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Preparing for the Executive Assessment in 3 months is doable, especially for busy professionals. A well-structured 12-week plan focused on Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Integrated Reasoning can help you build confidence and hit your target score. Focus on consistent practice, official question types, and time management to maximize results in a short window.
Here are the topics we’ll cover:
- What’s Tested on the Executive Assessment
- Your 3-Month EA Study Plan
- Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s Next?
What’s Tested on the Executive Assessment
Before discussing Executive Assessment preparation tips, let’s review some basics of the EA exam. The Executive Assessment takes 90 minutes to complete and is composed of 3 sections. There are no scheduled breaks, so you’ll need to be ready to work straight through.
The test is divided into the following sections:
- Integrated Reasoning
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
Each section is timed at 30 minutes, and the order is always the same: Integrated Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, then Quantitative Reasoning.
KEY FACT:
The Executive Assessment is 90 minutes long, with no built-in break.
Integrated Reasoning
In the IR section, you’ll encounter 4 types of Data Analysis questions, each with a unique format:
- Graphics Interpretation: You’ll be given a graph or diagram and be asked to complete 2 fill-in-the-blank statements. Each blank has its own drop-down menu with several answer options.
- Multi-Source Reasoning: These questions show information across multiple tabs — think text passages, charts, or tables. You will analyze and compare the sources to answer the questions.
- 2-Part Analysis: You’ll get a short scenario and 2 columns of answer choices. You must pick 1 answer from each column to complete the task.
- Table Analysis: You’ll be shown a sortable table — similar to a spreadsheet — followed by 3 statements. For each one, you’ll decide whether it’s accurate based on the data.
Since Integrated Reasoning draws on both Quant and Verbal topics, it’s best to save it for the end of the learning phase once you have fully mastered EA Quant and Verbal.
TTP PRO TIP:
Study Integrated Reasoning after completing Quant and Verbal.
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section of the Executive Assessment is divided into 2 modules, with a total of 14 multiple-choice questions. Notably, the first module includes 7 questions and lasts 15 minutes. The second contains 7 questions and gives you another 15 minutes.
You’ll be tested on 3 key areas: Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, and Sentence Correction.
Here’s a breakdown of each area:
- Reading Comprehension: Read 1- to 2-paragraph passages and answer questions that assess your ability to understand and analyze what you’ve read. These questions may ask you to identify the author’s main point, evaluate the structure of an argument, or interpret specific details from the text.
- Critical Reasoning: These questions measure how well you can assess and analyze arguments. You might be asked to identify assumptions, evaluate evidence, spot flaws in reasoning, or choose statements that strengthen or weaken a conclusion.
- Sentence Correction: These questions test your command of grammar, sentence structure, and clarity. Specifically, in a Sentence Correction question, you’ll see a sentence with part of it underlined, followed by 5 options.
The first option, choice (A), repeats the underlined portion exactly as it appears in the sentence. The other 4 choices offer different versions of that underlined portion. Your goal is to choose the option that results in the most effective sentence, one that is both grammatically correct and clearly communicates the intended meaning.
KEY FACT:
Verbal Reasoning on the Executive Assessment includes Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, and Sentence Correction.
Quantitative Reasoning
The Quantitative Reasoning section of the Executive Assessment is divided into 2 modules, with a total of 14 questions. You have 15 minutes to complete 7 questions in the first section, and 15 minutes for 7 questions in the second.
This section focuses on your ability to analyze quantitative information and solve problems using core math concepts. You can expect questions covering the following topics:
- Arithmetic
- Ratios and Percents
- Rates, Work Problems, and Unit Conversion
- Number Properties
- Linear and Quadratic Equations
- Roots and Exponents
- Inequalities and Absolute Value
- Functions and Sequences
- Statistics
- Combinations and Probability
- Overlapping Sets
- Coordinate Geometry
There are 2 question types:
- Problem Solving: These are standard multiple-choice math questions. You’ll be presented with a problem and 5 answer choices — only 1 is correct.
- Data Sufficiency: These questions test your ability to assess whether the information provided is enough to solve a problem. You won’t actually solve the problem; instead, you’ll decide whether the given statements are sufficient to answer the question.
KEY FACT:
The Quant section of the Executive Assessment includes Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency questions.
Your 3-Month EA Study Plan
Now, let’s dive into your Executive Assessment study plan.
First Week: Set the Stage for Your EA Study Plan
In the first week, you will set the stage for your successful 3-month run at the EA by completing a variety of activities. Let’s look at each of them.
Get Registered
First, register for your Executive Assessment. Once you have completed that step, begin learning more about the structure of the Executive Assessment so you’re ready to take a practice test and dive into your study plan.
TTP PRO TIP:
Before you begin your EA studying, register at the EA website and begin learning.
Determine Your Target and Baseline EA Scores
After that, check the average Executive Assessment scores for the business schools or executive programs you’re considering. Most programs share this information on their admissions websites, but if you can’t find it, contact the admissions office. Knowing the average scores will give you a solid benchmark to aim for.
Next, take an official EA practice test to get a baseline score. Before diving into the test, spend some time reviewing the format and question types so you know what to expect on exam day.
After the practice test, compare your score to your target score. Specifically, the gap between them will help you better refine your EA test prep timeline and determine how much total prep time you may need to spend over the next 3 months. Keep in mind that 3 months is a solid plan for EA exam prep for working professionals.
TTP PRO TIP:
Find out the average EA scores for your target schools and take a practice test early to help you build a realistic and focused prep plan.
Choose Your Study Materials
Next, take some time to explore and find the best resources for the Executive Assessment. You might consider using test prep books, working with a tutor, or joining a study group. However, many EA test-takers find that an online course is the most convenient and efficient option, especially when juggling work and other responsibilities.
A good online program will provide a structured study plan, clear lessons, targeted practice questions, video explanations, and performance tracking tools. For example, the Target Test Prep Executive Assessment Course offers a self-paced format with these features, making it a solid option for those looking to prepare in a focused and flexible way.
TTP PRO TIP:
Before you begin your prep, ensure that you have great study materials.
Next, we’ll begin the discussion of how to study for the Executive Assessment.
Create Your Daily Routine
A great Executive Assessment strategy is to set aside focused time for EA Studying. Since you’re studying for only 3 months, try to hit a minimum of 15 hours per week of studying.
Start by identifying the best time of day for your studying, whether it’s early morning before work or in the evening. Then, commit to that slot as part of your daily schedule. This way, you can hold yourself accountable and ensure you’re studying daily.
Also, make use of small pockets of time that fall outside your main study block, such as during your commute or lunch break. These moments are perfect for quick review sessions using your flashcards. Even short bursts of practice can reinforce key concepts and keep past material fresh. Sticking to this kind of routine can help you stay on track to reach your target score within 3 months.
TTP PRO TIP:
Build study time into your daily routine to ensure you’re studying for 15+ hours each week.
The 2 Phases of EA Preparation
Your Executive Assessment prep study plan can be divided into 2 main stages: the learning phase and the practice test phase.
For the 3-month study plan, the learning phase takes about 2 months. During that time, you’ll focus on mastering Quant, Verbal, and Integrated Reasoning. Specifically, this is where you build your foundation by developing content knowledge, reviewing concepts, and practicing individual question types.
Your final month of prep consists of the practice test phase. Notably, this is when full-length practice tests become a critical part of your routine. Your goal in this phase is to apply what you’ve learned in a timed setting and to assess your readiness.
It’s important to keep these 2 phases distinct. Aside from taking 1 full-length practice test early on to get a baseline score, you should avoid using additional tests until you’ve completed most of the learning phase.
TTP PRO TIP:
Save your practice exams for after you complete the learning phase of your prep.
Taking a test too early doesn’t offer much insight. For instance, if you haven’t covered number properties yet, and you get several such questions wrong, that result doesn’t tell you anything useful. Rather, it just confirms that you’re still learning.
Since there are only a few high-quality EA practice exams available, it’s best to use them strategically. Then, once your core prep is complete, you’ll have a solid base from which to measure real progress using those remaining exams.
Let’s now look at how to approach the learning phase efficiently.
The Learning Phase: Months 1 and 2
During the learning stage of your Executive Assessment prep, your focus will be on building the foundational knowledge needed to tackle the exam’s Quant, Verbal, and Integrated Reasoning sections. Over these 8 weeks, you’ll work through the key math, verbal, and integrated reasoning concepts tested on the EA.
As we previously discussed, before diving in, determine how much time you can realistically dedicate each day to your prep. Regardless of your academic or professional background, aiming for at least 2 hours per day or 15+ hours per week is a solid starting point. Ideally, you’re following a detailed and structured study plan, so you won’t have to waste mental energy deciding what to do for those 2 hours. Rather, it’s all laid out for you. In addition to the 2 hours of studying, be sure to do at least 10 minutes of flashcard review per day.
TTP PRO TIP:
If you’re following a structured study plan, you won’t have to think about what to study each day — you can just follow your study plan.
Next, let’s discuss how to get the most out of your learning phase.
Successfully Navigating the Learning Phase
During the learning stage of your EA prep, it’s essential to make the most of every study session. To do that, let’s discuss some efficient strategies that will help you build a strong foundation and use your time efficiently.
Strategy 1: Focus on 1 Topic at a Time
A topic-by-topic approach is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the EA. Instead of jumping around between different topics, concentrate on fully learning a single topic — such as quadratics, percentages, or rates — before moving on to the next.
This method ensures you build understanding in a logical order, starting with the basics of a topic and gradually tackling more advanced material. Once you study a topic, follow up with focused practice questions to reinforce what you’ve learned.
TTP PRO TIP:
Cover 1 topic at a time to build depth and avoid gaps in your understanding. This approach keeps your learning structured and efficient.
Strategy 2: Alternate Between Quantitative and Verbal Study
While some students prefer to study all Quant and then all Verbal, it’s not ideal to study only 1 section for an extended period, such as focusing exclusively on Quant for several weeks and then switching to Verbal. This kind of split approach often leads to weaker retention and a lack of continuity in your prep. This is why we have students work on both Quant and Verbal in most missions in the TTP study plan.
So, ensure that you alternate between Quant and Verbal throughout your study week. This keeps your knowledge fresh across all sections and helps avoid burnout from spending too long on a single topic. It also keeps your study routine varied and engaging, making it easier to stay motivated.
TTP PRO TIP:
Make sure you alternate between learning Quant and Verbal during your weekly study session.
Strategy 3: Take Notes as You Learn
During your Executive Assessment prep, it’s important to stay actively engaged with the material as you learn. It’s easy to fall into the trap of just reading lessons or watching videos without doing anything to reinforce the concepts. But passive learning alone won’t cut it.
A simple way to become a more active learner is to take notes in your own words as you work through each topic. Putting concepts into your own words forces you to process the information more deeply, which strengthens understanding and memory.
Another advantage of note-taking is that you create a reliable reference for future review. Furthermore, your notes also make it easier to build targeted flashcards that you can use throughout your prep.
TTP PRO TIP:
Avoid passive study by taking notes as you learn new EA quant, verbal, and integrated reasoning topics.
Strategy 4: Review What You’ve Learned
To retain what you’ve studied, it’s important to review previously covered topics consistently. If too much time passes without revisiting earlier material, there’s a strong chance you’ll forget it, especially as your study plan progresses and new topics are introduced.
Be sure to include periodic review quizzes in your EA study plan that let you work through Executive Assessment practice questions. Along with your flashcard review, these quizzes will help reinforce what you’ve already learned. Additionally, the results will show any areas where your understanding has slipped, allowing you to refocus before moving on.
In the TTP EA course, for example, students begin each new chapter with a short review quiz that pulls questions from earlier chapters. These quizzes help reinforce previously learned material and keep it fresh in your mind.
It’s also important to periodically complete larger mixed-topic review sets. In the TTP course, students work through 14-question review tests that draw from the previous 4 chapters. These tests are timed and are designed to closely resemble an actual EA Quant test section.
In addition to quizzes and tests, daily flashcard reviews and error log analysis are key. Use these tools to revisit concepts you’ve struggled with and track patterns in your mistakes.
TTP PRO TIP:
Incorporate review quizzes and mixed-topic tests into your weekly study plan.
Strategy 5: Review Your Error Log Weekly
It’s critical to review the questions you’ve answered incorrectly, and it’s just as important to track them. Understanding why you got a question wrong is key to preventing the same mistake in the future.
In the TTP Executive Assessment course, students use a built-in error log to monitor their performance. We recommend reviewing this log each week to identify patterns, fix misconceptions, and ensure that small gaps don’t turn into larger issues.
Regular error log reviews also help you spot any habits that could hurt your performance, such as rushing through questions or misreading answer choices.
Once you’ve worked through and practiced each EA topic in depth, revisited earlier material in mixed sets, and addressed your weak areas, you’ll have wrapped up the learning phase of your prep. From there, you’ll be ready to enter the next phase of your study plan: taking full-length practice exams to build stamina and sharpen your test-taking strategy.
TTP PRO TIP:
Review your error log weekly to identify and fix recurring mistakes in your practice.
The Practice Test Phase: Month 3
By month 3, you’ve wrapped up the learning phase of your Executive Assessment prep. At this point, you’ve gone through all the tested content and, ideally, have a solid handle on it. Now it’s time to shift your focus to applying that knowledge through full-length practice exams.
Take Your Practice Tests a Week or 2 Apart
Schedule time to take the 2 remaining full-length EA practice exams. These exams are key for simulating the real test environment, sharpening your pacing, building mental endurance, and identifying any final gaps in your preparation. However, unless you have completed the learning phase in full, you won’t get what you need out of these practice exams.
Make sure to space out your practice exams, ideally with 7 to 12 days in between. Taking the 2 remaining tests in 1 week won’t give you the time needed to analyze your results, work on weak areas, and reset mentally. By giving yourself 7+ days between tests, you’ll be better positioned to improve and show progress on the next one.
If you find that your scores are falling short of your goal, use the results to guide your next steps. Focus on the topics that are holding you back and spend time filling in those gaps. With a targeted approach, you’ll be much more likely to make the improvements needed to reach your goal.
TTP PRO TIP:
Spread your practice exams across several weeks, with 7+ days between each one.
Summary
You now have an effective 3-month study plan for the Executive Assessment. Let’s review the topics covered in this article.
Set the foundation in Week 1:
- Register for the EA and get familiar with the exam structure.
- Identify your target score by researching the score ranges of your target programs.
- Take your first full-length EA practice exam to establish your baseline score.
- Choose your study materials. Consider an online course that can offer structure and efficiency.
- Create a daily and weekly study schedule.
Over the next 2 months, focus on the learning phase with these strategies:
- Follow a topical approach — master 1 concept before moving on to the next.
- Alternate between Quant and Verbal prep to avoid burnout and boost retention.
- Take clear notes to support active learning.
- Regularly revisit earlier material to keep it fresh.
- Review your error log weekly to correct patterns and reinforce weak areas.
In the final month, shift into the practice test phase:
- Use any remaining official practice tests to simulate the real exam.
- Take 1 full-length test every 7 or more days.
- After each test, review every missed question and revisit related concepts.
With consistent effort and smart strategy, a 3-month prep window can be enough to succeed on the EA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 3 months enough to prepare for the Executive Assessment?
Yes, 3 months is a reasonable amount of time to prepare for the EA, especially with a consistent study schedule. Many working professionals prepare successfully within this timeframe. Just be sure to use your time efficiently and stay disciplined.
How many hours should I study per week for the EA?
Aim for around 15 hours per week, depending on your starting point. If you need a sizable score jump, consider increasing your weekly hours.
What are the most important sections to focus on?
All 3 sections, Integrated Reasoning, Verbal, and Quant, are important, as each contributes equally to your total score. That said, your focus should be guided by your initial practice test results. If a certain section is clearly weaker, allocate a bit more time there while still reviewing all areas regularly.
Do I need a tutor to prepare for the EA in 3 months?
A tutor isn’t necessary, but can be helpful if you’re short on time or having trouble with specific sections. Many people succeed through self-study using high-quality resources like Target Test Prep. That said, some students choose to supplement their prep with TTP private tutoring for extra support.
Can I use GMAT materials to prepare for the EA?
Yes, GMAT materials can be useful, particularly for Quant and Verbal practice. However, EA-specific prep is more beneficial because certain topics tested on the EA, like Sentence Correction, aren’t included on the GMAT. Focusing on EA-relevant content will make your prep more efficient.
What’s Next?
If you’re just beginning your EA prep, you may find it helpful to read more details about how to get started with your EA studying. If you’re close to taking your EA, then check out our article that provides EA test day tips.
