How to Prepare for the GRE Reading Comprehension Questions

The reading comprehension questions on the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) test your ability to understand the content and style of reading passages. Reading comprehension questions are the most time intensive question in the GRE verbal section. Your readings throughout college have already helped prepare you for the reading comprehension question type.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Practice tests
• Scratch paper
• Scholarly journals and other complex reading materials
• GRE study guide

1. Read extensively. This is the best way to prepare for the GRE reading comprehension questions. The GRE usually uses passages from scholarly journals and university presses.

2. Look over the entire GRE reading comprehension passage first. Do not skip ahead to the questions before reading the passage. Reading the questions first will reduce your ability to focus on the passage.

3. Make notes on scratch paper as you read a passage. Jot down notes about the writing style, any author bias and intended audience.

4. Write down the first three words of sentences that contain main points. This will give you reference points within the passage for the questions that will follow.

5. Refer back to the passage for confirmation when choosing an answer. Do not rely on your memory.

6. Get in some practice. GRE practice tests and sample questions will present you with samples of the reading comprehension question type.

Tips & Warnings

• Make use of GRE study guides. GRE study guides have practice tests and reading comprehension sample questions. Tips for handling the tricky questions are also included.
• Do not worry too much about the time. Take the time you need to read the passage. If a particular question is taking too much time, give it a guess and move on. You are not penalized for incorrect answers on the GRE.

[helenrobinson]

on 11/4/2008 Take as many practice tests as you can. It will help you know your weak points and also a help in terms of time management. Free online tests are available on www.examville.com with answers and your score. It has been a great help to me.