The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test required for admission to many graduate schools worldwide. It assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. Preparing for the GRE requires a systematic approach, focus, and the right resources. In this blog, we’ll provide you with a detailed strategy to ace the GRE based on insights from successful test-takers.
Step 1: Define Your Target Score
Before diving into the preparation, it’s crucial to understand the specific score requirements of the programs and universities you’re aiming for.
Research Programs: Start by identifying the programs you wish to apply to and find out the average GRE scores for admitted students, specifically in both the Verbal and Quantitative sections.
Set a Target Score: Based on the programs' requirements, set a realistic target score for each section. For example, some engineering programs may require higher Quant scores, while humanities programs might prioritize Verbal scores.
Step 2: Understand the GRE Structure
The GRE is divided into the following sections:
- Verbal Reasoning (20 questions, 30 minutes per section)
- Quantitative Reasoning (20 questions, 35 minutes per section)
- Analytical Writing (2 essays, 30 minutes each)
Familiarize yourself with the types of questions in each section. For example, the Verbal section includes Reading Comprehension (RC), Sentence Equivalence (SE), and Fill in the Blanks (FIB), while the Quant section focuses on high school math concepts like Algebra, Geometry, and Data Analysis.
Step 3: Quantitative Reasoning Preparation
For many, the Quant section can be a challenging area. However, with proper practice and resources, it’s quite manageable.
Recommended Resource:
- Manhattan 5 lb GRE Prep Book: This book is widely recommended for Quant preparation. It covers all the major concepts, from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra and geometry, and includes thousands of practice questions.
Strategy:
Concept Mastery: Learn all the key concepts in the book thoroughly. For each topic (e.g., percentages, probability, etc.), solve at least 100 practice questions. This will give you enough exposure to understand various question types.
Mistake Tracking: Whenever you get a question wrong, spend 2-3 minutes figuring out what went wrong. Keep a mistake journal where you note down common errors or tricky questions, and revisit these regularly to avoid making the same mistakes.
Mock Tests: After mastering the basics, start practicing with full-length Quantitative sections to simulate the actual exam environment.
Step 4: Verbal Reasoning Preparation
The Verbal section is divided into three main question types: Reading Comprehension (RC), Sentence Equivalence (SE), and Fill in the Blanks (FIB). Mastery of vocabulary is essential for SE and FIB, while RC questions test your ability to critically analyze texts.
Vocabulary:
Magoosh GRE Vocabulary Flashcards: This app is a great resource for building your vocabulary. While you don’t need to master all the words, focusing on the easy and medium levels will give you a strong foundation.
Daily Revision: Create a separate notebook to write down new words you encounter and review this list daily. By revisiting this notebook every day, you’ll gradually improve your vocabulary retention.
Strategy for Verbal:
RC Questions: Reading Comprehension requires strong reading skills. Practice reading complex texts from newspapers, journals, or GRE materials. When solving RC questions, focus on understanding the main argument and details in the passage. If you encounter a critical word you don’t understand, consider skipping the question as guessing might hurt your score.
Sentence Equivalence and Fill in the Blanks: For these question types, it’s vital to understand the nuances of the sentence and use vocabulary effectively. If you don’t understand a key word in the sentence, it’s better to skip the question, as your chances of getting it wrong are higher.
Time Management: Verbal questions can be time-consuming. Develop a strategy where you allocate specific time for RC, FIB, and SE. For instance, spend more time on questions you are more confident about and skip tougher ones to save time.
Step 5: Analytical Writing (AWA) Preparation
The Analytical Writing section includes two essays: an Issue essay and an Argument essay. Both essays test your ability to express ideas clearly and provide strong reasoning.
Strategy:
Understand the Essay Format: ETS provides a pool of possible topics for both the Issue and Argument essays. Familiarize yourself with the types of prompts you may encounter and practice writing essays based on these prompts.
Time Your Essays: Write practice essays within the 30-minute time limit. This will help you get used to organizing your thoughts quickly and articulating your arguments under pressure.
Review Feedback: If possible, have someone review your essays (or use an online service). Feedback is crucial to improve structure, clarity, and logic in your essays.
Step 6: Practice Tests
Taking practice exams at regular intervals is critical to tracking your progress and identifying areas where you need improvement.
Recommended Test Series:
Magoosh, Manhattan, or Kaplan: These test series offer a comprehensive analysis of your performance, highlighting both your strengths and weaknesses.
ETS PowerPrep: ETS (the creators of the GRE) offer two free practice tests. These tests are invaluable because they simulate the real exam experience.
Mock Test Strategy:
Start Early: Take your first practice test after two weeks of preparation to get a baseline score.
Analyze Results: After each practice test, analyze where you lost points. Focus on weak areas in your next study sessions.
Target Weaknesses: If you consistently struggle with a particular type of question (e.g., RC or geometry), allocate extra time to strengthen those areas.
Simulate Exam Conditions: Take the practice exams in a quiet place, simulating real exam conditions as closely as possible. Practice finishing sections within the time limits, and avoid taking unnecessary breaks.
Step 7: Test Day Preparation
In the final weeks leading up to the exam, focus on reviewing your notes, taking full-length tests, and staying calm.
Revise Mistakes: Go through your mistake journal for Quant and Verbal. Revisiting common errors will reinforce your learning.
Practice Essays: Write a few timed essays to get comfortable with the structure and pacing.
Stay Calm: The GRE is a long test, so mental endurance is crucial. Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques if you feel anxious.
Final Tips:
Maintain Consistency: GRE preparation requires sustained effort over several months. Aim to study for 2-3 hours daily with more intensive sessions on weekends.
Stay Positive: Test preparation can be stressful, but maintaining a positive attitude will keep you motivated.
Don’t Give Up: There will be challenging moments, but persistence is key to success. Keep refining your strategies and adapting to improve your performance.
Conclusion
Preparing for the GRE is a marathon, not a sprint. With a strategic approach, the right resources like Magoosh, Manhattan Prep, and consistent practice, you can achieve your target score. Remember to balance your preparation between Quant, Verbal, and Analytical Writing, and take practice tests regularly to track your progress.
All the best for your GRE exam! Stay focused, and don’t forget to take breaks to keep your mind sharp.