursue the path of least resistance Recognize the cues intentionally built into a question Choose useful numbers when variables make a problem difficult to visualize Avoid doing the right math for the wrong question Turn "careless mistakes" into specific opportunities for improvement Whether Quant is your biggest concern or you simply want to become a more flexible problem-solver, this episode will help you approach difficult questions with greater clarity, confidence, and control. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Analyze before you calculate. A small investment of time at the beginning can prevent you from spending several minutes on an approach that will not pay off. Look for the path of least resistance. The first method that comes to mind is not necessarily the most efficient one. Treat every detail as intentional. A word such as "remaining," "integer," or "non-negative" may completely change how the question should be interpreted. Make abstract questions tangible. When a problem uses percentages and variables, choosing useful numbers can make the underlying relationship easier to see. Answer the question that was actually asked. Correct calculations can still lead to a wrong answer when you use the wrong comparison or percentage base. Investigate so-called careless mistakes. Errors often begin with how the problem was interpreted or organized—not with the final arithmetic. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to GMAT quant challenges and guest Haley Cusimano 01:02 The importance of mindset and environment in tackling quant questions 02:29 Common misconceptions about approaching GMAT quant 03:43 The GMAT as an analysis of thinking, not just content knowledge 05:00 Bad habits from content-based exam thinking 06:23 The value of slow analysis and question deconstruction 07:34 Course correction strategies for difficult questions 09:12 Frontloading analysis and identifying the path of least resistance 10:54 Using number sense and ratios to simplify problems 12:27 The importance of understanding question cues and details 15:50 Visual organization of complex data and question setup 17:23 Handling challenging percent questions with strategic number picking 20:14 Dealing with traps and misconceptions in percent problems 24:39 Leveraging divisibility and number properties for quick calculations 28:23 Setting up for success: avoiding careless errors 34:52 Approaches to tackling difficult GMAT questions efficiently 37:32 Visualizing data with tables and diagrams for complex problems 44:46 Using number sense to simplify and verify answers 50:54 Summary and key takeaways for effective GMAT quant prep

  • S6 · E18
    July 30 · 36 min

    Week 1: Building Your Study Plan | GMAT Summer Study Series with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    Summer can be a great time to prepare for the GMAT...but only if you have a plan! In the first installment of our summer GMAT study series, GMAC Zach is joined by Hailey Cusimano, Director of Tutoring at Menlo Coaching, to discuss how candidates can build a study timeline that is structured, realistic, and flexible. Hailey explains why GMAT preparation should generally move through two phases: first developing the necessary foundations and strategies, and then practicing under increasingly realistic test conditions. She also shares why completing more questions does not automatically lead to a higher score, how to use an error log effectively, and what candidates should look for when reviewing their performance. The conversation also covers test readiness, practice-exam timing, managing test-day stress, and why even strong test takers should leave room in their schedules for a possible retake. Whether you are beginning your GMAT journey or trying to regain momentum, this series will help you build a more thoughtful and productive approach to your preparation. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Build a clear preparation timeline before diving into practice questions. Divide your study plan into two broad phases: foundations and strategy first, followed by timed and test-like practice. Avoid treating practice exams as the structure of your entire study plan. Focus on understanding why you struggled with a question—not simply what type of question you missed. Use an error log to identify recurring behaviors, habits, and decision-making patterns. Prioritize the quality of your review over the number of questions you complete. Look for consistency across practice exams rather than relying on one strong performance. Practice handling realistic distractions and pressure before test day. Maintain balance, flexibility, and resilience throughout the preparation process. Leave enough time in your schedule to retake the GMAT if needed. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to GMAT summer study series 02:30 Why summer is ideal for GMAT prep 05:02 Initial steps for beginning GMAT prep 09:20 Structuring your study timeline 12:55 Content review vs. test simulation 17:20 Benchmarking progress and understanding resistance 22:41 Traits of successful GMAT test takers 27:16 Balancing preparation and well-being 33:50 Emulating test stressors effectively 37:34 The importance of retesting and iteration 40:15 Actionable steps for starting your prep

  • S6 · E17
    July 22 · 30 min

    Rewind: Meet with Admissions at GMAC Tours

    This episode originally published in 2025, but since a new round of GMAC Tours just started up again, I want to make sure new listeners have a chance to learn all about these one-of-a-kind, free events. Enjoy! - GMAC Zach Thinking about business school? Don't go it alone. In this episode, we're hitting the road as we explore GMAC Tours, the global events that bring top business schools and aspiring students together under one roof. Host Zach is joined by Maggie Cooley, Director of Events and Marketing for GMAC Tours, to unpack why these MBA & Masters Tour events are more than just information sessions. They're networking goldmines, resume-boosting bootcamps, and overall application game-changers. You'll hear what really happens at a Tour event, how to make a lasting impression, and why attending one could help you discover your best-fit program (especially one you've never considered before). Whether you're years away from applying or finalizing your target school list, this episode will help you make the most of one of the most impactful tools on your business school journey. Find a Tour near you: https://www.mba.com/connect-with-schools/gmac-tours/events-calendar Key Takeaways 1. GMAC Tours are free, curated events designed for every stage of the b-school journey. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to apply, there's value for everyone—from keynotes and meetups to resume clinics and GMAT info sessions. 2. The biggest asset? Face time with admissions reps. Attendees meet directly with decision-makers from top global business schools, building authentic relationships that can strengthen applications and inform school selection. 3. Thoughtful preparation goes a long way. Doing research ahead of time, preparing smart questions, and showing genuine curiosity helps you stand out, both in scheduled meetups and casual booth chats. 4. Be open to discovering new schools. 80% of attendees consider a new program they hadn't previously thought about. Don't just target the usual suspects—use the event to explore your full range of options. 5. Your application can benefit directly. From resume feedback to application tips and admissions insights, the information (and impression) you gain at a Tour event can translate into a stronger, more personalized application. Chapters 01:12 - What is a Tour Event? 03:25 - Who Should Attend? 05:24 - Overview of Activities 06:55 - About School Meet-Ups 10:04 - About Resume Review Clinics 11:20 - About B-School Talks 12:01 - About the GMAT Info Session 13:16 - Planning Your Schedule 14:52 - Benefits of Attending 16:57 - Using the Event to Strengthen Your Application 17:56 - Success Stories 21:07 - Tips for Attending 23:06 - Making a Great Impression at Networking Events 25:07 - Common Mistakes to Avoid 28:42 - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

  • S6 · E15
    July 15 · 29 min

    GMAT Superscore Explained with Charles Bibilos, GMAT Ninja

    GMAT Superscore is coming, and it could change how candidates think about retesting, performance anxiety, and an imperfect test day. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Charles Bibilos, founder of GMAT Ninja, to explain what GMAT Superscore means in practice. Charles breaks down how a superscore combines your strongest Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights section scores across multiple eligible exam attempts. He also explains which candidates are most likely to benefit, why an uneven test day no longer needs to feel catastrophic, and how business schools may interpret a candidate's testing history. They also discuss some of the early misconceptions surrounding GMAT Superscore—including the idea that candidates should study for one section at a time or repeatedly take the exam in an attempt to game the system. You'll learn: How GMAT Superscore is calculated When a superscore may differ meaningfully from your best single-attempt score Why candidates should still prepare for all three sections How superscoring may help candidates manage test-day anxiety Why score improvement and multiple attempts are not viewed negatively by schools How financial access and testing context may affect the conversation What questions remain about how schools will report and use superscores Charles's three biggest pieces of advice for candidates The biggest takeaway: prepare to perform your best across the entire exam—but remember that one difficult section or one bad stretch of questions does not have to erase everything you accomplished that day.

  • S6 · E13
    June 17 · 28 min

    Financing Your MBA: What Every Candidate Should Know

    Paying for business school can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, Zach sits down with Allie Danziger, Chief Marketing Officer at Ascent Funding, to discuss one of the biggest concerns facing prospective students: how to finance graduate management education. Together, they explore why cost remains a major barrier for candidates, common misconceptions about loans and scholarships, strategies for building a realistic financial plan, and ways students can evaluate the long-term return on investment of their degree. Whether you're just beginning to research programs or preparing to enroll this fall, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you approach funding decisions with greater confidence, including: Why financing feels overwhelming for so many candidates The difference between scholarships, federal loans, and private loans How to calculate your true cost of attendance Common funding mistakes students make Ways AI can help students plan financially Why starting early matters How Ascent Funding supports students beyond financing About our guest: Allie Danziger is Chief Marketing Officer at Ascent Funding, where she leads marketing, growth, and customer experience initiatives focused on helping students and families access education financing with confidence. A serial entrepreneur and business builder, Allie has founded, scaled, and successfully exited two companies. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about creating innovative solutions that help individuals achieve their educational and professional goals. In 2020, she founded Ampersand, a workforce development platform designed to help early-career professionals build career-ready skills and connect education to employment outcomes. Ampersand was acquired by Ascent Funding in 2023. Prior to Ampersand, Allie founded and led Integrate Agency, one of Texas's leading marketing and public relations firms, serving more than 600 organizations and growing a team of over 250 professionals. Today, Allie brings a unique perspective at the intersection of education, career readiness, marketing, and technology, helping organizations create meaningful pathways from education to long-term success. Helpful Resources: *Check your rates with Ascent: https://partners.ascentfunding.com/gmac **Apply for the GMAC scholarship: https://www.ascentfunding.com/scholarships Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Financing Education 01:39 Understanding the Barriers to Financing 06:10 Navigating the Cost of Attendance 11:16 Funding Options Explained 15:32 Common Misconceptions in Student Financing 18:14 Timing Your Financial Decisions 21:40 Ascent Funding's Unique Approach 25:03 Collaboration with GMAC 26:40 Final Thoughts and Action Steps *Disclaimer: GMAC receives a fee for these loans. **The Breaking Barriers Scholarship Giveaway is open to students who are legal U.S. residents (including D.C.) see official rules at https://www.ascentfunding.com/scholarships/breaking-barriers

  • S6 · E12
    May 27 · 42 min

    How to Use the New GMAT Official Guide 2026–2027

    "Nothing is better than the real thing. Official GMAT questions are the gold standard for getting ready for the test." The GMAT Official Guide 2026–2027 is here, and that means new official questions, updated online practice tools, and fresh ways to prepare for test day. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach is joined once again by Stacey Koprince of Manhattan Prep to break down what's new in this year's Official Guide collection and how candidates should actually use it. They discuss why official GMAT questions are so valuable, how to balance official prep with third-party learning resources, and why reviewing your practice questions is just as important as answering them. Zach and Stacey also cover common prep mistakes, including burning through too many questions too quickly, studying one question type in isolation, and skipping review on questions you got right. Plus, Stacey shares practical advice for using the Official Guide, section-specific review books, online question banks, and official practice exams more strategically throughout your prep. Whether you're just starting your GMAT journey or looking for more official practice before test day, this episode will help you get more out of every question you study. Purchase the new GMAT Official Guide: mba.com/prep Register for the GMAT exam: mba.com/register Get materials from Manhattan Prep: manhattanprep.com/gmat About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student. Key Takeaways Official questions matter because they are real GMAT questions. Third-party prep can teach concepts and strategies, but official GMAT questions are the best way to practice what the real exam will feel like. The Official Guide works best after foundational learning. Candidates should first learn the underlying content, question types, and strategies, then use the Official Guide to quiz themselves. Review is where score improvement happens. Stacey emphasizes that every question should be reviewed, including questions answered correctly, because correct answers can reveal shortcuts, traps, and repeatable strategies. Mixed practice is more effective than over-drilling one question type. The GMAT requires candidates to shift between skills, formats, and sections. Prep should mimic that experience. The newest Official Guide may be worth it, but not always immediately. If a candidate already owns last year's guide and still has plenty of unused questions, they can continue with it. If they are buying for the first time, the newest edition is the better choice. Practice exams should be used carefully. Candidates should review each practice exam thoroughly and complete targeted study before taking another one. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Official Guide 2026-2027 01:07 The Importance of Official GMAT Tools 03:20 New Features and Questions in the Official Guide 11:38 Exploring the Content of the Big OG 16:02 Strategic Use of the Official Guide 18:15 The Value of Reviewing Correct Answers 22:14 Common Mistakes in GMAT Preparation 27:44 Utilizing the Official Guide Effectively 29:24 Review Books and Their Importance 34:17 Integrating Official Prep Tools with Outside Learning 37:46 Pro Tips for Leveraging the New Official Guide

  • S6 · E11
    May 13 · 54 min

    The 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers with Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching

    "Anxiety and excitement are chemically the same reaction — context changes how we interpret it." What actually separates top GMAT performers from everyone else? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Hailey Cusimano, Director of Tutoring at Menlo Coaching, to unpack the five traits she's observed that that drive GMAT success. Through the lens of curiosity, balance, consistency, resilience, and flexibility, Hailey explains why the GMAT is less about memorization and more about critical thinking, self-awareness, and intentional preparation. Whether you're just starting your prep journey or feeling stuck after months of studying, this episode offers actionable insights to help you study smarter — not just harder. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: The GMAT is fundamentally a critical thinking test — not a memorization test. Curiosity is one of the strongest predictors of long-term GMAT success. Reflective studying is far more valuable than simply completing large volumes of questions. Consistency matters more than cramming or weekend-only "study marathons." Burnout can quietly undermine progress, even for highly motivated students. Flexibility and adaptability are essential because the GMAT intentionally challenges rigid thinking. Top scorers are not confident all the time — they are resourceful when facing uncertainty. Students improve faster when they analyze why they got stuck, not just what they got wrong. Strong GMAT preparation requires balance between studying, work, rest, and personal life. Resilience allows students to turn setbacks, bad practice tests, and plateau periods into opportunities for growth. The best GMAT students treat mistakes as useful data rather than evidence of failure. Small, intentional daily study sessions are often more effective than infrequent marathon sessions. "Timeline creep" can happen when students study without structure, benchmarks, or accountability. Many students plateau because they over-focus on weaknesses and stop practicing holistically. The GMAT rewards thoughtful decision-making, resource management, and strategic thinking under pressure. Chapters: 00:00 Intro and Meet Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching 08:02 Trait #1: Curiosity 13:50 Trait #2: Consistency 22:39 Trait #3: Balance 32:59 Trait #4: Flexibility 36:48 Trait #5: Resilience 43:11 Integrating Key Traits for Success 49:30 Actionable Steps for GMAT Success

  • S5 · E10
    April 23 · 20 min

    What Today's MBA Candidates Really Want (According to the Data)

    "Candidates aren't chasing career switches—they're investing in long-term skills." If you're considering business school, you've probably asked yourself some big questions: Is it worth it? What should I prioritize? And how are other candidates making this decision? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with his colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack insights from the 2026 GMAC Prospective Student Survey—featuring perspectives from over 4,000 candidates worldwide. Together, they explore how candidate motivations are shifting, what "ROI" really means today, and how global preferences for where to study are evolving. In this episode, you'll learn: Why fewer candidates are pursuing business school for career switching How AI is shaping expectations for business school curricula What candidates really mean when they talk about ROI Key differences between younger and more experienced applicants Why interest in studying in the U.S. is shifting globally The growing demand for business master's degrees vs. MBAs How candidates are thinking about financing and application strategy Whether you're early in your journey or actively applying, this episode will help you better understand how to approach your decision—and what really matters. Key Takeaways: ROI is broader than ever: Candidates are thinking beyond salary—factoring in skills, network, personal growth, and long-term career resilience. Career switching is no longer the primary driver: More candidates are pursuing business school to build capabilities, not completely change paths. AI is reshaping expectations—but not replacing fundamentals: Demand for AI in the classroom is rising, but core skills like problem solving and strategic thinking remain central. Global study preferences are shifting: Interest in traditional destinations like the U.S. is softening, while Western Europe and parts of Asia are gaining traction. Rankings matter less—outcomes matter more: Candidates are increasingly prioritizing career outcomes and ROI over prestige alone. Younger vs. older candidates have different motivations: Younger: income, status, global experiences Older: targeted skill-building and career advancement Business master's degrees are gaining momentum: Especially among younger candidates—and even mid-career professionals looking for focused upskilling. Financing is central to decision-making: Candidates are applying to multiple programs and increasingly relying on financial aid as part of their strategy. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Business School Insights 01:25 Shifting Motivations for Pursuing an MBA 04:10 Understanding ROI in Business Education 07:08 Generational Differences in Business School Aspirations 09:07 Trends in Global Business School Preferences 11:53 Demand for MBAs vs. Business Masters 14:58 Financing Business Education 17:19 Key Takeaways from the Survey

  • S5 · E9
    April 15 · 36 min

    English Proficiency & the MBA: Inside the Duolingo English Test with Elie Bechara

    "Testing isn't just about checking a box—it's about proving you're ready to succeed." When most people think about business school admissions, they focus on test scores, essays, and interviews. But for many candidates around the world, there's another critical piece of the puzzle: proving you can succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach is joined by Elie Bechara, Head of the Duolingo English Test in Europe, to break down how English proficiency testing fits into the modern MBA application—and why it matters more than ever. Elie shares his journey from INSEAD to consulting to tech, and how he found his way to Duolingo. Then, the conversation dives into what the Duolingo English Test (DET) actually is, how it compares to other English proficiency exams, and why its fully online, adaptive format is rapidly gaining traction worldwide. You'll also learn how the DET complements exams like the GMAT, what business schools are really looking for when it comes to communication skills, and how global trends are reshaping where—and how—students pursue business education. About Elie: Based in Europe, Elie Bechara is the Senior Strategic Engagement Manager for the Duolingo English Test. He works closely with universities, governments, and higher education stakeholders across the region to develop and support fair, secure, and accessible English proficiency assessment in international admissions. Before joining Duolingo, Elie spent over a decade in client-facing roles, across Europe and MENA, in consulting and tech, at LinkedIn, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and PwC, advising institutions, governments, and organisations on strategy, transformation, and talent mobility. Helpful links: Duolingo English Test: englishtest.duolingo.com Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Inside the GMAT/GMAC Zach on Substack: https://substack.com/@gmaczach Key Takeaways: Language proficiency is more than a checkbox: It's a signal of your ability to actively participate in a global, collaborative MBA environment. The GMAT and English tests are complementary, assessing different but equally critical skills: reasoning vs. real-world communication. AI is transforming assessment, enabling faster test development, improved security, and more realistic interaction-based evaluations. Global mobility trends are shifting, with more candidates choosing Europe and other regions, increasing the need for strong communication across cultures. Business school success depends heavily on communication, not just academic ability—especially in discussion-driven environments. Your application doesn't need to be "extraordinary" to be compelling—authenticity and clarity matter more than trying to stand out artificially. Preparation builds confidence for day one, ensuring you can fully engage from the start rather than playing catch-up. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Elie's Journey to Duolingo 04:20 The Duolingo English Test Explained 07:12 The Structure and Security of the Test 12:02 Innovative Features of the Duolingo English Test 14:19 The Growing Popularity of the Duolingo English Test 17:30 Complementing MBA Applications with Language Proficiency 22:38 Trends in Global Mobility for MBA Candidates 25:05 The Future of Language Testing and AI Innovations 29:22 Advice for MBA Applicants and Test Takers

  • S5 · E8
    April 1 · 43 min

    Going Beyond Tips & Tricks with Brian Prestia, Reason Test Prep

    "It's not about the rules and formulas—it's about the decisions you make in how you approach a question." Most GMAT candidates start their prep the wrong way: by diving straight into content, formulas, and practice questions. But what if that approach is actually holding you back? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Brian Prestia, founder of Reason Test Prep, to break down what the GMAT is really testing—and why success has far more to do with how you think than what you know. Together, they explore the difference between memorization and reasoning, why "tips and tricks" can be misleading, and how top scorers approach questions with strategy, precision, and creativity. From quant to verbal to data insights, Brian shares how to rethink your prep, avoid common traps, and build the kind of problem-solving skills that drive real score gains. If you've ever felt stuck despite studying hard, this episode will change how you approach the GMAT—and maybe how you think about problem-solving altogether. About Brian: Brian Prestia is the owner of Reason Test Prep and is an elite test-prep veteran with more than 20 years of experience preparing people for the GMAT and other standardized tests. He has scored in the 100th percentile of the GMAT and has tutored nearly 1,000 students from all corners of the globe. Brian has a passion for teaching and especially for getting students to think more critically, problem solve more creatively, and, most importantly, enjoy the lifelong process of learning. Helpful links: Reason Test Prep: https://reasontestprep.com Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Inside the GMAT/GMAC Zach on Substack: https://substack.com/@gmaczach Key Takeaways: The GMAT is a reasoning test—not a content test: Most candidates over-focus on formulas and rules, but the exam is designed to assess decision-making, logic, and problem-solving ability. "Tips and tricks" thinking misses the point: Treating the GMAT like a game you can hack leads to shallow understanding. Real improvement comes from developing adaptable thinking skills. Strategy should come before content: Top performers learn how to approach problems first, then layer in content—not the other way around. There is always a definitively correct answer: Even in verbal, answers aren't subjective. If something feels ambiguous, it's a signal to refine your reasoning—not guess. Precision matters more than you think: Success—especially in verbal—comes down to noticing small differences in language and meaning. Data Insights is really a time management test: The challenge isn't just solving problems—it's identifying what matters quickly and ignoring noise. Deliberate practice beats volume: Doing hundreds of questions isn't enough. Improvement comes from deeply analyzing how and why you solved (or missed) each one. You don't always need full math to get the answer: Smart estimation, logic, and elimination can often outperform brute-force calculation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to GMAT Strategies 04:09 Brian Prestia's Journey and Reason Test Prep 07:36 Defining Critical Reasoning and Problem Solving 10:05 Misconceptions About Test Preparation 15:38 The Role of Math in GMAT Success 18:30 Approaching Different Sections of the GMAT 22:48 Understanding Argument Strengthening and Weakening 24:14 Precision in Language and Its Importance 26:03 Time Management in Data Insights 32:01 Strategies for Data Sufficiency 37:54 Reorienting Your GMAT Preparation Mindset

  • S6 · E7
    March 20 · 29 min

    EA Prep Week 10: Test Complete! The End of an EA-ra

    "The score isn't the end. It's just the starting point." After ten weeks, GMAC Zach has finally taken his EA exam! In this candid debrief episode of Inside the GMAT, Zach sits down with instructor Stacey Koprince from Manhattan Prep to break down his real testing experience—from last-minute rescheduling to test-day distractions and everything in between. Zach walks through how he handled each section, what threw him off (including a chaotic testing environment and a few "wait, is this a typo?" moments), and where his strategy held up—or didn't. Together, they unpack the psychology of test-day performance, including how stress impacts timing, decision-making, and even basic comprehension. More importantly, this episode shifts from performance to perspective. Stacey explains how to properly debrief an exam, when to guess and move on, and why most candidates improve on a second attempt. The conversation reinforces a key message: your first test isn't just a score—it's data. For anyone preparing for the GMAT or EA, this episode is a masterclass in what actually happens on test day—and how to use it to your advantage moving forward. About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student. Helpful links: Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare GMAC Official Starter Kit (FREE): https://www.mba.com/exam-prep/gmat-official-starter-kit Manhattan Prep Official Starter Kit (FREE): https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/free/gmat-practice Inside the GMAT/GMAC Zach on Substack: https://substack.com/@gmaczach Key Takeaways: Your first test is data, not a verdict: Whether you're happy with your score or not, the real value is understanding what to improve next. Test-day stress changes everything: Timing, focus, and even reading comprehension can break down under pressure—even if practice went smoothly. Distractions are part of the test: You can't control your environment, but you can train for it—practice in imperfect settings to build resilience. Don't let one question sink your section: If you don't fully understand the question or know where to find the answer, guess and move on. Perfectionism is the enemy of performance: Spending too long chasing one answer often costs you more points elsewhere. Your brain under stress is not always reliable: "Typos" and confusion are often misinterpretations caused by pressure—not actual errors. Second attempts tend to improve: Familiarity with the test environment and format often leads to higher scores. Balanced scores matter: Consistency across sections (e.g., 11/11/11) is often stronger than uneven performance. Start early to give yourself options: Early prep reduces pressure and gives you flexibility to retake if needed. Chapters 00:00 Exam Rescheduling and Preparation 02:54 Test Center Experience and Initial Reactions 05:59 Debriefing the Exam Performance 08:44 Challenges During the Integrated Reasoning Section 11:47 Verbal Section Insights and Reflections 15:35 Navigating Difficult Questions 20:46 Quantitative Section Insights 22:25 Setting Score Expectations 24:14 Reflections on Preparation and Future Steps

  • S6 · E6
    March 19 · 37 min

    The Case for Reasoning Skills in the Age of AI with GMAT Buddy's Ayham Shakra

    "Lose the urgency. Accept the learning process." In a world where AI can generate answers instantly, what actually sets great decision-makers apart? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with GMAT tutor and founder of GMAT Buddy, Ayham Shakra, to unpack the real skill behind success—not memorization, but reasoning. Ayham explains why the GMAT isn't a math or English test, but a training ground for structured thinking: the ability to filter noise, identify patterns, and make decisions under pressure. Together, they explore why so many test-takers struggle, how foundational skills shape high-level problem solving, and why progress on the GMAT is anything but linear. The conversation also tackles a bigger question: in an AI-driven world, are reasoning skills more important than ever? Ayham makes the case that they are—not just for test day, but for business school, your career, and life itself. About Ayham: Ayham has spent more than a decade helping aspiring MBA candidates prepare for and excel on the GMAT. He specializes in breaking down the preparation journey into focused, manageable sprints—designing personalized study plans that target weaknesses while amplifying strengths. Through extensive work with non-native English speakers and candidates from non-math backgrounds, Ayham has developed distinctive teaching methods that go beyond content mastery to strengthen core reasoning skills. His approach empowers students not just to improve their scores, but to think more clearly, efficiently, and confidently under pressure. Helpful links: GMAT Buddy: https://gmatbuddy.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Inside the GMAT/GMAC Zach on Substack: https://substack.com/@gmaczach Key Takeaways The GMAT measures how you think—not what you know: It's about processing information, identifying patterns, and making decisions efficiently—not advanced math or perfect English. AI makes judgment more valuable, not less: When answers are everywhere, the real skill is knowing which ones are actually correct or useful. Foundation before finesse: High-level "aha" problem solving only works if basic skills (math, reading, logic) are automatic and intuitive. Progress is non-linear: Improvement comes in waves, not steady gains—patience is part of the process. Reasoning is a trainable skill: It's built through repetition, reflection, and learning to ask the right questions—not memorizing shortcuts. Timed conditions reveal true skill: Efficiency under pressure—not just correctness—is what separates top performers. The "aha moment" is the real learning unit: Each moment of clarity builds a repeatable mental framework for solving future problems. Don't compare your journey: Everyone starts from a different baseline—focus on your own growth trajectory. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 06:08 The Impact of AI on Learning and Reasoning 11:09 How to Teach Reasoning Skills 22:40 Building a Strong Foundation for GMAT Success 26:24 The Role of Timed Conditions in Testing 29:31 Real-World Applications of GMAT Skills 33:42 Pursuing Aha Moments in Learning

  • S6 · E5
    March 4 · 46 min

    How to Eliminate Careless Mistakes on the GMAT

    "You should actually get a little bit excited when you make a careless mistake—because you're about to get better." Everyone makes careless mistakes on the GMAT—even well-prepared test takers. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Manhattan Prep instructor Stacey Koprince to break down why these mistakes happen and what you can actually do to prevent them. Stacey explains the critical difference between a true knowledge gap and a careless mistake—and why the latter is often the easiest type of mistake to fix. Instead of beating yourself up when you spot one, she argues you should see it as an opportunity to improve your score. The conversation explores the hidden causes behind careless errors, including stress, mental fatigue, time pressure, and small weaknesses in your knowledge foundation. Zach and Stacey also discuss practical strategies for identifying patterns in your mistakes and building new habits that interrupt them before they happen again. Listeners will learn how to use a review log (AKA error log) to track mistakes, how to diagnose the real reason an error occurred, and how to design simple "micro-checks" during problem solving that can prevent costly slip-ups. They also tackle an uncomfortable truth about adaptive exams like the GMAT: sometimes the smartest strategy is getting questions wrong quickly so you can protect your accuracy on questions you can get right. If you've ever finished a problem, looked at the correct answer, and thought "I knew that—how did I miss it?", this episode will give you a framework for turning those frustrating moments into real score gains. About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student. Helpful links: Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare GMAC Official Starter Kit (FREE): https://www.mba.com/exam-prep/gmat-official-starter-kit Manhattan Prep Official Starter Kit (FREE): https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/free/gmat-practice Inside the GMAT/GMAC Zach on Substack: https://substack.com/@gmaczach Key Takeaways: Careless mistakes aren't random—they usually follow personal patterns you can identify and fix. The process to fix them: identify the mistake → understand why it happened → build a new habit to prevent it. Small habits (like writing key information on scratch paper) can dramatically reduce errors. Keeping a review log helps reveal patterns across practice sessions. On adaptive exams, time management matters: sometimes it's smarter to guess quickly and protect accuracy elsewhere. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Careless Mistakes 05:04 Identifying Patterns in Mistakes 11:12 Types of Careless Mistakes 16:50 The Importance of a Review Log 24:02 Introduction to Effective Study Habits 27:53 Balancing Speed and Accuracy in Test Taking 34:46 Understanding and Managing Time During Tests 42:32 Finding the Right Balance in Test Taking

  • S6 · E4
    February 27 · 43 min

    EA Prep Week 9: Exam Day Tips and Listener Q&A with Stacey Koprince, Manhattan Prep

    "The biggest score killer isn't one wrong answer. It's inconsistent pacing." Zach sits down once again with test prep expert Stacey Koprince—this time with a big milestone to share: his EA exam appointment is officially booked (date undisclosed, of course). From there, the conversation becomes a practical, stress-reducing roadmap for what to do after a practice test dip and before the real thing. Stacey helps Zach break down his recent practice exam results into three clear categories—strengths you can't coast on, fixable mistakes worth reviewing, and true "kryptonite" topics that are better strategically skipped. Along the way, they dig into why careless mistakes happen, how to review smarter (not longer), and how to make confident time-management decisions on test day—especially within the EA's panel-based format. The second half of the episode is focused on answering listern questions: how early is too early (or too late) to start studying, how many hours per week actually make sense, how EA prep compares to GMAT prep, and whether private tutoring is really worth the cost in the age of AI and free content. Stacey also calls out some of the worst test prep advice she sees—spoiler: grinding thousands of questions without proper review is at the top of the list. If you're approaching test day, debating between the EA and GMAT, or just want calmer, more strategic guidance on how to prepare like a pro, this episode is packed with reassurance, humor, and hard-earned insight. About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student. Helpful links: Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep Inside the GMAT/GMAC Zach on Substack: https://substack.com/@gmaczach Key Takeaways: Not all wrong answers mean the same thing. Separate true content gaps, careless mistakes, and "kryptonite" topics—each requires a different response. You can't coast on your strengths. Overconfidence in strong areas is one of the most common sources of avoidable score drops. Letting go is a strategy, not a failure. Knowing in advance which question types you'll skip or guess on preserves time, confidence, and overall performance. Timing decisions matter more than individual questions. When to move on from a question can have an outsized impact on your score. Practice tests are for diagnosis, not judgment. A score dip on a practice exam is normal—and often a sign you're learning the right lessons at the right time. Learning happens between problems, not during them. Review, reflection, and targeted drills drive improvement—not sheer volume. The final days are about readiness, not grinding. Light review, strategy reminders, and mental freshness beat last-minute cramming every time. Test-day routines should reduce decisions, not add them. Plan logistics, warm-ups, food, clothing, and timing in advance so your brain is reserved for the exam. Free prep can work—until it doesn't. If your score is improving, keep going. If it stalls, higher-quality (and often paid) resources may be worth it. The EA and GMAT demand different prep philosophies. EA prep is typically shorter and threshold-based; GMAT prep often requires more time due to how scores are used in admissions and rankings. Chapters: 00:00 Zach Shares His Exam Booking and Location Choice 01:30 Study Strategies and Practice Test Review 06:08 Test Day Preparation and Environment Setup 13:51 Final Tips for the Day Before and Day Of the Exam 19:50 Managing Test Anxiety and Strategic Question Skipping 24:58 Your Questions: Resources, Study Buddies, and When to Seek Help

  • S6 · E3
    February 25 · 58 min

    The Data Insights Deep Dive with Sergey Kouk of Admit Master

    "This section isn't just about getting into business school — it's about being ready once you're there." Host GMAC Zach welcomes back GMAT expert Sergey Kouk from Admit Master for a deep dive into one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of the exam: the Data Insights section. Together, Zach and Sergey demystify what Data Insights really tests, why it matters for business school and recruiting, and how test-takers should approach it strategically rather than emotionally. Sergey explains how the section builds on the former Integrated Reasoning questions, why Data Sufficiency now plays a central role, and how success depends far more on logic, structure, and decision-making than on heavy math. The conversation walks through each Data Insights question type—Data Sufficiency, Graphics Interpretation, Table Analysis, Two-Part Analysis, and Multi-Source Reasoning—highlighting common pitfalls, practical tactics, and efficient workflows for each. Sergey emphasizes proactive thinking: identifying what information is needed before diving into the data, staying methodical under time pressure, and avoiding the temptation to brute-force calculations. Listeners also learn how to manage time effectively, when (and when not) to use the calculator, and why guessing strategically and moving on can be smarter than getting stuck. Throughout the episode, Sergey draws clear parallels between Data Insights questions and real business scenarios, reinforcing why this section is so relevant for MBA readiness and post-MBA careers. The episode wraps with actionable advice on reducing stress, using the review function wisely, and preparing for business school—not just the test. Whether you're intimidated by Data Insights or looking to refine your approach, this conversation offers clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for mastering the section. About Our Guest: Sergey Kouk is a rocket scientist turned GMAT instructor, who achieved a score of 750 on the GMAT after just 2 weeks of studying. He credits his success to the amazing teachers and mentors, who taught him advanced reasoning skills early in his career. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of Admit Master, a test preparation and admissions consulting company headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Sergey holds 3 university degrees, including an MBA. When he is not teaching prep classes, he spends time snowboarding or sailing a boat with his family. Sergey brings to this podcast over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT to thousands of business school candidates, as well as insights from other experienced GMAT instructors and MBA Admissions Consultants at Admit Master, to help you get a great GMAT score and gain admission to your dream business school. Contact Admit Master: https://admitmaster.com/ Register for the GMAT: mba.com/register Key Takeaways: Data Insights isn't new—it's reframed. Most of the section comes from Integrated Reasoning, with Data Sufficiency moved in and expanded beyond pure math. Think like a manager, not a test-taker. Your job isn't to solve everything—it's to determine what information is needed to make a decision. Be proactive before reading the data. Clarify what the question is asking and what you need before diving into statements, graphs, or tables. Analyze statements independently in Data Sufficiency. Never carry information from one statement into the other unless the answer choices explicitly require combining them. Don't overanalyze the data. Data Insights questions intentionally include more information than you need—focus on structure first, details second. Use the calculator selectively. It can help with relative comparisons, but overuse often wastes time and isn't necessary for most questions. Invest time upfront to save time later. A quick "inventory" of graphs, tables, or tabs helps you answer multiple questions more efficiently. Multi-Source Reasoning is intimidating—but valuable. The upfront reading pays off since multiple questions can stem from the same data set. Time management beats perfection. If you're stuck, make an educated guess, flag the question, and move on—getting it wrong quickly is better than getting it wrong slowly. Data Insights mirrors business school and real work. Synthesizing data, prioritizing relevance, and making decisions under time pressure are exactly the skills MBA programs care about. Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Data Insights in GMAT 03:33 Data Sufficiency: Key Concepts and Strategies 24:34 Calculator Strategy 25:58 Time Management Going into the Next Four Question Types 29:32 Efficient Data Analysis Strategies 33:22 Specific Tactics for Graphics Interpretation 34:55 Table Analysis 36:33 Mastering Table Analysis Techniques 42:22 Approaching Two-Part Analysis Questions 48:44 Understanding Multi-Source Reasoning 53:39 Time Management Tips for GMAT Success

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