A few years back, when I was preparing for my GRE (Graduate Record Examinations), there were only a few online resources and almost no one to guide me through the process. However, you do not have to worry about your preparation like I did. In this article, I have listed important tips and strategies for GRE preparation that will help you master the exam.
Read on to pave your way toward building a robust GRE study plan and ace your admissions to your preferred study abroad institution.
If you want to know more about how to start preparing for the GRE Exam, here are some essential pointers that you should keep in mind:
Preparing for the Analytical Writing Section:
It is a given that the analytical writing portion of the test assesses your critical writing and thinking capabilities. It analyzes your abilities to express complex concepts in a highly effective and clear manner. Several students often miss out on the fact that this examination is not a test of their knowledge of content.
You should remember that the AWA will be chosen from the task pool published by ETS (www.ets.org/gre/awtopics). Get your essays reviewed and scored while writing responses during full-length practice examinations.
Learn about all the instructions from the Official Guide. There are instructions 6 and 8 that are linked to the issue and argument tasks respectively. These determine how you address them. Create a mental template for writing responses as well.
In the argument task, you are not required to discuss or comment regarding the truth or falsity of the statements given. You should not be stating your agreement/disagreement in this case. You only have to analyze the soundness of the given argument based on specific instructions.
Preparing for the GRE Verbal Reasoning Section:
The Verbal Reasoning section of the examination is often perceived as tough owing to the vocabulary quotient. The aim here is to analyze your capabilities to comprehend and evaluate the material. Your skills in sentence structure and understanding of concepts and words are also tested here.
Keep learning and practicing words along with understanding their meanings. Do not have only a single-word retention technique. Create and maintain your own vocabulary register or journal.
You can also use flashcards, mnemonics, or other games for assistance. You should also practice answering questions for Sentence Equivalence and Text Completion. Emphasize using your own phrases or words for these questions instead of plugging in answer options.
Preparing for the GRE Quantitative Section:
Those wondering how to start preparing for the GRE should greatly emphasize this section, which tests mathematical abilities, understanding concepts, reasoning, and problem-solving. Pay attention to fundamental mathematics concepts and focus more on extensively tested topics instead of those likely to spawn a lesser number of questions.
Emphasize on topics like percentages, averages, ratios and proportions, the number system, and so on.
Take reference from the official guide and remember that the calculator provided will only have basic functions like multiplication/subtraction/addition/division. Start using the drop-down calculator right from the outset for practice.
Read Non-Fiction and Analytical Content:
Aspirants often get advice and recommendations regarding reading non-fiction and analytical texts or other similar content. Try to cover such materials whenever you have any time to spare.
Experts feel that those scoring well in the verbal section are mostly people from liberal arts or philosophy backgrounds, possessing a thorough understanding of several types of academic content and narratives as part of their coursework for undergraduate degrees.
Reading more about topics that are not directly linked to your core subjects will ultimately reward you. Reading and becoming familiar with different types of content will always help.
Build a Regular Study Blueprint:
There is no one-size-fits-all formula for the time required to study and achieve great GRE scores. However, according to experts, students need at least three months of extensive preparation. If you can devote some more time, five months would be ideal as well.
The key here is to create a properly structured plan of action. If you are already a voracious reader and have scored well in Mathematics in school, you may not require as much preparation time as those with slightly lower aptitude in these fields.
However, overconfidence is never advisable since the GRE is a tough examination which requires thorough preparation. Create a practical study schedule for each day with suitable time allocated for each section in the GRE.
Take as Many Practice Tests as Possible:
You should know that stress is one of the biggest hurdles to scoring well on the GRE. You should be prepared amply in terms of building your knowledge and mental abilities over a few months.
Opting for practice tests will help you overcome stress and build your confidence while learning to pace yourself during the test. It will give you several valuable reference indicators while also building overall endurance.
Practicing the entire GRE will help you get a real feel of what it takes to physically and mentally clear the examination successfully. Ensure that practice tests are taken in environments that are similar to actual GRE testing conditions.
Understand Weaknesses:
The most challenging areas for you in the GRE are mostly subjects or portions you do not like. If you are good at Mathematics and do not like writing on abstract concepts, you will find it tough to ace the GRE. On the contrary, those good at reading and writing and poor at Mathematics will naturally experience the same fate.
Understand your own weaknesses first and how you can strategically eliminate them over a sustained period. Make sure you do this while considering your strengths as well. Do everything required to structure your study blueprint carefully to target your weaknesses effectively.
Things will become less challenging once you make progress in some of these areas. When it comes to things that you are comfortable with, select study resources that will build upon your knowledge instead of offering exercises that you find simple enough. You should strive to eliminate your weak points gradually while sharpening your strengths.
Track Your Own Progress Carefully:
In several interviews or tests, potential employers or admissions committees usually require proof of contributions of applicants towards initiatives and projects. They always appreciate proof of achievements that have been numerically or statistically compiled, i.e., growth in revenues by 10% or even cutting costs by 40%, for instance.
Preparation for the GRE will also improve if you have clear-cut performance benchmarks mapped out. Track your progress since it will give you an insight into improvements in your own score and objectively analyze how well your study strategies are working.
Your enhancement metrics should be based on criteria that remain consistent and progress should be tracked on a daily or weekly basis. Regular self-evaluation is vital to highlight your improvements for all types of sections and questions in the GRE. You can also nip potential issues in the bud with this approach.
Trust Your Instincts More:
Keep trusting your instincts, which will be useful in various scenarios. Suppose you find several multiple-choice questions but cannot decide between two possible answers. The process of elimination has already taken you from analyzing the question to mapping mental information, analyzing options, and narrowing them down to two final ones. In such a situation, relying on your instinct is the best way to get through the conundrum.
In fact, experts feel that if you have sincerely prepared for the GRE and practiced all types of questions, then your instinct may help you make more rational decisions. What matters is preparing well in advance and implementing your strategies suitably for the GRE.
Preparing for the GRE requires a strategic approach to ensure you perform best on test day. From initial preparation stages to post-exam considerations, this section will cover everything.
Before Exam
Know the Test: Understand what to expect from each test section, including Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
Establish a Target GRE Score: Decide your target score regarding the requirements you must meet for admission into different programs.
Set up for Study Time: Establish a schedule that allocates time to maximize your expertise in every test section. Set study time aside to review concepts, work through questions, and complete full-length practice tests.
Prep for the Exam: Opt for either official GRE prep books, online resources, or practice tests. Try flashcards for building vocab.
Practice Tests: Time yourself and take practice exams. Review your results to find areas you are strong in and those you need to work on.
Revise and Retake: Revise the topics you have completed, and concentrate on your weaker areas.
Test Day Exam Tips
Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Ensure you are well-rested by getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep the night before the exam.
Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to account for any unexpected delays.
Bring Necessary Documents: Have your identification and other required documents ready to avoid any last-minute stress.
Stay Calm and Focused: Stay calm during the exam. If you encounter a difficult question, move on and return to it later if time allows.
Manage Your Time: Keep an eye on the clock and pace yourself to ensure you have adequate time to complete all sections.
After the GRE Exam
Review Your Scores: Once your unofficial scores are available, assess how they align with your target scores and the requirements of your desired programs.
Send Your Scores: Utilize the option to send your scores to up to four institutions for free on test day. You can send additional score reports later if needed.
Reflect on Your Performance: Consider what strategies worked well and what could be improved for future standardized tests or academic challenges.
Plan Your Next Steps: Based on your scores, decide whether you need to retake the GRE. If you are satisfied with your results, focus on other parts of your application, such as essays and recommendation letters.
When to Start Preparing for GRE
The ideal time to start preparing for the GRE varies depending on your schedule and goals. However, a general recommendation is to begin studying at least three to six months before your intended test date. This time frame allows you to thoroughly review all test sections, take multiple practice tests, and address any weak areas.
Creating GRE Study Plan
Assess Your Starting Point: Take a practice test to understand your current level and identify areas that need the most attention.
Set Realistic Goals: Determine what score you need and set incremental goals to track your progress.
Divide Your Study Time: Allocate specific times each week for studying, ensuring a balance between Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
Incorporate Different Study Methods: Use a mix of reading, practice questions, and timed tests to keep your study sessions varied and engaging.
Monitor Your Progress: Regularly review your practice test results and adjust your study plan accordingly to focus on improving weak areas.
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The best way to prepare for the GRE is by creating a structured study plan, using official GRE preparation materials, taking regular practice tests, and focusing on your strengths and weaknesses.
How can I prepare for the GRE at home?
You can prepare for the GRE at home by:
Setting up a dedicated study space
Following a strict study schedule
Using online resources and practice tests
Joining online study groups or forums for support
How long does it take to prepare for the GRE exam?
It takes about three to six months of consistent study to prepare effectively for the GRE. This can vary based on individual starting points and study habits.
How to study for the GRE in one month?
Studying for the GRE in one month requires a highly focused and intensive approach:
Dedicate several hours each day to studying
Use a condensed study guide
Take frequent practice tests
Focus on high-yield topics and strategies
How long will it take to prepare for the GRE?
The preparation time for the GRE depends on your current knowledge and target score. Generally, three to six months of preparation is recommended.
Can I study for the GRE on my own?
Yes, you can study for the GRE on your own by using official study materials & online resources and creating a disciplined study schedule. Many students successfully prepare for the GRE independently by utilizing these resources and maintaining a consistent study routine.
Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience.
She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.
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