I. Introduction
A. Challenges of preparing for the GMAT
Preparing for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) can be a daunting task. This standardized test is used to evaluate the aptitudes of applicants seeking admission into graduate management programs around the world. The GMAT assesses a candidate’s analytical, logical, and critical thinking abilities, as well as their writing and mathematical skills. Since this test is an essential part of the admission process for business schools, it is imperative for students to be sufficiently prepared.
To adequately prepare for the GMAT, students must be familiar with the exam format, the types of questions asked, and the time constraints. The GMAT comprises four sections – analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning. The analytical writing section requires students to analyze an argument and write an essay. The integrated reasoning section assesses the candidates’ ability to examine data presented in multiple formats. The quantitative reasoning section evaluates their mathematical skills, and the verbal reasoning tests the students’ reading comprehension, critical thinking, and ability to analyze arguments in written communication.
One of the primary challenges of preparing for the GMAT is time management. The test is timed, and students only have a set amount of time to complete each section. Some sections have shorter timeframes than others, with the quantitative and verbal reasoning sections having approximately 62 minutes each, while the analytical writing section lasts for 30 minutes. Despite the allocated times, some students may struggle to finish all the questions within each section. Hence, students must strategize and learn time management techniques to help them maximize their use of the time they have.
Another significant challenge of preparing for the GMAT is a lack of study materials or time constraints. Adequate preparation requires sufficient study materials, and poor quality ones can hinder a student’s progress. It takes time, effort, and dedication to prepare for the GMAT, and students may have other competing commitments that make studying challenging. These can include full-time jobs, familial responsibilities or other academic obligations. Finding the right resources and making enough time to study can be challenging, and it requires discipline, sacrifice, and commitment.
Additionally, test anxiety can be a significant hindrance to success when preparing for the GMAT. Some students may experience anxiety when taking tests, which can impair their cognitive abilities and hinder their performance. Test anxiety can manifest in several ways, such as nervousness, apprehension, and panic, which can lead to poor performance. Finding effective techniques to manage test anxiety, such as deep breathing or meditation, can significantly enhance preparation and performance.
In conclusion, preparing for the GMAT requires careful planning, dedication, effort, and time management techniques. With adequate study materials, discipline, and effective time management, students can overcome the challenges of insufficient resources or competing commitments. Additionally, learning techniques to manage test anxiety can also help students excel when taking the exam. It is essential to remind students that adequate preparation is crucial for their success in both the GMAT and beyond.
B. Overview of how to cheat your way to a great GMAT score from home
Cheating on the GMAT is not new, but it is becoming more prevalent with the availability of online tests. There are several ways in which people cheat, and the following are some of the most common methods:
1. Looking up answers: One of the most straightforward methods is to look up answers on the internet. Test-takers can utilize messaging apps, search engines or hire individuals who offer to complete the test using their expertise. Some test-takers pay several thousand dollars to have others take the test for them.
2. Using other devices: Test-takers can use their tablets or smartphones to take pictures of the questions and send them to other people who can offer solutions. They can also use external support desktops and applications to aid in answering the questions.
3. Impersonation: Test-takers may have someone else take the test for them, especially since it is not proctored in person. It is possible to hire someone to take the test for them or pretend to be someone else.
4. Screen-splitting: Some test-takers take advantage of the split-screen option on their laptops, which allows them to have multiple applications open at once. They can have the GMAT test open on one side of the screen and have an online resource like Google or another person’s live stream on the other side.
With these methods, many are cheating their way to a higher GMAT score in the comfort of their homes. However, the GMAC has put measures in place to deal with such cheating attempts. The institution uses video surveillance as part of their proctoring software that monitors test-takers throughout the exam. The system tracks eye movement and detects any suspicious behavior, such as looking away from the screen or asking someone for assistance. It also has strict rules that forbid the use of other devices and websites during the test.
II. Methods of GMAT Preparation
1. Self-Study:
Self-study is one of the most popular methods of GMAT preparation. It is a cost-effective and flexible way of preparing for the exam. Here are some tips for effective self-study:
1. Plan your study schedule: Create a study plan that includes the topics you need to cover, the time you will spend on each one, and the dates of your practice tests.
2. Use official study materials: Use the official GMAT study guide, practice exams, and other materials to ensure that you are studying the right content and format.
3. Practice regularly: Take advantage of available practice materials and questions, such as GMAT prep apps, to practice regularly.
4. Identify your weaknesses: Ensure that you are spending more time on your weaker areas and less time on your strengths.
5. Time yourself: Practice taking the timed exam, so you get used to the timing and know your pace during the actual exam.
6. Use technology to your advantage: There is plenty of software that can help you prepare for the GMAT, such as GMAT math apps and GMAT flashcard apps.
7. Take breaks: It’s important to take short breaks in between study sessions to avoid fatigue and burnout.
8. Review your progress: Track your progress and identify the areas you need to improve upon to better allocate your time during the self-study period.
2. Online Courses:
Online courses have become increasingly popular for GMAT preparation because they offer convenience and flexibility for busy professionals who need to study at their own pace. Online courses usually include video lectures, interactive practice questions, and full-length practice tests. Some of the best online courses for GMAT preparation are:
1. Manhattan Prep: This course has live online classes as well as a full library of on-demand video lessons. It also offers a wide range of study materials and practice questions.
2. Veritas Prep: This course uses a personalized approach to GMAT preparation, with one-on-one coaching and a customized study plan. It also includes video lessons, practice questions, and full-length practice tests.
3. Kaplan: This course offers a variety of online resources for GMAT prep, including live online classroom sessions and a self-paced study course. It also includes an adaptive learning technology that adjusts to your strengths and weaknesses.
4. Magoosh: This self-paced online course offers video lessons, practice questions, and interactive quizzes. It also includes a mobile app for on-the-go studying.
5. The Economist GMAT Tutor: This online course offers a personalized study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses. It includes video lessons, practice questions, and full-length practice tests.
3. Tutoring:
Tutoring is a popular method of GMAT preparation for students who need personalized guidance and support. Working with a GMAT tutor allows students to tailor their study plan to their strengths and weaknesses, and receive one-on-one attention to address their individual needs.
Tutors can help students identify their problem areas, develop test-taking strategies, and provide feedback on practice exams. They can also provide motivation and accountability, helping students stay on track and focused throughout their GMAT prep journey.
When choosing a GMAT tutor, it is important to look for someone with expertise in the exam and positive reviews from previous students. Tutors with a track record of success can often provide valuable insights and tips for achieving a top score.
GMAT tutors may offer in-person or online sessions, depending on the student’s preferences and availability. Online tutoring can be especially convenient and flexible, allowing students to work with a tutor from anywhere, at any time.
While tutoring can be a more expensive option than self-study, it can also be a worthwhile investment for students who want a personalized and comprehensive GMAT preparation experience. Ultimately, the value of tutoring will depend on the individual student’s needs, goals, and budget.
4. Classroom Courses:
Classroom courses offer structured GMAT preparation under the guidance of experienced instructors. These courses provide an interactive learning environment, individualized feedback, and engagement with peer groups. Classroom courses are available in-person or online, with some offering flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy schedules.
Most classroom courses cover all aspects of the GMAT, including the quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing sections. Instructors provide lectures on important concepts, strategies for approaching different types of questions, and tips for managing test anxiety. Students have the opportunity to practice problems in class and receive immediate feedback from their instructor.
Furthermore, classroom courses usually include access to study materials, practice tests, and personalized study plans to help students track their progress and identify areas for growth. Additionally, instructors usually offer support after class hours to answer questions, provide additional coaching, and offer guidance and motivation.
Overall, classroom courses can be a great option for students who need the structure and guidance of an experienced instructor, enjoy in-person interaction with peers, and benefit from scheduled learning. Though these courses can be costly, their benefits are worth it for many students when it comes to achieving their desired GMAT score.
5. Practice Tests:
Practice tests are an integral part of preparing for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). It enables the students to focus on their strengths and weaknesses, and to develop strategies to tackle the exam so that they can achieve their desired score.
There are several different types of practice tests available, including official GMAT mock exams and tests from test preparation companies. These tests cover all of the sections of the GMAT, including analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning.
By taking multiple practice tests, students gain experience with the exam’s format and timing, build their endurance and develop time-management skills. It also helps them identify areas needing improvement and practice on individual sections to enhance their performance, leading to a higher score.
It is critical to take practice tests under test-taking conditions, such as timing oneself and completing the sections in a quiet environment, to replicate the actual exam’s experiences. Practice tests can be used to track progress over time and to adjust the study plan to address areas that need more attention.
In conclusion, practicing with different types of practice tests helps students prepare comprehensively for the GMAT, identify their strengths and weaknesses and adjust their study plan accordingly, leading to improved performance and a higher score on the actual exam.
6. Study Groups:
To form a study group, start by reaching out to people who are also preparing for the GMAT exam – this could include fellow students or colleagues, people from GMAT forums, or even friends who are willing to study together. Once you have a group of people interested, establish a schedule of regular meetings that work for everyone, and decide on a location where everyone can meet.
During the study sessions, it’s important to focus on the most challenging topics and work collaboratively by sharing experiences, solving mock question papers, and reviewing each other’s takeaways. Consider taking turns to lead the study sessions, as each person may have proficiency in different areas and can share unique approaches to questions. Moreover, group members can serve as accountability partners, to keep each other on track and ensure that all members are putting in their best efforts.
In conclusion, the benefits of studying in a group include sharing knowledge, improving problem-solving skills, providing motivation, and holding each other accountable. Therefore, joining a study group can be an excellent way to prepare for GMAT and achieve better results.
III. Cheating Techniques
A. Explanation of cheating techniques
1. Fake Identities: Some candidates use fake identities to appear on the GMAT exam, mainly to bypass the eligibility criteria, such as minimum age or educational qualifications. They may forge their passport, driver’s license or other government-approved identification documents.
2. Copying from Others: Some candidates try to copy responses or answers from other test-takers before or during the test. They communicate with others through hand signals, notes, electronic devices or text messages.
3. Hacking or Tampering with the Testing System: Some candidates use hacker techniques to gain access to the test database, testing system, or computer network. They can change their scores or steal test questions before the actual exam.
4. Memorizing Questions: Some candidates memorize the test questions or answers before the exam. They use the same questions or answers in the actual test, despite appearing in the test for the first time.
5. Pre-arranged Answers: Some candidates agree in advance with a group of test-takers to select the same answers or change answers at a predetermined time. This technique is known as ‘answer trading’ and is difficult to detect.
6. Ghostwriters or Surrogates: Some candidates hire someone else to take the GMAT exam on their behalf. They may also hire professional test-takers, known as ‘surrogates,’ to impersonate them in the test. This technique is difficult to detect without proper surveillance.
7. Fake Disability Claims: Some candidates falsely claim disabilities or medical conditions to get extra time or other accommodations in the test. This technique is illegal and unethical, as it deprives other candidates who have genuine disabilities.
B. Benefits and limitations of cheating
Benefits of GMAT cheating:
1. It Increases Chances of Admission: A high score on the GMAT can increase a student’s chances of being accepted into the business school of their choice. GMAT cheating can significantly enhance the score and increase the chances of a student being accepted into that institution.
2. Saves Time and Money: Preparing for GMAT involves a significant amount of time and effort. Upon completion of the test and scoring poorly can lead to feelings of hopelessness and a total waste of time and money. GMAT cheating, on the other hand, results in a higher score that justifies the amount of time and money invested in the test.
3. Boosts Self-Esteem: Students who cheat on the GMAT often feel a sense of pride and accomplishment for having bypassed the rigors of the examination process. They also have a chance to showcase their false achievements to family, friends, and colleagues, which boost their self-esteem.
Limitations of GMAT cheating:
1. Ethical Dilemma: Cheating on the GMAT is an ethical dilemma. It involves using illegal means to dishonestly gain an advantage over other law-abiding applicants. This decision may haunt a person for a long time, affecting their integrity and reputation in the future.
2. Consequence of Discovery: The penalties for GMAT cheating are severe, including being banned from retaking the test or in extreme cases being disbarred from applying to certain top business schools. Also, a person may be denied admission to other schools because of their previous dishonest act.
3. Incomplete Education: An education that is built on deception can only produce limited results that are often temporary. For those who cheat on the GMAT, the knowledge and skills required for success in their chosen profession may lack the necessary depth and substance that is required for long-term success.
In summary, the act of GMAT cheating has both benefits and limitations. While it may give students short-term gains, it is often outweighed by the long-term negative consequences of their actions. Honesty and hard work are important attributes that will serve students well in life, even if the reward is not immediate.
C. Effective cheating techniques for GMAT
- Impersonation: Impersonation is another technique used to cheat on the GMAT. Some individuals may hire another person who looks like them to take the test for them.
- Ghostwriters: Ghostwriters are people who take the GMAT on behalf of someone else for financial incentive. This is a highly illegal and fraudulent practice.
- Hacking the Test: Some students have tried to hack the GMAT test, but it is unlikely to be successful. GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) has robust security measures that identify any hacking attempt and can cause a lifetime ban to the test-taker.
- Smartwatch：Many students have used smartwatches to cheat on the GMAT. They can store notes, formulas, and other information that can be easily accessed during the exam. Some students have also used smartwatches to receive answers from someone else who is taking the test remotely.
- Hidden Earpiece：A hidden earpiece is another popular tool for cheating on the GMAT. Test takers can receive answers from someone else who is either taking the test remotely or has access to the questions and answers. The earpiece can be disguised as a hearing aid, making it less noticeable.
- Spy Camera Glasses：Spy camera glasses are another high-tech cheating technique that some students have used on the GMAT. They can record the exam questions and send them to someone else who is taking the test remotely. The person can then send back the answers, which can be viewed through the glasses.
IV. Advantages of cheating your way to a great GMAT score from home
A. Time flexibility
One significant advantage of GMAT cheating is time flexibility.
The GMAT is a challenging test that requires several weeks or months of preparation in advance. It consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative Reasoning (QR), and Verbal Reasoning (VR). The entire test lasts around three and a half hours. Students who fail to prepare adequately for the test risk getting low scores that may affect their admission chances in top business schools.
Cheating can help students save time and meet deadlines for submitting their scores to graduate schools. It allows them to cut corners in their preparation and quickly achieve high scores. For instance, some websites offer “GMAT hacks” that provide test-takers with answers to sample questions. Others provide “live cheating” services where test-takers can pay someone to take the test on their behalf. These services attract students who are desperate to achieve a high GMAT score but do not have time to prepare adequately.
The time flexibility advantage of GMAT cheating is particularly important for students who work full-time or have other commitments in addition to their studies. Such students often find it challenging to balance their work, family, and GMAT preparation. Cheating can help reduce the amount of time they spend studying, thereby allowing them to focus on other activities that matter. Instead of spending several months studying for the GMAT, they can use cheat sheets or other cheating methods to get a high score quicker.
GMAT cheating can also be helpful for students who struggle with standardized tests. Some students may find the test format challenging or experience exam anxiety, which can affect their performance. Cheating can help such students gain confidence and improve their self-esteem by obtaining a high score without going through the rigors of test preparation.
B. Save Cost
One of the most significant advantages of cheating on the GMAT is the potential to save costs. Students may feel that paying for test preparation materials, courses, and study tools is a waste of money, and they believe that cheating can help them get the scores they need to get into top business schools without spending a lot of money on test preparation.
By cheating on the GMAT, students can potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in test preparation costs. Many test preparation courses and study materials can be expensive, and students may not have the financial resources to afford them. Cheating may seem like an attractive option for those who are unable or unwilling to pay for these resources.
Cheating on the GMAT may also save costs in terms of retaking the exam. Many business schools require applicants to take the GMAT multiple times, and each time requires a new registration fee. Cheating may help students avoid having to retake the exam, and thereby saving even more money.
C. Easy access to study materials and resources
One of the biggest advantages of cheating on the GMAT is access to study materials and resources. Many students struggle to prepare for the test on their own and need additional resources to help them. Cheaters have a much easier time getting their hands on such resources. Some of the resources they can use include test questions and answers, study guides, test-taking strategies, and even private tutors.
V. Conclusion
A. Risks and Consequences of Cheating
First, cheating undermines the integrity of the GMAT exam and the business school admissions process. Cheating violates several professional standards, including academic honesty, professionalism, and ethical behavior. Business schools hold their students and graduates to the highest ethical and moral standards, and cheating violates these standards. Students found cheating on the GMAT exam not only face the denial of admission to the business school but also the suspension of their academic credentials, which can hinder their future career prospects. Cheating also undermines the integrity of the business community, hurting public trust and corporate reputations.
Second, cheating undermines the value of education and the business school curriculum. Cheating implies that students lack the necessary academic and intellectual competencies, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, needed for their future careers. Cheating undermines the value of education and the professional development that students attain through years of rigorous academic and experiential learning. Business school curricula are designed to ensure that students acquire the necessary competencies and knowledge needed for their future careers. Cheating thereby devalues the qualifications and competencies of those who have worked hard and earned their degrees.
Third, cheating undermines the character and integrity of the cheater. Cheating reflects poorly on the cheater’s character, which can impact their career and personal development. Cheating, when discovered, can lead to reputational damage, financial losses, and legal consequences. Furthermore, cheating undermines the personal and professional development of the student, denying them the opportunity to grow their character and develop their ethical and moral ideals.
B. Choosing the right approach
Self-Study
Self-study is the most flexible and cost-effective approach to preparing for the GMAT. Many test-takers choose self-study because it allows them to create a study plan that fits their schedule and learning style. Self-study materials, such as textbooks, online courses, and practice tests, are widely available, making it easy to prepare for the exam from anywhere.
The drawback of self-study is that it requires a great deal of self-discipline and motivation. It can be difficult to stay motivated and on track when studying alone, especially if there are other demands on your time. Additionally, self-study may not be sufficient for those who need more personalized instruction or who struggle with specific areas of the exam.
GMAT Prep Courses
GMAT prep courses are designed to provide test-takers with structured and personalized instruction. These courses typically offer in-depth coverage of the exam content, strategy tips, and practice tests. GMAT prep courses may be offered in-person, online, or via self-paced modules.
The benefit of GMAT prep courses is that they provide a structured and focused approach to exam preparation. They also offer opportunities for interaction with instructors and fellow students, which can be helpful for those who thrive in a group learning environment. The drawback of GMAT prep courses is that they can be expensive, and the quality of instruction may vary.
Tutoring
Tutoring is a highly personalized and tailored approach to GMAT preparation. Tutors work with students one-on-one to identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop a customized study plan. Tutors can provide individualized instruction, answer questions, and provide feedback on practice exams.
The benefit of tutoring is that it provides students with highly personalized and targeted instruction. Tutors can work with students to address specific areas of weakness and provide individualized feedback. The drawback of tutoring is that it is the most expensive option and may not be feasible for all students.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to GMAT preparation. The choice of approach will depend on a variety of factors, including your budget, schedule, learning style, academic background, and career goals. It is important to carefully evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each approach before making a decision. Whether you choose self-study, GMAT prep courses, or tutoring, it is essential that you create a realistic study plan, stay motivated, and trust the process. With the right approach, you can achieve your GMAT goals and take the next step in your career.
C. Final thoughts
On one hand, cheating on the GMAT may seem like a quick and easy way to achieve a high score, which could open up opportunities for better job prospects or admission to highly competitive graduate programs. However, cheating can have serious consequences, including getting caught and facing penalties such as being barred from taking the GMAT again, having scores flagged as invalid by schools or employers, and damaging one’s reputation and credibility.
Moreover, cheating undermines the integrity and fairness of the testing process, as it enables individuals to gain an unfair advantage over those who put in effort and preparation to earn their scores. Cheating also poses risks for educational institutions, employers, and society at large by admitting or hiring individuals who may lack the skills and knowledge necessary for success, which can lead to negative outcomes such as poor academic or job performance, reduced productivity, and unethical behavior.
On the other hand, some argue that the GMAT is an imperfect and biased test that does not accurately measure one’s abilities or potential, and that the pressure to achieve high scores can lead to stress, anxiety, and inequalities in access to education and opportunities. They contend that cheating may serve as a form of resistance or circumvention against a flawed and unfair system, especially for marginalized and underprivileged groups who may face cultural or socioeconomic barriers that affect their performance on standardized tests.
However, such arguments are ultimately flawed, as cheating does not address the root causes of these inequalities or advocate for systemic change. Moreover, cheating reinforces the same hierarchies and inequalities it seeks to redress, by allowing those with greater access to resources and privileges to gain an advantage over those who lack them, thereby perpetuating rather than challenging the unequal distribution of opportunities.
In conclusion, while the temptation to cheat on the GMAT may seem alluring, it is not worth the risks, ethical implications, and potential long-term consequences. Instead, aspiring applicants should focus on developing their skills, knowledge, and mindset through authentic learning, preparation, and reflection, and seek out equitable and inclusive educational environments that nurture their potential and amplify their voices.