The Graduate Record Exam, more commonly known as the GRE, was my absolute worst nightmare. I tanked my first practice test and several study sessions ended in tears. Every time I looked up study suggestions, the articles said the same thing: plan and start studying early, which honestly made me panic even more! Despite the stress and anxiety, I found a few study tips that actually helped me learn the material. In the end, using my newfound study skills, I was able to bring my scores up by 10 points per section. Therefore, I’ve compiled a list of 6 suggestions to help you learn the material!
1. Take diagnostic test
Before you start actually studying, take a diagnostic test. You can find at least one practice test in any GRE practice book, and there are even a few online. Not only will this notify you where your baseline is, allowing you to determine how much you need to study, but it will also be a good indication of what you need to study. If you got every question with exponents wrong, then you should probably review exponent rules. Focus on the material you got wrong.
2. Review the types of questions that can be found on the exam
The questions on the exam take very weird forms. It is smart to review how questions will be presented and figure out specific tricks for addressing these questions. The “Magoosh GRE” app has many videos (some of which require payment) that introduce you to smart strategies for each type of question. I highly recommend downloading this app.
3. Download a vocab app
My biggest downfall on the verbal section was likely not understanding many of the words. I got around 75% of the sentence equivalence questions wrong on my first practice test. Once I downloaded Magoosh’s “GRE Vocabulary” app and started actively reviewing vocabulary I didn’t know from my Manhattan Prep practice book, my scores increased considerably.
4. Write down words you don’t know
If you see a word in a book, research paper or even GRE practice book that you don’t know, then you should Google it. Write down any words you don’t recognize, along with their definitions, and learn them. Not only does writing things down increase memory, but this will also help you increase your familiarity with various words.
5. Utilize Khan Academy
If you encounter any math concepts you don’t know or don’t understand, watch videos by Khan Academy. In general, these videos seem to offer the best explanations. ETS (the company that creates the GRE) even recommends Khan Academy on their website!
6. Keep practicing!
Remember – practice makes perfect! The more you study and practice the different types of questions and different math concepts, the better you’ll be. The best thing you can do is review questions provided by ETS itself, either through one of the practice books they create or their PowerPrep diagnostic tests. If you can ace these you should be fine for the actual test.
Taking the GRE was one of the most stressful things I have ever done. However, with a good study plan and great study tips the process is so much easier. I hope these tips and tricks help you reach your ideal score!
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