Are you preparing to take the GRE? If so, you’re likely looking for ways to improve your score. This blog post will share six proven GRE preparation strategies to help you achieve your target score.
Whether taking a test prep course or studying independently, these tips will help you prepare for the exam.
So what are you waiting for? Start reading and get started on your road to success!
Related: 25 Best Final Exam Study Tips
10 Proven GRE Preparation Strategies
1. Take Practice Tests
The GRE is a daunting test, and it’s essential to be prepared.
The best way to prepare for the GRE is to take practice tests.
This will help you become familiar with the types of questions asked on the test and the time limit for each section.
In addition, taking practice tests will allow you to gauge your strengths and weaknesses to focus your studying on the areas where you need the most improvement.
If you’re overwhelmed by the thought of taking the GRE, remember that practice makes perfect.
Many online resources offer free GRE practice tests, so there’s no excuse not to take advantage of them.
With a little effort, you can significantly improve your chances of getting the score you need on the GRE.
2. Make a GRE study schedule and stick to it.
A well-crafted study schedule is crucial for acing the GRE. But what goes into an effective GRE study schedule?
First, you must set aside enough time to prepare for the test adequately.
A general rule of thumb is to allow at least six weeks of study time to prepare for the GRE adequately.
Secondly, you must ensure that your study schedule allows for consistent review.
Sporadic studying will not lead to lasting results on test days; you must commit to a regular review schedule to retain information effectively.
Finally, it would be best if you were realistic in your scheduling. Don’t try to cram too much into each day; otherwise, you’ll quickly become overwhelmed and discouraged.
Instead, focus on creating a doable schedule that you can reasonably stick to.
Sticking to a study schedule isn’t always easy, but it’s essential to do well on the GRE.
3. Know your Strength and Weakness
This is one of the most critical GRE preparation strategies.
You need to know your strengths and weaknesses to score well on the GRE.
This way, you can focus your studying on the areas where you need the most improvement.
There are many ways to assess your strengths and weaknesses.
One option is to take a practice test and then review your results.
Pay close attention to the questions you got wrong and try to identify any patterns.
- Do you tend to struggle with certain types of questions?
- Do you run out of time on certain sections?
Identifying your weaknesses will help you create a more effective study plan.
Another option is to ask a friend or family member to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Sometimes it’s difficult to be objective about our abilities, so getting input from someone else can be helpful.
Once you know your strengths and weaknesses, you can focus your studying on the areas that need the most improvement.
Also, read How to Focus on Studies Without Getting Distracted.
4. Use practice questions to focus your studying.
Once you know your strengths and weaknesses, you can use practice questions to focus your studying.
For example, try to do more vocabulary drills if you struggle with vocabulary questions.
Or, if you run out of time on the math section, focus on learning time-saving strategies.
By using practice questions to focus your studying, you can make the most of your study time and improve your chances of getting a good score on the GRE.
5. Read a lot of Analytical nonfiction.
One of the best ways to prepare for the GRE is to read a lot of analytical nonfiction.
The reading comprehension section of the GRE tests your ability to understand and analyze complex texts.
To do well in this section, you need to be able to read quickly and effectively identify the main points of the passage.
The best way to develop these skills is to read as much analytical nonfiction as possible.
This type of reading will help you become familiar with the style of writing often used in the GRE.
In addition, it will help you learn how to quickly identify the main points of a passage.
If you want to do well on the GRE, include a lot of analytical nonfiction in your reading diet.
6. Time yourself when you practice
When studying for the GRE, it’s important to time yourself when practicing questions.
This will help you get used to working under pressure and ensure you don’t run out of time on test day.
Many students make the mistake of doing all of their studying without timing themselves.
As a result, they’re shocked to find out how quickly time flies on test day.
To avoid this problem, try to time yourself when you practice questions.
This will help you get used to working under pressure and ensure you don’t run out of time on test day.
7. Practice with a friend:
Studying with a friend can help you stay motivated and on track.
It’s easy to get discouraged when studying for a long, difficult exam.
But if you have someone to study with, the process can be more enjoyable and bearable.
In addition, studying with a friend can help you stay accountable.
For example, if you agree to meet your friend for a study session, you’re less likely to skip it.
If you’re having trouble staying motivated, consider joining forces with someone studying for the GRE and see if they’d like to learn together.
8. Get plenty of sleep before the test.
You are getting plenty of sleep before the test is essential to be at your best on test day.
Many students make the mistake of staying up late the night before the GRE in an attempt to cram.
But this is usually a bad idea.
It’s much better to get a good night’s sleep and be well-rested for the test.
You’ll be able to think more clearly and do your best on the test.
So make sure to get plenty of sleep in the days leading up to the GRE.
9. Eat a healthy breakfast on test day.
Eat a healthy breakfast on test day to have the energy you need to do your best.
Many students make the mistake of skipping breakfast or eating unhealthy foods.
But this is a bad idea.
You’ll likely feel tired and sluggish if you don’t eat breakfast.
So make sure to eat a nutritious breakfast on test day.
It will give you the energy to do your best on the test.
10. Relax and stay positive
It’s essential to relax and stay positive on test days.
Many students get nervous and anxious on test days, leading to poor performance.
But if you can relax and stay positive, you’ll be more likely to do your best.
So take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’re prepared.
Then go into the test with confidence and do your best.
These are just a few proven strategies to prepare for the GRE.
If you follow these GRE preparation strategies, you’ll be well on your way to getting the score you need to get into graduate school.
So get started today, and don’t forget to keep these tips in mind. Good luck!
