Conquer the GRE: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparation
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test required for admission to many graduate programs worldwide. Acing the GRE can significantly boost your application, opening doors to your dream program. This guide will provide you with a structured approach to GRE preparation, covering everything from understanding the exam format to mastering effective study strategies.
Understanding the GRE Exam Format
The GRE is computer-delivered and consists of three main sections:
- Verbal Reasoning: Assesses your ability to analyze and evaluate written material, understand relationships between words, and synthesize information. This section includes Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence questions.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Tests your mathematical reasoning skills, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Expect problem-solving and quantitative comparison questions.
- Analytical Writing: Measures your critical thinking and analytical writing abilities. This section involves two essays: "Analyze an Issue" and "Analyze an Argument".
There's also an unscored experimental section (either Verbal or Quantitative), and an optional Research section. You won't know which section is experimental.
GRE Scoring
Each section (Verbal and Quantitative) is scored on a scale of 130-170, in one-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 0-6, in half-point increments, by both a computer algorithm and a human rater.
Section-Specific Strategies
Verbal Reasoning
Strategies:
- Vocabulary Building: Expand your vocabulary through flashcards, reading widely, and using vocabulary-building apps.
- Reading Comprehension Practice: Improve your reading speed and comprehension by practicing with diverse texts and focusing on identifying main ideas, supporting details, and author's tone.
- Mastering Question Types: Familiarize yourself with each question type (Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence) and develop efficient strategies for tackling them.
Quantitative Reasoning
Strategies:
- Review Math Fundamentals: Brush up on your algebra, geometry, and arithmetic skills.
- Practice Problem Solving: Work through numerous practice problems to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Understand Concepts: Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.
Analytical Writing
Strategies:
- Practice Essay Writing: Write multiple practice essays under timed conditions to improve your writing speed and structure.
- Learn Essay Structure: Develop a strong essay structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Seek Feedback: Get feedback on your essays from peers or tutors to identify areas for improvement.
Recommended Resources
- Official GRE Guide: The official guide provides comprehensive practice questions and explanations.
- Manhattan Prep GRE Strategy Guides: These books offer detailed explanations and effective strategies for each section.
- Kaplan GRE Prep: Offers comprehensive courses, practice tests, and resources.
- MagOosh GRE Prep: Provides online courses and practice questions with detailed explanations.
Practice Questions
Here are a couple of sample questions to get you started:
Verbal Reasoning (Sentence Equivalence):
Choose two words that best complete the sentence, making it logical and stylistically consistent:
The critic’s review was surprisingly ______, given the film’s generally ______ reception.
A) laudatory...positive B) tepid...negative C) scathing...enthusiastic D) acerbic...mixed
(Answer: B)
Quantitative Reasoning (Problem Solving):
If x + y = 5 and x - y = 1, what is the value of x?
A) 2 B) 3 C) 4 D) 5
(Answer: B)
Remember, consistent effort and strategic preparation are key to GRE success. Good luck!