Leading up to the GRE, many students ask what they should be thinking about when they walk into the test center. We always tell them to focus on the following things: Relax. Stress is your enemy. Stop thinking about specific GRE concepts—you’ve prepared enough at this point. Think instead about overall success, and visualize scoring […]
The Hardest Official GRE Practice Problems
You can find nearly 1,000 official GRE practice problems from ETS. Of those, about 200 have an interesting statistic of test takers who answered the question correctly on a real exam. Presumably, the lowest percentage marks the hardest official practice problem and there are two that tie for this distinction. In The Official Guide to the […]
Using Argument Topics to Prepare for GRE Reading Comprehension
GRE Reading Comprehension passages often present arguments. By argument, we don’t mean a messy quarrel. In this context, an argument is an attempt to give reasons (premises) in support of a novel or debatable claim (a conclusion). Analyzing arguments is a crucial skill for Reading Comp. Luckily for you the makers of the GRE offer […]
The Essential 10-Key Numeric Keypad
Since 2011, the GRE General Test permits the use of a calculator. But, not just any old calculator, an on-screen calculator that is part of the GRE software. This four-function calculator is invaluable for performing rapid arithmetic and basic calculations. It’s not helpful as a substitute for problem-solving skills, strategy, and good planning. In other […]
Vocabulary and the GRE: Keeping a Word Journal
The two most frequent questions students have about the GRE are: “What math do I need to study,” and “What vocab do I need to know?” If you’re here, you’re likely trying to find answers to the second question. So, how does the GRE test your vocabulary? Let’s talk about it. GRE Vocabulary Having a […]
3 Self-Study Options for the GRE
If you’re here, you’re probably thinking about knocking out your GRE. A lot of clarity comes by taking the GRE early in the admissions process. You don’t need to do anything elaborate or over commit yourself. You can start your GRE prep without disrupting the rest of your life. The key is time and consistency. […]
12 Week Study Plan to Knock Out the GRE
Let’s Knock Out Your GRE If you’re here, you’re probably thinking about applying to business school, law school, or graduate school. The GRE is one of the most important steps you will take to get into the college you want, so plan for it. Relying on luck and hope to get a good score is […]
Why Breaks from Prep Can Increase Your GRE Score
If you’re studying for the GRE, make sure to schedule several breaks! Anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on your overall time frame. At first glance, this advice may seem counter-intuitive. To increase your score, you should plan to not study? Yes! Here’s why. Not an Ordinary Exam Studying for the GRE […]
Speed Reading on the GRE Reading Comprehension Section
The GRE is a timed test. When it comes to Reading Comprehension, you may worry that you’re being tested on reading speed, too. While speed does matter, you don’t need to be a speed reader to excel in this section. So, how fast do you need to read? Pace Yourself First off, think about the […]
How to Read Long GRE Passages
Repeat after me. There’s no quick and easy shortcut. As you begin each Verbal section, you will see approximately ten Reading Comprehension passages. One or two of which will be longer than a single paragraph. These long passages can be both overwhelming and time-consuming. So, let’s take a moment to consider the proper approach for […]