What not to do 24 hours before the GMAT!

The GMAT is a difficult test. However, you do not need to make the experience any tougher by making critical mistakes on or before your test day.  While not getting a good night of sleep before taking the GMAT may sound silly, you would be surprised how many people fail to do so.

The night before the GMAT

Do not study the night before your GMAT! I know that you may want to review your idiom list for the last time.  But remember, if you decide to study one GMAT concept, then you may be tempted to study other GMAT concepts.  Therefore, go to bed early, and do not worry about the test. You do not want to take the GMAT, while you are tired.

A positive routine on test day

Do not wake up at 5 A.M., unless you need to be up at this time to make it to the testing center.  Otherwise, enjoy an extra hour of sleep on me! Once you wake up, make sure that you eat a healthy breakfast.  Taking the GMAT on an empty stomach can cause you to become irritable during the test!  You do not want to feel ill or uncomfortable during the GMAT; otherwise, your overall score may suffer.

On the other hand, if you are taking the GMAT in the afternoon, remember not to skip lunch, and drink some liquids before heading to the test center.  This may sound like a cliché; however, on test day, you will need brain power (food) to achieve your best efforts.

Going to and arriving at the GMAT center

Please visit the test center at least a week before taking the GMAT.  You do not want to be late for your appointment.  You just do not need that kind of stress on your test day!  As a result, try to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time.

It is important to come to the testing center with your state issued ID. For some non-citizen test takers, you may be required to produce a Passport or other forms of ID.  I also advise you to bring nothing else with you to the testing center; you will be required to empty your pockets before sitting at your test terminal.  Believe me; you cannot even bring a tissue to blow your nose in the testing room.  In addition, your palm vein will be checked before you enter and after you exit the testing room, even for a break after you complete a test section.

Conclusion

In order for your test day to run smoothly, follow my advise.  Get some good sleep, and do not study the night before the GMAT.  Eat breakfast and lunch, if you are taking the GMAT in the afternoon.  Alternatively, if you are taking the GMAT in the morning, do not leave the house without breakfast.  Lastly, bring your ID so that you can take your test at the scheduled time.