GMAT 700+ Study Plan: Step-by-Step Guide to Cracking the Exam

Scoring 700 or above on the GMAT is a dream for many MBA aspirants. Such a score not only boosts your chances of getting into top-tier business schools but also strengthens your application for scholarships. However, reaching that benchmark requires more than just hard work—it requires a smart, structured, and disciplined approach. That's where a carefully designed GMAT 700+ study plan comes in.

In this step-by-step guide, we'll break down how you can prepare effectively, manage your time, and use the right resources to aim confidently for a 700+ GMAT score.

Why a GMAT 700+ Score Matters

The GMAT is designed to test analytical, reasoning, and problem-solving skills under pressure. A 700+ score demonstrates that you have the academic readiness and critical thinking ability required for the rigor of a global MBA program. Top B-schools like Harvard, Wharton, INSEAD, LBS, and ISB typically receive thousands of applications, and your GMAT score often acts as the first filter.

With so much at stake, preparing with a GMAT 700+ study plan isn't optional—it's essential.

Step 1: Understand the GMAT Structure

Before building a study plan, familiarize yourself with the test format:

  • Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): 1 essay, 30 minutes.

  • Integrated Reasoning (IR): 12 questions, 30 minutes.

  • Quantitative Reasoning: 31 questions, 62 minutes.

  • Verbal Reasoning: 36 questions, 65 minutes.

Scoring 700+ requires consistently strong performance across Quant and Verbal, with decent scores in AWA and IR.

Step 2: Take a Diagnostic Test

The first step of any GMAT 700+ study plan is identifying your baseline. A diagnostic test helps you:

  • Measure your starting score.

  • Identify strengths and weaknesses.

  • Build a personalized preparation roadmap.

If your score is below 600, you may need a longer preparation timeline (5–6 months). If you're already near 650, a focused 2–3 month plan might be enough.

Step 3: Build a Realistic Timeline

Your study plan should be tailored to your daily schedule and test date. Here's a suggested timeline for a 3-month GMAT 700+ study plan:

Month 1 – Building Fundamentals

  • Strengthen basics in Quant (algebra, arithmetic, geometry, data interpretation).

  • Learn GMAT-specific Verbal strategies (critical reasoning, sentence correction, reading comprehension).

  • Practice 10–15 questions daily in both Quant and Verbal.

  • Review IR and AWA formats.

Month 2 – Practice & Strategy

  • Start timed practice sessions.

  • Take 1–2 full-length mock tests.

  • Focus on weak areas identified in Month 1.

  • Learn pacing strategies (guessing intelligently, skipping tough questions).

Month 3 – Intensive Revision & Mocks

  • Take 1–2 full-length adaptive tests weekly.

  • Analyze mistakes thoroughly.

  • Review formula sheets, grammar notes, and strategy guides.

  • Focus on stamina—simulate test-day conditions.

Step 4: Master Quantitative Reasoning

Quant may seem manageable to Indian students, but GMAT questions are tricky and test logic rather than rote memorization. Focus on:

  • Key Topics: Algebra, Arithmetic, Word Problems, Geometry, Probability, Data Sufficiency.

  • Daily Practice: 15–20 questions with time tracking.

  • Approach: Don't overcalculate—GMAT favors logical shortcuts.

  • Common Pitfall: Spending too much time on one problem. Learn when to move on.

Step 5: Strengthen Verbal Reasoning

Verbal is often the make-or-break section for Indian aspirants. For a GMAT 700+ study plan, mastering Verbal is crucial.

  • Sentence Correction (SC): Focus on grammar rules, modifiers, subject-verb agreement.

  • Critical Reasoning (CR): Practice identifying assumptions and flaws.

  • Reading Comprehension (RC): Read actively, identify main ideas, and avoid rereading.

Tip: Build vocabulary and reading speed with business journals and academic articles.

Step 6: Don't Neglect AWA and IR

Though AWA and IR don't count toward your 800 score, B-schools still review them. A strong performance adds credibility.

  • AWA: Practice essay structures—intro, examples, conclusion.

  • IR: Focus on charts, tables, and multi-source reasoning. Practice under time pressure.

Step 7: Take Regular Mock Tests

Mock tests are the backbone of any GMAT 700+ study plan. They help with:

  • Building stamina for the 3.5-hour exam.

  • Adapting to computer-adaptive testing.

  • Identifying weaknesses.

  • Practicing pacing strategies.

Aim for:

  • 1 mock test every two weeks in Month 1–2.

  • 1–2 mocks per week in the final month.

Always analyze mistakes—understand the “why” behind wrong answers.

Step 8: Use the Right Resources

The best resources for GMAT prep include:

  • Official GMAT Guide: Must-have for authentic questions.

  • Online Practice Portals: For adaptive mocks and analytics.

  • Coaching Programs: For expert guidance, strategies, and doubt-clearing.

A structured program with personalized mentoring often accelerates progress.

Step 9: Focus on Test-Taking Strategy

Scoring 700+ isn't only about knowledge—it's about strategy:

  • Time Management: Don't get stuck; every question is worth the same.

  • Guessing Wisely: Eliminate wrong options instead of random guessing.

  • Stamina Building: Simulate exam conditions during practice.

  • Confidence: Stay calm under pressure; panic leads to silly mistakes.

Step 10: Final Week Preparation

The last week is about polishing, not cramming.

  • Review formula sheets and grammar rules.

  • Revise error logs from past practice.

  • Take 1–2 final mock tests (not the day before the exam).

  • Sleep well and keep stress levels low.

Key Benefits of Following a GMAT 700+ Study Plan

  • Clear Roadmap: Prevents wasted time and effort.

  • Consistent Progress: Ensures steady score improvement.

  • Personalization: Focuses on your weak areas.

  • Confidence: Reduces exam-day anxiety.

Final Thoughts

Scoring 700+ on GMAT is not about studying harder, but studying smarter. With the right GMAT 700+ study plan, consistent practice, mock test analysis, and expert guidance, you can reach your target score.

Every aspirant's journey is different, but the principles remain the same—discipline, strategy, and structured learning. Whether you are a student or a working professional, following this step-by-step plan will maximize your chances of breaking into the 700+ club and securing admission into your dream business school.

FAQs

Q1. How many hours per day should I study for GMAT 700+?

2–3 focused hours daily over 3–4 months is sufficient for most students.

Q2. Can a working professional follow a GMAT 700+ study plan?

Yes. With online coaching and flexible schedules, even busy professionals can prepare effectively.

Q3. How many mock tests are required for GMAT 700+?

At least 8–10 full-length mock tests before exam day.

Q4. Is Verbal more important than Quant for a 700+ score?

Both matter, but many students struggle in Verbal—so balanced preparation is key.

Q5. Can I score 700+ without coaching?

Self-study is possible, but structured guidance and mentorship often accelerate progress.