GMAT Cafe

Every GMAT test-taker has the option of taking two breaks in between the GMAT exam. One break is between the AWA and the quantitative section and the other is between the quantitative and the verbal section. Each break is of ten minutes length, which includes your sign-in and sign-out time. If you fail to return and sign-in on time, your next section will automatically begin.

This post deals with things you can do in your optional breaks to enhance your test experience. Any experienced test-taker or instructor would recommend taking the breaks. It is during these breaks you can freshen up, regain your mental stamina and prepare yourself mentally for the next section. These breaks can be very crucial to your GMAT exam.

Personal items such as cell phones, food, drinks, watches, purses, handbags etc. will not be allowed inside your testing room. After you check in, you will be asked to deposit all your personal items in a locker. During the breaks, you are allowed to access your lockers.

Once you complete a section, you will be presented with an option of taking a break. You can raise your hand, there will be a person who will assist you to sign-out of your test for your break. After you sign out, you cannot stay inside the testing room.

During this break

• You are allowed to use the rest room.
• You are allowed to access your locker.
• You are allowed to eat.
• You are allowed to go out of the test center.

It is advisable to carry some snacks, which you can eat during the breaks. Some people suggest carrying a bar of chocolate, or a banana. Also, carry a sugary drink. Try not to eat and drink too much.

The best thing you can do during the breaks is, wash your face (especially the temples) with cold water. Nature has taken some precautions to save us in case we, human beings, drop into water. This is known as the Diver’s reflex. When your face hits the water, the brain sends signals to the body to slow down metabolism. Thus freeing up more oxygen for the brain to use, and thus allowing us to stay under water longer. Now, this wont help you to score high on GMAT, but, this will help to alert you brain.

If you have the time, you can go out of the test-center and get some fresh air. Try not to think about how the previous section went. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and relax. Focus your mind on the next section. Get yourself mentally prepared to answer the questions of the next section.

Remember, your breaks are only ten minutes long. If you exclude the sign-in and sign-out time, you would be left with around 8-9 minutes. You have to return on time, if you want to avoid the risk of losing out precious exam time.

When you take your practice tests at home, try and simulate the exam conditions. Take the optional breaks and do the same things you plan to do on the exam day. This would give you a general idea of the things you can squeeze into your break time.