GRE Study Tools
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Scores from the GRE General Test are part of the application process for many graduate-level college programs and business schools. Before you begin studying, take a practice exam to evaluate the subjects in which you need improvement. Improve your scores by becoming familiar with the exam and studying subject material found on the exam.
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Study Guides
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Prepare for the GRE with a study guide that explains the exam material and testing format in detail. Learn test-taking strategies, test directions and scoring information about the exam. Find sample test questions, scored essays and material reviews in study guides. Study guides are also available that focus on particular areas, including math and verbal material.
Review math with a study guide that focuses on math concepts and principles tested on the GRE. Verbal preparation involves reviewing sample questions, literary terms and vocabulary usage. Prepare for the vocabulary on the exam through GRE vocabulary guides and GRE flash card sets featuring words found most often on the GRE. Three companies -- ETS, Kaplan and the Princeton Review -- provide study guides.
Mock Exams
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Taking mock exams is most helpful when you approach it as a real exam. Pretend you are actually in the testing center, without a calculator, notes, music or food. Give yourself only the amount of time you will have for each section of the exam, and take the exam at the same time of day as you will take the real exam. Find a practice exam for free online (see Resources) or buy a mock test through exam preparation companies. Some GRE study guides include a CD that provides a computerized mock exam, so you can practice using the same computer screen that you will use on test day.
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Preparation Courses
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If you have taken the GRE and want to improve your exam scores or need motivation to prepare, consider a preparation course led by an instructor. Decide whether you prefer to meet with an instructor privately or in a group, or would like to learn from your computer. Private tutoring and small group instruction is available for in-person and online preparation courses. Colleges often list GRE preparation courses in their course listings. Kaplan and the Princeton Review offer in-person and online preparation courses through their websites (see Resources).
Other Study Tools
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After you sign up for the test, ETS will send you a free Powerprep CD that includes two computerized mock exams. The CD also lists test-taking strategies, questions with explanations from past tests, scoring information, sample analytical writing topics and scored essays.
Keep up with current events from unbiased, respected news media, such as "The New York Times" and "The Wall Street Journal." Study scholarly journals, preferably in subjects outside of your main interest, to expand your knowledge base. Read well-written novels, such as those provided in literature or English courses, to strengthen your vocabulary skills.
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References
Resources
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