The GMAT can often be complex. The goal is simple: to get a score that is well above 700, but the journey to the best Business Schools in the world is not always easy. Even though there have been volumes written on the best way to prepare, and things to keep in mind to ensure success, candidates will still make mistakes - even some of the best informed.

Here is a look at 6 GMAT mistakes, short notes on how to avoid them, and the suggested course of action in each case:

1. Not starting early enough

People who take the GMAT are usually very busy, and their attention is often diverted by work pressures, other applications, and physical tiredness. The only way to solve this problem is to start months – possibly even a year – in advance.

2. Not finding a coach right off the bat

You always need a coach to keep your preparation on track, and many candidates start off thinking that they will do it on their own, and then decide to change their minds. Why do it alone when you can work with someone who has succeeded a thousand times?

3. Spending too much time on one topic

If you are not improving at one kind of question after repeated work, the marginal utility of spending more of the same kind of time is probably not too high. It is best to take a short break and come back with a new and improved approach.

4. Listening to uninformed people

The GMAT is an accessible examination, but it is also something that you should only learn about from experts. It is important to filter out voices that do not have proven success at this test, and to listen only to those who are credible because of past successes. In general, listen to a small circle of people, who know much more than you do about the GMAT, and drown out the rest of the noise.

5. Not practicing enough

This is true at two levels: some candidates just do not work out enough questions, and this adversely affects their performance. However, some GMAT aspirants work out many problems, and still fall short – this is because their simulations are often not realistic. Until you have taken a mock test that is exactly like the real thing, you cannot be confident that you are ready for the big day. Make sure that you get access to as many realistic simulations as possible through your coaching.

6. Not staying motivated

The best way to spur yourself to further excellence on the GMAT is to keep your eyes firmly fixed on the big prize – the big global MBA that stands at the end of the road.

Now that we have discussed what mistakes you should avoid so as to get to the global Business School of your dreams, why don’t you schedule an appointment at the nearest Jamboree centre, and get on the fast track? All the best!

This article is provided by our partners Jamboree Education