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How to Pass the GRE Biology Subject Test

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(9 Ratings)

Congratulations! You've finished your bachelor's degree in biology. Now the time has come to consider your future. You could go straight to work, or you could earn your master's degree and give yourself even more options. The first step toward your master's is to pass the GRE Biology exam. With determination you can study effectively, pass the test and enroll in the program of your dreams.

From Quick Guide: Taking the GRE
Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Valid Photo ID
  • Soft lead pencils
  • Erasers

    Before Test Day

  1. Step 1

    Register early. The test contains 200 multiple choice questions. When you register, you are automatically sent review materials. Use them.

  2. Step 2

    Join a study group or review class. Ask your local college or university about special GRE Biology study sessions.

  3. Step 3

    Review cellular and molecular biology. One-third of the test will cover these areas and may include cell structure and function, genetics and immunity, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and experimental methodology.

  4. Step 4

    Study organismal biology--another third of the test will cover this topic. Plant and animal structure, physiology, behavior and development will be addressed.

  5. Step 5

    Expect the final third of the test to deal with ecology and evolution. Consider the entire spectrum of ecology, from the physiological adaptations of individual species to the functioning of entire ecosystems.

  6. Step 6

    Look at evolution theory. This will also be thoroughly discussed, with questions ranging from the genetic changes involved in evolution to its processes and its consequences.

  7. On Test Day

  8. Step 1

    Get a good night's sleep. Go to bed early the night before you take the test and try to relax.

  9. Step 2

    Eat a healthy breakfast. You won't be able to concentrate on the test if your stomach is growling. Eat before you come.

  10. Step 3

    Leave home early. Make sure you have time to deal with minor crises or traffic disruptions.

  11. Step 4

    Bring your required ID. You will not be allowed to write the GRE exam without an acceptable form of photo identification--passport, driver's license or military identification.

  12. Step 5

    Read each question carefully. Be sure you understand what the question is asking before you choose your answer.

Tips & Warnings
  • Online review classes are also available if you cannot join a regular in-person class.
  • Buy a GRE Biology exam study guide and spend several months reviewing it before your test date. Spend time reviewing your notes and texts from your college biology courses too.
  • Resist the urge to change an answer. Research shows that on multiple choice tests your first answer is usually correct.

Comments  

Tren said

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on 7/5/2008 A summary/review ebook is available for purchase from www.grebio.com/index_biology.html

You may want to take a look...

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