Customer Reviews

Cracking the GMAT CAT w/CD-ROM, 1999 Edition (Book and Disk)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(6)

 

 

This book has good strategies. The CD ROM has some defects, for example, if I want to redo a test, I need to reinstall the software, which is not a big deal. The clock works well on my three computers. I got consistent scores 640,710,690,670 I have bought Cat PrepSoftware from another big shot (Kaplan or Alan Stewart, forgot), you did the tests but you dont know the score. PR gives me an environment that most mimics the real. In one or 2 of the four tests, there is a repitition, but so what? That is in the end of the test which wont change your score.The last test does have a few wrong answers, but overall, this CATPrep is the best one I have ever had and now I am ready for the real test.

The book is O.K., but the CD-Rom that Princeton Review puts out is terrible. I echo the other comments on this page. Luckily, I didn't pay for mine - but my roommate did. Don't waste your money - buy Kaplan's.

I did read the reviews of last year's edition but figured the author would have fixed the CD's problem of only showing one of the three advertised practice tests. No luck...still only one visible. The book focusses more on "tricks" to improve your score than learning, which would be fine if the tricks weren't largely obvious like "process of elimination". It's a good complement to a host of soures, but as one source to prepare, I'd stick to something a little more academic. Especially if you are annoyed by being talked down to.

I was disappointed that the sample GMAT questions in this book were not real GMAT questions. I found the publication produced by GMAC (which does include real questions) much more useful. I also had problems with the software and when I was taking the sample test I got the same question twice. I did not have this problem with the GMAC Powerprep software. In addition, the test taking strategies outlined in the book are very basic. I would be suprised to learn that any real MBA candidate was not familiar with Process of Elimination.

While this book did offer general CAT test-taking strategies (though none of them earth-shattering), I was displeased with the quality of the CD-rom tests.

First, questions were repeated throughout the three exams, as well as online and in the book. What is the point in "testing" yourself if you have already studied the answer to a question or have read the reading comprehension paragraph before?

Second, despite relatively consistent raw scoring, my scores were so wildly divergent (750, 330!, and 650) that I never got an accurate measure of my ability. Okay, I may be a bit inconsistent in my testing, but come on!

Third, the clock malfunctioned on each and every exam.

PR should expect to receive a phone call and letter from me very soon!

The only helpful section in the book was the writing portion. The CD was pitiful. The built-in clock didn't work, the CAT lacked a sufficient number of problems, and some answers were incorrect. Overall, the test gives a false sense of security. I recommend a GMAT course, but not with Princeton Review or Kaplan. A local college extension may provide a more cost-effective course with good results. My score increased by 15% as a result of the course. This book and CD are a waste of money!

The book teaches some useful, time saving techniques that make the testing process more methodical. Although these techniques were useful, the CD tests were filled with bugs. I think the tests may give users a false sense of confidence.

This book was inciteful and indispensible. Don't waste your money on a course. It provides common sense tips that you would never think to emphasize. If you think you know it all, you need this book.

A friend of mine let me browse through his PR GMAT book (after complaining), to warn me about buying the CD-ROM version of this text for my wife. PR should be ashamed of themselves! The CD is terrible. I had a lot of regards for them before this book. I used them 2 years ago when I was preparing for grad school. Word to the wise "Kaplan rules".

The book is great for learning the tips and tricks of taking the GMAT and I am satisfied with it but the CD-ROM stinks. Terrible. It is buggy, it isn't what is advertised, and it craps out your machine (I tried it on two). I also found that one of the questions on the CD-ROM gives the wrong answer! The printed book gives one answer and the CD-ROM gives another! Terrible. Buy the Kaplan book if you are serious about studying for the GMAT - you will get the same tips and tricks and a CD-ROM that works!