How To Prepare for The GRE

1. Understand the GRE Format: Familiarise yourself with the format of the GRE. Knowing the structure and types of questions in each section will help you strategise your preparation effectively.
2. Create a Study Plan: Develop a study schedule that suits your routine and allows sufficient time for each section of the GRE. Break down your preparation into manageable tasks and set realistic goals to track your progress.
3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to GRE success. Utilise official GRE practice materials and mock tests to simulate exam conditions and improve your performance over time.
4. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas through practice tests and allocate more time to improve in those areas. Targeted practice will help you address your weaknesses and enhance your overall score.
5. Master Vocabulary: Build a strong vocabulary by learning high-frequency GRE words and their usage. Use flashcards, vocabulary apps, and reading challenging texts to expand your word bank and improve comprehension skills.
6. Hone Analytical Writing Skills: Practice writing essays on various topics to improve your analytical writing skills. Focus on developing coherent arguments, providing evidence, and structuring your essays effectively within the given time constraints.
7. Manage Time Effectively: Time management is crucial during the GRE. Practice pacing yourself through timed practice tests to ensure you can complete each section within the allocated time without rushing.
8. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Develop strategies to manage exam-related stress and anxiety. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, positive visualisation, and mindfulness to stay focused and composed during the exam.
9. Review and Analyse Mistakes: After each practice session or mock test, review your answers and analyse your mistakes. Understand why you got certain questions wrong and learn from them to avoid similar errors in the future.
10. Seek Support and Guidance: Don't hesitate to seek support from GRE tutors, study groups, or online forums. Engaging with peers and experts can provide valuable insights, tips, and motivation to enhance your preparation journey.

By following these tips and staying dedicated to your GRE preparation, you can boost your confidence, improve your performance, and achieve your desired score on the exam.

Preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requires a structured approach encompassing study plans, practice tests, and focused vocabulary drills. Here's a detailed breakdown of each aspect:

Take the first step with a GRE practice test

Initial Assessment: Begin by taking a full-length GRE practice test to gauge your current level of readiness.

Identify Weak Areas: Analyse your performance across different sections – verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing – to pinpoint areas of weakness.

Understand Test Format: Familiarise yourself with the GRE test format, question types, and time constraints to build confidence and reduce test anxiety.

Determine your GRE Cut-off score

Research Program Requirements: Investigate the minimum GRE scores required by the graduate programs you're interested in.

Set Realistic Goals: Determine your target score based on program requirements and your academic strengths and weaknesses.

Track Progress: Regularly assess your progress towards your target score to adjust study strategies as needed.

Close the gap

Focused Study Plan: Develop a personalised study plan based on your initial assessment and target score.

Utilise Resources: Make use of GRE prep books, online resources, and tutoring services to address areas where you need improvement.

Practice Regularly: Dedicate consistent time each day to GRE study, focusing on strengthening weak areas while maintaining proficiency in strong areas.

Increase GRE vocabulary

Word Lists: Utilise GRE vocabulary lists containing high-frequency words and words commonly found on the test.

Flashcards: Create flashcards or use online flashcard platforms to memorise and reinforce vocabulary.

Contextual Learning: Learn new words in context by reading articles, academic papers, and GRE practice questions.

Take the GRE Mock Tests

Mock Tests: Incorporate regular GRE practice tests into your study schedule to simulate test-day conditions and track progress.

Analyse Mistakes: Review incorrect answers thoroughly to understand the reasoning behind them and learn from mistakes.

Time Management: Practice pacing yourself to complete each section within the allotted time limits.

By following these comprehensive strategies, you can effectively prepare for the GRE and increase your chances of achieving your target score.

Prepare for the GRE with online courses, which provide comprehensive preparation through interactive lessons, practice tests, and personalised feedback, ensuring you achieve optimal results. 

SCOREITNOW!™ Online Writing Practice

Official GRE® Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions Volume 1, Second Edition

Official GRE® Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions Volume 1, Second Edition

Official GRE® Value Combo

POWERPREP PLUS® Online - Practice Test 1 (Scores provided on all three measures)

POWERPREP PLUS® Online - Practice Test 2 (Scores provided on all three measures) 

POWERPREP PLUS® Online - Practice Test 3 (Scores provided on all three measures)

The Official Guide to the GRE® General Test, Third Edition

Official GRE® Mentor Course

These resources are curated to offer an effective and economical approach for students aiming to excel in the GRE examination.

Students can access the free GRE preparation materials from the official website.

POWERPREP® Online - Practice Test 1 (Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning scores provided)

POWERPREP® Online - Practice Test 2 ( (Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning scores provided)

POWERPREP® Online - Practice Test 1 (Untimed - No scores given)

Preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requires a strategic approach encompassing verbal, quantitative, and writing skills with effective time management. Here's a brief guide to mastering each aspect:

Verbal Skills:

Vocabulary: Build a strong vocabulary by regularly studying GRE word lists and using flashcards or apps like Quizlet.

Reading Comprehension: Practice reading academic texts and articles to improve comprehension and speed. Focus on identifying the main ideas, arguments, and author's tone.

Sentence Equivalence & Text Completion: Practice solving these types of questions to improve your understanding of sentence structure, context, and vocabulary usage.

Quantitative Skills:

Math Fundamentals: Review basic mathematical concepts including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.

Problem-solving Techniques: Learn various problem-solving strategies such as back-solving, estimation, and plugging in numbers to tackle different types of quantitative questions efficiently.

Practice Regularly: Utilise GRE prep books, online resources, and practice tests to reinforce concepts and improve speed and accuracy.

Writing Skills:

Understanding the Prompt: Familiarise yourself with the different types of essay prompts in the GRE Analytical Writing section - Analyse an Issue and Analyse an Argument.

Structuring Essays: Practice outlining essays with clear introductions, body paragraphs supporting your arguments, and concise conclusions.

Critical Thinking: Develop your ability to critically analyse arguments, identify logical flaws, and provide relevant examples to support your points.

Practice Tests & Review:

Simulate Test Conditions: Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to get accustomed to the test format and build stamina.

Review Mistakes: Analyse your mistakes thoroughly to understand the underlying concepts or reasoning errors. Focus on areas of weakness and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Track Progress: Keep track of your performance over time to monitor improvements and identify persistent weaknesses.

Time Management:

Create a Study Schedule: Plan regular study sessions, allocating specific time slots for each section of the GRE.

Time Yourself: Practice time management during study sessions and mock exams to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time.

Prioritize: Focus more on areas where you struggle the most but ensure you allocate sufficient time to review all sections.

By following these steps and maintaining a consistent study schedule, you can optimise your preparation for the GRE and increase your chances of achieving a competitive score.

The duration required to prepare for the GRE varies considerably depending on individual circumstances, including prior knowledge, study habits, and time availability. However, as a general guideline, most individuals find that dedicating 3 to 6 months of consistent study yields optimal results.

During this time frame, candidates can effectively cover all sections of the GRE – verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing – ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the exam content and format. This period allows for a thorough review of key concepts, ample practice with sample questions, and refinement of test-taking strategies.

Those with a strong academic background or prior experience with GRE-style questions may require a shorter preparation period, while others may need longer to build foundational skills and confidence. Additionally, factors such as work or academic commitments, family responsibilities, and personal obligations can influence the amount of time available for study each week.

Candidates should create a realistic study schedule that balances their other commitments while providing sufficient time for focused GRE preparation. Consistency is key – regular study sessions spread over several months are more effective than cramming in a shorter period.

Ultimately, the optimal duration for GRE preparation varies from person to person, but aiming for a 3 to 6-month timeframe with consistent effort is a good starting point for achieving success in the exam.

Studying for the GRE within a month requires a strategic approach that maximises your time and resources. Here's a structured study plan focusing on vocabulary, practice tests, and essays, with the flexibility to adjust based on your progress:

Week 1: Vocabulary Building

Start by learning high-frequency GRE words. Utilise flashcards, vocabulary apps, or GRE word lists.

Group words into categories (synonyms, antonyms, context sentences) to aid retention.

Review and reinforce learned vocabulary through quizzes or exercises.

Week 2: Practice Tests

Take a diagnostic practice test to identify strengths and weaknesses.

Dedicate time to improving weaker areas identified in the diagnostic test. Use official GRE practice materials or reputable prep books.

Week 3: Intensive Practice

Focus on quantitative reasoning. Review formulas, concepts, and problem-solving strategies.

Dive into verbal reasoning. Practice comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence questions.

Take a full-length practice test to assess progress and simulate test conditions.

Week 4: Refinement and Essay Preparation

Analyse mistakes from practice tests and reinforce concepts where needed.

Practice writing timed essays. Familiarise yourself with the GRE essay prompts and structure.

Final review of key concepts and vocabulary. Focus on areas of weakness.

Avoid cramming or intensive study sessions.

Throughout the Month:

Daily: Allocate time for consistent study sessions, focusing on different aspects of the exam.

Adaptability: Adjust study plans based on progress. Allocate more time to weak areas and less to stronger ones.

Simulated Tests: Regularly take full-length practice tests to build endurance and familiarity with the exam format.

Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure proper rest, nutrition, and exercise to maintain focus and productivity.

Remember, while it's essential to study diligently, it's equally important to stay calm and confident during the exam.

Books:

"The Official Guide to the GRE General Test" by Educational Testing Service (ETS)

"GRE Prep Plus 2024" by Kaplan Test Prep

"Cracking the GRE Premium Edition 2024" by The Princeton Review

"Barron's New GRE" by Sharon Weiner Green and Ira K. Wolf

Online Resources:

ETS Official GRE Website: Offers free resources, including sample questions, test-taking strategies, and a breakdown of the test format.

Khan Academy: Provides free GRE preparation materials covering all the sections.

Magoosh GRE Prep: Offers a comprehensive online course with video lessons, practice questions, and study schedules.

Manhattan Prep GRE Blog: Provides valuable tips, strategies, and practice questions.

Practice Tests:

PowerPrep Practice Tests (ETS): Includes two free full-length GRE practice tests available on the official ETS website.

Kaplan GRE Practice Tests: Offers multiple full-length practice tests with detailed explanations.

Manhattan Prep GRE Practice Tests: Provides access to realistic practice tests that mimic the actual GRE.

Official Guides:

The Official Guide to the GRE General Test (ETS): Contains real GRE questions, explanations, and test-taking strategies.

Official GRE Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions (ETS): Focus on the verbal reasoning section with authentic practice questions.

Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions (ETS): Focuses specifically on the quantitative reasoning section with authentic practice questions.

Third-Party Study Materials:

GRE Flashcards: Available from various publishers such as Kaplan, Barron's, and Princeton Review, offering a convenient way to review vocabulary and concepts.

GRE Prep Apps: Apps like Magoosh GRE Prep, Manhattan Prep GRE, and Kaplan GRE Prep offer mobile-friendly study materials, including flashcards, practice questions, and quizzes.

GRE Prep Courses: Various companies offer comprehensive GRE prep courses, both online and in-person, with structured lessons, personalised study plans, and expert instruction.

Make sure to utilise a combination of these resources to create a well-rounded study plan that addresses your specific strengths and weaknesses. 

GRE Preparation Online

Preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requires a comprehensive approach encompassing study materials, practice tests, verbal and quantitative drills, essay prompts, time management strategies, and stress relief techniques. Here's a breakdown:

Study Materials:

Official GRE Materials: Utilise official study materials provided by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), including the Official Guide to the GRE General Test and the GRE Prep Plus book.

Online Resources: Explore reputable online platforms offering GRE study materials, such as Khan Academy, Magoosh, and Manhattan Prep.

Textbooks: Refer to acclaimed textbooks in mathematics, vocabulary, and grammar to reinforce foundational knowledge.

Flashcards: Create or use flashcards to memorize vocabulary words and mathematical formulas.

Practice Tests:

Official Practice Tests: Take official GRE practice tests to familiarise yourself with the test format and assess your strengths and weaknesses.

Online Practice Tests: Utilise online platforms offering GRE practice tests with detailed score reports and explanations for answers.

Timed Practice Sessions: Mimic real test conditions by taking practice tests under timed conditions to improve speed and efficiency.

Verbal & Quantitative Drills:

Daily Practice: Allocate time each day for verbal and quantitative drills to enhance skills in reading comprehension, vocabulary, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.

Focus on Weak Areas: Identify weak areas through practice tests and concentrate on improving those specific skills.

Review Mistakes: Analyze mistakes made during drills to understand concepts better and avoid similar errors in the future.

Essay Prompts:

Analytical Writing Practice: Practice writing essays on various analytical writing prompts to develop coherent arguments and improve writing proficiency.

Feedback: Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay-writing skills and address areas for improvement.

Time Management Tips:

Create a Study Schedule: Develop a structured study schedule allocating time for each section of the GRE, including practice tests, drills, and review sessions.

Prioritise Tasks: Prioritise tasks based on your proficiency level and the weightage of each section in the GRE.

Break Down Study Sessions: Divide study sessions into manageable chunks with short breaks to maintain focus and avoid burnout.

Practice Time Management: Practice pacing yourself during practice tests to ensure you complete each section within the allotted time.

Stress Relief Techniques:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation techniques to reduce anxiety and improve focus during study sessions and exams.

Physical Exercise: Engage in regular physical exercise to relieve stress, improve cognitive function, and boost overall well-being.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and ensure an adequate amount of sleep to support cognitive function and reduce stress.

Hobbies and Relaxation: Engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy to unwind and recharge outside of GRE preparation.

By integrating these study materials, practice tests, drills, essay prompts, time management strategies, and stress relief techniques into your GRE preparation routine, you can enhance your chances of achieving success on test day.

How to Prepare for GRE Analytical Writing?

The GRE Analytical Writing section aims to evaluate critical thinking and analytical writing skills, emphasising clear expression of complex ideas and maintaining coherent discussions. It's crucial to recognise that the test doesn't assess content knowledge, meaning there are no right or wrong answers based on opinions.

Acknowledge that AWA tasks are selected from a pool of topics available on the ETS website. However, it's impractical to practice responses for all topics. Instead, focus on writing responses during full-length practice tests and ensure they are scored and reviewed.

Refer to the Official Guide for each AWA task. There are six instructions for the issue task and eight for the argument task. Adhere to these instructions while addressing both the issue and the argument.

Practice writing AWA responses during practice tests consistently.

Familiarise yourself with a template for AWA responses. This will facilitate smoother navigation through the AWA section, leaving you with ample energy and enthusiasm for the subsequent verbal and quant sections.

Remember, in the argument task, avoid commenting on the truthfulness of statements or expressing personal views. Evaluate the argument's soundness according to the provided instructions.

GRE Verbal Reasoning Section Preparation

The Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE can be challenging due to the extensive vocabulary and comprehension requirements. This section aims to assess your comprehension of written material and your ability to evaluate it, along with analysing sentence structures and understanding word-concept relationships.

Recognise the significance of vocabulary in the Verbal section, ensuring familiarity with GRE-appropriate words. Continuously expand your vocabulary until the GRE, including secondary word meanings.

Employ diverse techniques for learning vocabulary, such as maintaining a vocab journal, using flashcards, studying etymology and mnemonics, playing vocab games, and utilising online apps and tools.

Besides learning words, understand how to approach Sentence Equivalence and Text Completion questions. Techniques for solving these questions are essential alongside vocabulary acquisition.

Avoid plugging in answer choices for Sentence Equivalence and Text Completion questions. Focus on clues and triggers to generate your word or phrase, employing the process of elimination.

Note that credited responses in Sentence Equivalence questions need not necessarily be synonyms.

GRE Quantitative Section Preparation

The Quantitative Reasoning section evaluates fundamental mathematical skills, understanding of elementary mathematical concepts, and problem-solving abilities using quantitative methods.

Ensure a strong grasp of math fundamentals, as they form the basis for solving various GRE math questions.

Prioritise topics extensively tested on the GRE, such as number systems, averages, percentages, and ratios, over topics with fewer questions, like permutation-combination and probability.

Refer to the Official Guide for a comprehensive list of math topics tested on the GRE and master each topic thoroughly.

Be aware that while GRE questions don't delve into esoteric math concepts, they can be tricky. Learn to identify and avoid trap answers.

Utilise the provided calculator, but remember it offers basic mathematical operations and can be challenging to use. Practice using it from the beginning, but assess whether it's necessary for each question.

Preparing for the GRE through self-study offers many resources and study plans to assist you along the way. Among these, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) provides comprehensive materials to aid in your preparation.

The Official Guide to the GRE revised General Test, Third Edition, available in print and eBook formats, offers invaluable resources including two full-length practice tests, numerous authentic GRE questions, detailed answer explanations, effective test-taking strategies, and sample essay responses with expert commentary.

Complementing this, the Official GRE Guide app grants access to authentic test questions with thorough explanations alongside indispensable test-taking tips and strategies. It is an interactive and accurate GRE preparation tool, enhancing your readiness in an electronic format.

For targeted practice, the Official GRE Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions, Volume One Second Edition, furnishes a comprehensive overview of the GRE Analytical Writing measure coupled with sample writing tasks and scored responses to refine your verbal reasoning skills.

Similarly, the Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions, Volume One Second Edition, presents 150 newly devised Quantitative Reasoning questions with detailed explanations alongside a comprehensive review of essential mathematical concepts relevant to the GRE.

Moreover, the ScoreItNow! Online Writing Practice Service for the GRE revised General Test is a valuable web-based resource, facilitating honing analytical writing abilities and fostering readiness for the Analytical Writing section of the GRE.

Additionally, Manhattan Prep offers a set of eight meticulously crafted test-taking strategy guides, each focusing on a specific content area, including Algebra, Fractions, Decimals & percentages, Geometry, Number Properties, and Word Problems. These guides provide in-depth insights and strategies to bolster your proficiency in each subject area, thus augmenting your overall GRE preparedness.

Preparing for the GRE Subject Test requires focused study, a comprehensive understanding of the subject material, rigorous practice, and a strategic review of key concepts. This guide aims to provide you with a structured approach to your preparation, ensuring you are thoroughly equipped to excel in your examination.

Understanding the Test:

Familiarise yourself with the format, structure, and content of the GRE Subject Test specific to your chosen subject.

Review sample questions and past papers to gain insight into the types of questions asked and the level of difficulty.

Study Material Selection:

Choose reliable study materials such as textbooks, study guides, and online resources tailored to the GRE Subject Test syllabus.

Ensure the materials cover all the key topics and concepts outlined in the test specifications.

Focused Study:

Allocate dedicated study time for each topic, focusing on areas where you need the most improvement.

Take thorough notes and create summaries for quick revision.

Practice Tests:

Regularly undertake timed practice tests to simulate exam conditions and improve time management skills.

Analyse your performance, identify weak areas, and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Review of Key Concepts:

Prioritise revising fundamental concepts and theories within your subject area.

Utilise flashcards, mnemonic devices, and other memory aids to reinforce your understanding.

Seek Additional Resources:

Attend review classes, join study groups, or seek guidance from subject matter experts to clarify doubts and enhance your learning experience.

Explore online forums and discussion groups to exchange study tips and strategies with fellow test-takers.

Maintain a Healthy Schedule:

Establish a structured study schedule that balances study sessions with regular breaks and adequate rest.

Incorporate healthy habits such as exercise and proper nutrition to support cognitive function and overall well-being.

Final Review:

Conduct a comprehensive review of all study materials and notes in the days leading up to the exam.

Focus on reinforcing key concepts and addressing any lingering areas of uncertainty.

Exam Day Preparation:

Familiarise yourself with the test centre location and logistics to avoid any last-minute stress.

Get ample rest the night before the exam and ensure you arrive well-prepared with all necessary documents.

By following a systematic approach to your GRE Subject Test preparation, including focused study, regular practice, and strategic review, you can maximise your chances of achieving success. Stay disciplined, maintain confidence in your abilities, and approach the exam with a calm and positive mindset.

Manage time effectively: Allocate time for each section of the exam and stick to it. Don't get stuck on difficult questions; move on and return to them if you have time at the end.

Stay calm: Keep a calm and composed mindset throughout the exam. Deep breathing techniques can help alleviate any stress or anxiety.

Review answers: Double-check your answers if time permits. Look for any careless errors or misinterpretations.

Prioritise questions strategically: Start with questions you find easier to tackle and gradually move on to more challenging ones. This helps build momentum and confidence as you progress through the exam.

Trust your preparation: Have confidence in the preparation you've done leading up to the exam. Trust in your abilities and approach each question with a clear and focused mind.

Remember, staying focused, managing time effectively, and maintaining confidence is key to performing well on the GRE

To conclude, embarking on your GRE preparation journey can be a daunting task, but with the right mindset and resources, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. Throughout your preparation, remember to stay organised, set achievable goals, and stay consistent in your studies. Utilise a variety of study materials, including practice tests, study guides, and online resources, to ensure comprehensive coverage of the GRE content.

Approach your preparation with confidence, knowing that your hard work and dedication will pay off in the end. Keep in mind that the GRE is a test of your skills and abilities, not just your knowledge, so focus on understanding the underlying concepts and honing your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

As you embark on this journey, remember that everyone's GRE experience is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to success. Trust in your abilities, stay focused on your goals and believe in yourself. With determination, perseverance, and a positive attitude, you can conquer the GRE and open doors to exciting opportunities in your academic and professional pursuits.