GRE Test Preparation

Answer 1

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The GRE is a test that is required for admission to many graduate programs and is increasingly being accepted by business schools for advanced business degree programs. It consists of three sections, verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning (math), and analytical writing. Questions are multiple choice except for the writing portion. The tests takes about four hours to complete.

Preparing for the GRE

The best way to prepare for the GRE is to take as many practice tests as possible. This will allow you to identify your weaknesses and learn from your mistakes. Reviewing high school math is also important. The assumption behind the math questions is that you are familiar with the basics of algebra, trigonometry, geometry, fractions and other high school math subjects, but it may have been awhile since you have seen these topics. You do not have to study high school math in-depth for the test, but you should brush up on the basics. If possible, you should also take a difficult English course such as technical writing. This will help you improve your performance on the writing portion of the test. Another tactic is to start preparing as early as possible. People who spend a little bit of time prepping each day usually get better results than people who try to cram for the test in just a few days. The GRE is just too broad and comprehensive for cramming to be effective. Keep in mind that there are no GRE test "secrets" that can easily help you get a high test score.

GRE Changes

In August, 2011 some changes to the GRE went into effect. Test takers can now skip questions and answer them later. The test also includes an online calculator for math problems. Some questions now have more than one correct answer. For the writing portion of the test, test takers can no longer choose their own topic. This change was made to prevent people from memorizing pre-written essays.

Study Materials and Professional Assistance

There are many free or low-cost GRE practice tests available online. A large number of books and preparation materials can also be purchased. There are two opposing philosophies when it comes to GRE prep. Some people believe that using free and low-cost preparation material is the best strategy to get ready for the GRE. Many people advise buying cheaper used materials and books if possible. Even though there have been some changes to the test, older prep material is still useful in preparing for the GRE. Many people prepare for the GRE on their own and are satisfied with their results. Other people tout the value of professional assistance. GRE prep courses and individual tutoring can cost from $1,000 to $3,000. Some people who have used these services are very satisfied with the help that they received. With competition for some graduate programs so fierce, they want every edge that they can get. Since you can retake the test, perhaps the best strategy is to prepare on your own for the test and take it again if you are dissatisfied with your score. At that time you can decide whether or not professional assistance could help you.

GRE Prep Resources

There are some excellent resources to help you maximize your GRE score. Some of them are listed below. This is by no means an exhaustive list of online resources for the GRE, but these websites can get you off to a good start. http://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/prepare http://www.greguide.com/gre-practice-tests.html http://www.gradschools.com/article-detail/gre-106, http://www.collegedegreeguide.com/articles-fr/gre.htm http://www.testinfo.net/gre/gre-tips.htm, http://www.usnews.com/education/articles/2010/05/14/test-prep-8-tips-for-gre-success, http://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/articles/2011/03/14/graduate-admissions-exams-get-a-makeover http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/education/edlife/edl-17popquiz-t.html?pagewanted=all http://www.studybeans.com/gre/ http://www.YouTube.com/watch?v=tLQnGGWEppk