The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the most widely accepted standardized tests for admission to graduate schools worldwide. Whether you’re aiming for a master’s degree, an MBA, or a PhD, a good GRE score can open doors to some of the most prestigious programs and universities. However, preparing for the GRE can be a daunting task, especially if you want to ace it on your first attempt.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pass the GRE on your first try. From understanding the structure of the test to mastering each section and developing effective test-day strategies, we’ll cover all the essential elements to help you succeed.
Why the GRE Matters
The GRE is a critical part of your graduate school application, often weighted alongside your academic records, letters of recommendation, and personal statement. Admissions committees use GRE scores to assess your readiness for graduate-level work and to compare applicants from different academic and geographical backgrounds.
How GRE Scores Are Used:
- Graduate Schools: GRE scores are commonly used to evaluate applicants for master’s, PhD, and specialized programs (like MBA programs) in various disciplines, including engineering, business, humanities, and social sciences.
- Scholarships and Fellowships: Some schools use GRE scores to award scholarships or fellowships. A strong score can improve your chances of receiving financial aid.
- Career Opportunities: While the GRE is primarily used for admissions, a high score can also reflect well on your analytical, writing, and problem-solving skills, which are valued in many industries.
Understanding the importance of the GRE is key to motivating yourself to prepare effectively. Now, let’s dive into how to get started with your GRE preparation.
1. Understanding the Structure of the GRE
Before you begin your preparation, it’s essential to understand the structure of the GRE. The test consists of three main sections:
A. Analytical Writing Section
This section evaluates your ability to think critically and express complex ideas in a clear and structured manner. It consists of two tasks:
- Issue Task: You are presented with a statement on a general topic and asked to write an essay that presents your perspective on the issue.
- Argument Task: You are given an argument and asked to analyze its logical soundness, focusing on the flaws and assumptions in the reasoning.
- Time: 30 minutes per task (60 minutes total)
- Scoring: 0 to 6, in half-point increments
B. Verbal Reasoning Section
The Verbal Reasoning section assesses your ability to understand and analyze written material, evaluate arguments, and understand vocabulary in context. It contains three types of questions:
- Reading Comprehension: You’ll read passages and answer questions that test your understanding and interpretation of the material.
- Text Completion: You’ll fill in blanks within sentences or short passages using words that best fit the context.
- Sentence Equivalence: You’ll select two words that complete a sentence and have similar meanings in the given context.
- Time: Two 30-minute sections (20 questions each)
- Scoring: 130 to 170, in 1-point increments
C. Quantitative Reasoning Section
The Quantitative Reasoning section measures your problem-solving abilities using mathematical concepts. It covers topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Question types include:
- Quantitative Comparison: You’ll compare two quantities and determine the relationship between them.
- Multiple Choice (Single Answer): Choose the correct answer from five options.
- Multiple Choice (Multiple Answers): Select one or more correct answers.
- Numeric Entry: Enter your answer in numeric form (no answer choices).
- Time: Two 35-minute sections (20 questions each)
- Scoring: 130 to 170, in 1-point increments
D. Unscored Section
There is also an unscored section (either verbal or quantitative) that is used by ETS (the organization that administers the GRE) for research purposes. You won’t know which section is unscored, so treat all sections equally.
2. Developing a Study Plan
Once you understand the GRE structure, the next step is to create a customized study plan that works for you. A good study plan is structured, goal-oriented, and takes your strengths and weaknesses into account.
A. Assess Your Baseline
Before starting your preparation, take a full-length diagnostic GRE test to assess your current skill level. This will give you a baseline score and help you identify the areas where you need the most improvement. You can find official practice tests on the ETS website or use popular prep resources like Magoosh or Manhattan Prep.
B. Set a Target Score
Determine what GRE score you need to get into your desired programs. Research the average GRE scores for the schools you’re applying to, especially in your chosen field of study. Set a target score that is slightly higher than the average to give yourself a competitive edge.
C. Create a Study Schedule
Now that you have your baseline score and target score, develop a study schedule that outlines how much time you’ll dedicate to each section of the GRE. Your schedule should be realistic and take into account your other commitments. Ideally, you should aim for at least 1-3 months of consistent study time.
Here’s a sample study plan:
- Weeks 1-2: Focus on familiarizing yourself with the test format and reviewing the basics in each section. Take another practice test at the end of Week 2 to measure progress.
- Weeks 3-5: Work on improving your weak areas. For example, if your verbal reasoning score was low, spend more time on reading comprehension and vocabulary-building exercises.
- Weeks 6-7: Begin full-length practice tests and work on pacing. By this point, you should be simulating test conditions to build stamina.
- Week 8: Final review. Focus on key strategies for each section, review mistakes from practice tests, and rest before test day.
D. Use Quality Study Resources
Invest in high-quality GRE prep materials. Some of the best resources include:
- Official GRE Guide: Published by ETS, this book provides real GRE questions, test-taking strategies, and practice tests.
- Manhattan Prep GRE Books: Known for their comprehensive content, Manhattan Prep offers detailed guides on both the quantitative and verbal sections.
- Magoosh: An online platform offering GRE video lessons, practice questions, and customizable study plans.
- Kaplan GRE Prep: Another trusted source that offers a variety of prep books, online courses, and practice tests.
3. Mastering Each Section of the GRE
To pass the GRE on your first try, it’s important to master each section of the test. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to tackle each section effectively.
A. Analytical Writing Section
The key to doing well in the Analytical Writing section is practice. You’ll need to be able to quickly plan and write coherent, structured essays under time pressure. Here are some tips for both the Issue Task and Argument Task.
- Issue Task Tips:
- Choose a Clear Stance: You must take a clear position on the issue. Avoid being too neutral.
- Structure Your Essay: A typical structure includes an introduction, three body paragraphs (each presenting a supporting argument), and a conclusion. Each paragraph should be logically organized.
- Use Specific Examples: Provide real-world examples to support your argument. Examples from history, current events, or personal experience work well.
- Practice Writing: Time yourself writing essays on a variety of topics from the official GRE pool of issue prompts.
- Argument Task Tips:
- Analyze Flaws: Focus on identifying the logical flaws in the argument presented, such as unwarranted assumptions, weak evidence, or alternative explanations.
- Organize Your Response: Write a concise introduction stating that the argument is flawed, followed by body paragraphs that address each flaw in detail, and conclude with a summary.
- Avoid Presenting Your Own Opinion: The goal of the Argument Task is not to present your own viewpoint but to evaluate the given argument critically.
B. Verbal Reasoning Section
The Verbal Reasoning section can be challenging, especially for non-native English speakers. However, with the right approach, you can improve your performance.
- Build Your Vocabulary: A strong vocabulary is essential for the Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence questions. Use flashcards, vocabulary apps, and GRE word lists to learn common GRE words. Tools like Quizlet or Magoosh’s vocabulary app are great for daily practice.
- Practice Reading Comprehension: Focus on reading a variety of texts from different genres, such as academic articles, opinion pieces, and scientific reports. Pay attention to the main ideas, supporting details, and the author’s tone and intent.
- Strategies for Text Completion:
- Look for Clues: Before reading the answer choices, try to predict the missing word based on context clues.
- Eliminate Incorrect Answers: Use the process of elimination to narrow down your choices.
- Consider Sentence Structure: The sentence’s grammar and tone can give clues about which words fit best.
- Strategies for Sentence Equivalence:
- Identify Synonyms: The two correct words will typically be synonyms or near-synonyms. Make sure both words fit logically into the sentence.
C. Quantitative Reasoning Section
Even if math isn’t your strong suit, you can still excel in the Quantitative Reasoning section with the right approach.
- Review Math Fundamentals: Brush up on the core mathematical concepts tested on the GRE, including algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis. Use Manhattan Prep or Magoosh’s math resources to review formulas and concepts.
- Master Quantitative Comparison: In this question type, you’ll compare two quantities and determine their relationship. Focus on approximation and estimation skills to save time.
- Solve Word Problems Strategically: Word problems can be tricky, so practice translating the problem into equations. Identify key information and break the problem down step by step.
- Learn to Work Quickly: Pacing is crucial in the Quant section. Practice solving problems quickly but accurately by timing yourself on practice questions.
- Use Shortcuts: Learn GRE math strategies and shortcuts, such as plugging in numbers for variables or using answer choices to backsolve.
4. Time Management and Test Day Strategies
Managing your time effectively on the GRE is crucial to your success. Here are some time management and test day strategies to help you perform your best.
A. Time Management Strategies
- Pacing: Make sure to allocate time for each question, but don’t spend too long on any one problem. If a question is taking too much time, move on and come back to it later if you have time.
- Skip and Return: If you encounter a difficult question, skip it and return to it later. You can mark questions to review at the end of each section.
- Use the On-Screen Calculator Wisely: For the Quant section, an on-screen calculator is provided, but don’t rely on it for every calculation. It’s best used for more complex arithmetic, not basic operations that can be done mentally.
B. Test Day Strategies
- Arrive Early: Make sure to arrive at the test center early to avoid any last-minute stress. If you’re taking the test at home (with the at-home version of the GRE), ensure that your testing environment meets ETS’s requirements.
- Bring Necessary Items: Bring your ID, registration confirmation, and any other required documents to the test center.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Nervousness is normal, but remember to stay calm and composed. Take deep breaths, and remember that you’re well-prepared.
- Take Breaks: During the test, you’ll have the option to take a 10-minute break after the third section. Use this break to stretch, hydrate, and refocus.
5. Reviewing Practice Tests and Improving Weak Areas
Taking practice tests is one of the best ways to prepare for the GRE. It helps you become familiar with the test format, build endurance, and identify areas for improvement.
- Review Your Mistakes: After completing a practice test, thoroughly review each incorrect answer. Understand why you got it wrong and how to approach similar questions in the future.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your practice test scores and monitor your progress over time. If you’re consistently missing questions in a particular area (such as geometry or reading comprehension), devote extra time to mastering those topics.
- Simulate Test Day Conditions: When taking practice tests, replicate the conditions of the actual GRE as closely as possible. Take the test in a quiet environment, use the same time limits, and follow the same break schedule.
Conclusion: Passing the GRE on Your First Try
Passing the GRE on your first try is absolutely achievable with the right preparation and strategies. By understanding the test structure, developing a targeted study plan, mastering each section, and practicing time management, you can boost your confidence and increase your chances of success. Remember that consistency is key—regular practice and review will help you build the skills you need to perform well on test day.
Good luck on your GRE journey, and here’s to acing the exam on your first attempt!