What is GRE?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools, especially in the United States and Canada. It is used to assess the readiness of applicants for graduate-level academic work. The GRE is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and consists of three main sections:

1. Verbal Reasoning: Measures reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary usage.
2. Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses basic math skills, understanding of quantitative concepts, and the ability to solve problems using mathematical reasoning.
3. Analytical Writing: Requires test-takers to write essays that measure critical thinking and analytical writing skills.

The GRE is often required for admission to graduate programs in fields such as business, social sciences, and the humanities, as well as for some specialized master’s and doctoral programs. Some business schools may also accept the GRE instead of the GMAT for MBA admissions.

Scoring is on a scale of 130-170 for the Verbal and Quantitative sections, and 0-6 for the Analytical Writing section.

How can I prepare for GRE?

Preparing for the GRE requires a structured approach, focusing on understanding the test format, developing the right skills, and practicing consistently. Here are key steps to help you prepare:

1. Understand the Test Format

• Sections: GRE has Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections.
• Timing: The total duration is about 3 hours and 45 minutes.
• Question Types:
  • Verbal: Reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, and text completion.
  • Quantitative: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis.
  • Analytical Writing: Issue task and argument task (two essays).

2. Create a Study Plan

• Assess Your Baseline: Take a practice test to understand your starting point and identify weak areas.
• Set a Target Score: Research the average GRE scores required for the programs you’re applying to and aim for a score that meets or exceeds that.
• Daily/Weekly Study Schedule: Break down your study plan over several weeks or months, dedicating specific time to each section of the GRE.

3. Strengthen Vocabulary

• Flashcards: Create flashcards or use apps like Quizlet or Magoosh to build your vocabulary. GRE tests understanding of complex words.
• Practice with Context: Learn new words in context, using example sentences to reinforce meaning.

4. Master Math Concepts

• Review Key Topics: Brush up on basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
• Practice Problem-Solving: Focus on solving problems under timed conditions to simulate the test environment.
• Use Study Materials: Resources like Manhattan Prep, ETS’s official GRE materials, and Kaplan can be helpful.

5. Develop Analytical Writing Skills

• Practice Essays: Write essays regularly on different prompts from the ETS pool to develop structured and coherent arguments.
• Get Feedback: If possible, have someone review your essays and offer feedback, or use online scoring services.

6. Take Practice Tests

• Simulate Test Conditions: Take full-length practice tests under real-time constraints to build stamina and get familiar with the test format.
• Analyze Your Mistakes: Review each test thoroughly, focusing on areas where you made mistakes to improve.
• ETS PowerPrep: Use ETS’s official practice tests to get a feel for the actual GRE.

7. Time Management

• Pacing: During practice sessions, focus on completing sections within the time limit. Practice skimming passages quickly for the verbal section and using shortcuts for quantitative problems.
• Skipping Questions: Don’t get stuck on any one question. Learn to skip difficult questions and return to them later if time permits.

8. Use Quality Study Materials

• Books:
  • Official GRE Guide by ETS: Provides the closest approximation to the actual test.
  • Manhattan Prep: Detailed strategies and practice questions for each section.
  • Magoosh GRE Prep: Offers video lessons and practice questions with explanations.
• Apps: GRE study apps such as Magoosh or GRE Prep by Ready4 can be useful for on-the-go practice.
• Online Resources: Forums like Reddit’s GRE Prep or websites like GRE Prep Club are excellent for discussing strategies and finding tips.

9. Stay Consistent and Track Progress

• Keep track of your improvement by logging your practice test scores and review weak areas regularly.
• Use tools like study journals or spreadsheets to keep track of vocabulary, math formulas, and practice questions.

10. Relax Before the Exam

• Get a good night’s sleep before the test, and don’t over-study the day before. Make sure to eat well and arrive early at the test center with all necessary documents.

11. Consider Coaching or Classes

• If you prefer structured guidance, you might consider enrolling in a GRE prep course (online or in-person). Popular providers include Kaplan, Manhattan Prep, and Princeton Review.

With consistent practice, proper time management, and the right resources, you can achieve your target GRE score!

What is GRE syllabus?

The GRE syllabus covers three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Below is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus for each section:

1. Verbal Reasoning

This section measures your ability to understand and analyze written material, evaluate arguments, and recognize relationships between words and concepts. It consists of two types of questions:

• Reading Comprehension: Test-takers are required to read passages and answer questions based on the content.
  • Comprehension questions can ask about the main idea, specific details, inferences, or logical structure.
• Text Completion: Sentences or paragraphs have one or more blanks, and you must choose the correct word(s) from the given options to complete the sentence meaningfully.
• Sentence Equivalence: A single sentence with one blank and six answer choices. Test-takers must select two words that provide equivalent meaning and complete the sentence appropriately.

Topics Covered:

• Vocabulary, synonyms, and antonyms
• Passage-based comprehension
• Identifying main ideas and supporting details
• Understanding word meanings in context
• Evaluating arguments and logical structure of passages

2. Quantitative Reasoning

This section tests basic mathematical concepts and quantitative problem-solving ability. It focuses on high-school-level math topics.

• Arithmetic: Includes properties of integers, operations, fractions, percentages, ratios, absolute values, and more.
• Algebra: Includes topics such as algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, quadratic equations, and coordinate geometry.
• Geometry: Covers properties of shapes, area, perimeter, volume, the Pythagorean theorem, angles, and circles.
• Data Analysis: Covers data interpretation, mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, probability, and sets.

Topics Covered:

• Arithmetic: Integers, exponents, factors, decimals, percentages, ratio and proportion, powers and roots, absolute values.
• Algebra: Solving linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, algebraic expressions, functions, coordinate geometry (lines, slopes, equations).
• Geometry: Basic concepts of angles, lines, triangles, polygons, circles, area, perimeter, and volume.
• Data Interpretation: Interpreting data from graphs, charts, tables, and using statistical measures (mean, median, mode, probability).
• Word Problems: Real-world application of mathematical concepts.

3. Analytical Writing

This section measures your ability to think critically, communicate complex ideas clearly, and support arguments with evidence. It consists of two tasks:

• Issue Task: You are presented with a statement or topic and asked to write an essay expressing your views. You must present a coherent argument and justify your position with reasons and examples.
• Argument Task: You are given a passage that presents an argument. Your task is to critique the reasoning of the argument, evaluating its logical soundness, identifying any flaws, and suggesting improvements.

Skills Assessed:

• Critical thinking and analytical writing: Formulating and supporting complex ideas.
• Logical development: Structuring ideas and developing a clear, well-organized response.
• Argument evaluation: Assessing the validity of claims, reasoning, and evidence.

GRE Section Overview:

Section	Question Types	Skills Tested
Verbal Reasoning	Reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence	Vocabulary, comprehension, critical reading
Quantitative Reasoning	Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data interpretation	Mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, data analysis
Analytical Writing	Issue essay, argument analysis essay	Analytical writing, logical reasoning, argument critique

Each section is timed, with Verbal and Quantitative sections each lasting around 35 minutes per section (two sections each), and the Analytical Writing section consisting of two 30-minute essays.

By focusing on these topics, you can prepare effectively for the GRE!