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GRE Study GuideThere are three sections to the GRE and three corresponding scores. Familiarize yourself with the verbal, math and analytical sections. The verbal section includes sentence completion, analogies, antonyms and reading comprehension. The math section includes standard multiple choice and quantitative comparisions. The third section is the analytical section. It is not subdivided. You will receive specific times as you begin testing.
Typical computer-based GRE content and times are:
Analytical writing, one issue task: 45 minutes
Analytical writing, one argument task: 30 minutes
Verbal, 30 questions, 30 minutes
Quantitative, 28 questions: 45 minutes
A typical paper-based GRE includes:
Analytical writing, one issue task: 45 minutes
Analytical writing, one argument task: 30 minutes
Verbal (two sections), 38 questions per section: 30 minutes per section
Quantitative (two sections), 30 questions per section: 30 minutes per section -
TestingETS provides free general and subject-specific preparation materials. ETS recommends downloading free GRE Powerprep Software, which includes two computer-based GRE general tests, sample analytical writing topics, scored sample essays and reader commentary, test-taking strategies, a math review, and tutorials. If you do not have Internet access, ETS will mail a copy of the prep materials.
Gather all necessary GRE prep materials at least six months in advance of the test date. Prepare to study at least three hours (one hour for each GRE section) every week. Allot additional time to review high school and college academic materials. Do not cram. -
Online Test PrepTake the GRE practice tests. Familiarize yourself with test instructions. Practice tests instructions give specific times for each section; use these to learn to budget your time. Begin, as the actual exam will, with the analytical section. Verbal and quantitative sections may appear in any order. You must be able to present and support complex ideas in the analytical section. Prepare for critical reasoning and analysis of arguments. Study antonyms, analogies, sentence completions and reading comprehension skills for the general verbal sections. Prepare for the quantitative section by reviewing basic mathematical skills, elementary mathematical concepts and your ability to reason and solve problems quantitatively. Allow enough time to pass between practice tests to study and absorb new information. -
GRE ScoresCalifornia Polytechnic State University Academic Skills Center suggests making your own questions, planning study time and using flash cards as memory pegs.
Review undergraduate course materials.
Focus your study on areas in which practice test scores show weaknesses.
Consider forming or joining a GRE study group, which allows you to experience information in different ways (i.e., speaking, writing, teaching and learning).
When you study alone or take a practice test, begin with stress-reduction exercises, such as breathing and relaxation techniques. For example, sit upright in a chair with feet on the floor. With closed eyes, slowly inhale through your nose. Pause and slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat three to five times. Allow your breath to ease. Rest with calming breath. Not only does this exercise relax your mind, it provides more oxygen to your brain. An oxygenated brain absorbs information more effectively and efficiently.
Approach study materials from each section regularly and from different angles. Teach or pass on what you've been studying to others. Act as if you are a math teacher, for example. A fresh approach opens learning channels in your brain.
Rather than rote memorization, look at material as solutions to problems. Identify the problems then look at the solutions to make valuable connections.
Do not solely rely on tips to succeed at the GRE. Learn content for each section beyond study guide information. -
Test TakingThe computer-based GRE generates each question based upon the test-taker's ability to answer the preceding question. So success in the early sections raises GRE final scores. Carefully read instructions and questions. Try to maintain a steady pace during the exam. Lingering on any question is a time-killer. If necessary, apply the process of elimination to get to correct answers.
Calculators are not allowed. Bring two forms of identification to the exam.
