GRE

Key Features of the GRE:

• Computer-Based Test: Most people take the GRE on a computer, though a paper-based version is available in some areas.

• Sections:

  1. Verbal Reasoning (Two sections)

  2. Quantitative Reasoning (Two sections)

  3. Analytical Writing (One section)

  4. Experimental Section (An unscored research section, which can be either verbal or quantitative).

• Scoring:

  • Verbal Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170 (in 1-point increments).

  • Quantitative Reasoning: Scored from 130 to 170 (in 1-point increments).

  • Analytical Writing: Scored from 0 to 6 (in half-point increments).

  • Total Score: The combined verbal and quantitative score ranges from 260 to 340.

GRE Test Structure:

1. Verbal Reasoning (Two Sections, 20 questions each):

• Types of Questions:

  • Reading Comprehension: Passages followed by questions that test your ability to understand, analyze, and draw conclusions from written material.

  • Text Completion: A passage with one or more blanks, and you need to choose the correct words to complete the passage.

  • Sentence Equivalence: A sentence with one blank, where you need to select two words that would both complete the sentence meaningfully.

Tips:

• Improve Vocabulary: A strong vocabulary is critical for understanding complex reading passages and choosing the correct answers in sentence completion.

• Practice Active Reading: Focus on understanding the main ideas and supporting details when reading GRE passages.

• Time Management: Practice reading comprehension with time limits. The GRE is a timed test, so managing your time effectively is important.

• Context Clues: Use context to help understand unfamiliar words in reading comprehension sections.

2. Quantitative Reasoning (Two Sections, 20 questions each):

• Types of Questions:

  • Problem Solving: Basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis questions.

  • Quantitative Comparison: You’re asked to compare two quantities and choose the appropriate answer.

  • Data Interpretation: Interpreting data presented in graphs, tables, and charts.

Tips:

• Review Basic Math: Brush up on topics like algebra, probability, and geometry. Be comfortable with data analysis and basic statistics.

• Use Estimation: In some questions, estimation can help you solve problems faster, especially when the answers are quite far apart.

• Formula Memorization: Some formulas are provided, but others (like the area of geometric shapes, etc.) should be memorized.

• Work on Speed and Accuracy: The quantitative section is timed, so practice solving problems quickly but accurately.

3. Analytical Writing (One Section, Two Tasks):

• Tasks:

  • Issue Task: You’ll be given a statement on an issue and asked to take a position, developing an argument with reasons and examples.

  • Argument Task: You’ll be given a short argument (usually with flaws or weaknesses), and you need to analyze and critique it logically, not agreeing or disagreeing with the argument itself.

Tips:

• Structure Your Essay: Use a clear structure for both essays (Introduction, Body, Conclusion).

• Practice Critical Thinking: Focus on analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of arguments in the argument task.

• Support Your Ideas: Use specific examples to support your position or analysis. The GRE tests your ability to develop logical, well-supported arguments.

• Grammar and Clarity: Since the essay is scored on both content and writing quality, avoid grammatical errors and aim for clarity in your writing.

4. Experimental (Unscored) Section:

• This section is unscored and is used to help ETS test new questions. It is either a verbal or quantitative section, and you will not know which section is experimental.

• Tip: Treat this section just like any other. Since it doesn’t count towards your score, use it to practice.

GRE Scoring:

• Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning scores are each reported on a scale from 130 to 170. The scores from these two sections are combined to give a total score ranging from 260 to 340.

• Analytical Writing is scored separately on a scale from 0 to 6.

• The experimental section is unscored, but it’s included to help ETS evaluate new questions.

GRE Preparation Tips:

1. Practice with Full-Length Tests:

   • Taking full-length practice tests is crucial to understand the timing of the exam and to build endurance.

   • Use official GRE prep materials from ETS for realistic practice tests.

2. Improve Vocabulary:

   • Regularly practice GRE vocabulary. Use flashcards (e.g., Anki or Quizlet) or apps like Magoosh to learn high-frequency words.

   • Read complex texts (e.g., academic journals, novels, or articles from The Economist or Scientific American) to familiarize yourself with challenging vocabulary.

3. Master Time Management:

   • The GRE is a timed test, so managing your time is essential. Practice pacing yourself during each section.

   • In the reading comprehension section, spend 1–2 minutes on each question to avoid getting stuck on difficult questions.

4. Strengthen Your Math Skills:

   • Review basic math concepts, especially algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and data analysis.

   • Practice solving problems without a calculator (the GRE doesn’t allow calculators except for certain questions in the quantitative section).

5. Write Practice Essays:

   • Write several practice essays for the Issue and Argument tasks. Time yourself to ensure you can complete both essays within the time limits.

   • Use the GRE Analytical Writing Rubric to review your essays and improve your writing.

6. Use Prep Books and Online Resources:

   • Official GRE Guide: The Official Guide to the GRE is an essential resource, as it contains real test questions and full-length practice exams.

   • Magoosh GRE Prep: Offers video lessons and practice questions, along with GRE study schedules.

   • Kaplan’s GRE Prep: Another comprehensive prep resource with practice tests, drills, and strategies.

7. Focus on Your Weaknesses:

   • After taking a practice test, carefully review your mistakes. Identify areas of weakness and focus your practice on those areas, whether it’s quantitative math, verbal reasoning, or writing.

GRE Practice Resources:

• Official ETS GRE Website: Offers test preparation materials and sample questions.

• Magoosh GRE Prep: A great resource for study schedules, video lessons, and practice questions.

• Khan Academy: Free math tutorials that can help improve your quantitative reasoning skills.

• GRE Prep Books: Books like The Official Guide to the GRE and Manhattan Prep GRE Strategy Guides are excellent for comprehensive prep.