GRE Syllabus

Introduction

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an important milestone for anyone looking to pursue graduate school, with more than 700,000 test-takers each year. It’s designed to assess your skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and written communication—abilities that are essential for success in graduate-level programs.

In this blog, we’re going to break down the GRE syllabus in detail, covering the three main sections: Verbal Reasoning (40 questions), Quantitative Reasoning (40 questions), and Analytical Writing (2 tasks). Understanding the structure and topics of each section is key to making your study time more effective and focused.

Knowing exactly what to expect from the GRE syllabus means you’ll be better prepared to approach each section with confidence and strategy. So, whether you're just starting to study or looking to refine your approach, this guide will help you stay on track and set yourself up for success. Let’s dive in!

What is the GRE and Why is it Important for Graduate Admissions?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that plays a key role in the admissions process for graduate programs across the world. It’s designed to measure your abilities in critical thinking, problem-solving, and written communication—skills that are vital for success in graduate school.

The GRE is important for a few key reasons:

Widely Accepted: Over 1,300 business schools around the world accept GRE scores as part of their MBA program applications. This makes it a great option for those aiming for business school, but it’s also widely accepted across other graduate disciplines like engineering, sciences, and humanities. (ETS)

Comprehensive Skill Assessment: Unlike tests that measure just one area of knowledge, the GRE evaluates a broad range of skills. The Verbal Reasoning section tests your vocabulary and reading comprehension, Quantitative Reasoning measures your math and data interpretation skills, and Analytical Writing assesses your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. This means the GRE provides a well-rounded snapshot of your academic capabilities.

Global Reach: Whether you’re applying for a master’s program in business or a PhD in social sciences, the GRE is accepted by thousands of programs globally, giving you flexibility no matter what field you want to pursue.

While the GRE is still a key part of many graduate applications, recent trends show some changes. For example, in 2023, around 319,000 people took the GRE General Test, which was about 6.6% fewer than the previous year. (Achievable) This decline might be due to the increasing number of graduate programs that no longer require the GRE for admission. In fact, programs like those in molecular biology have dropped the GRE requirement altogether in recent years. (Science)

Despite this shift, the GRE is still a valuable tool for many students. A strong GRE score can help you stand out in a competitive pool of applicants, especially when programs use it to assess candidates' readiness for graduate-level work.

Understanding the GRE's role in the admissions process, as well as the current trends, will help you make the best decisions about your graduate school application strategy.

Types of GRE Exams: General Test vs. Subject Tests

When it comes to the GRE, there are two main types of exams you should know about:

The GRE General Test: This is the most commonly taken version of the GRE. It’s designed for students applying to a wide range of graduate programs. The General Test covers three main areas: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. These sections test your ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate ideas clearly—all essential skills for success in grad school. If you’re applying for an MBA, a master’s program in engineering, or even a PhD in the humanities, the GRE General Test is likely the one you’ll be taking. This test is accepted by thousands of programs, so it's pretty much the go-to exam for most graduate applicants.

The GRE Subject Tests: These tests are more specialized and are for students applying to programs that require in-depth knowledge in specific subjects, like Physics, Psychology, Chemistry, or Mathematics. If you're aiming for a program where deep subject knowledge is essential, you might need to take one of these exams. They focus on testing your expertise in a particular field, but they’re not required for most programs. Subject Tests are typically for those who are looking to go deep into a specific discipline.

For most students, the GRE General Test is the one you’ll be focused on. It's the most widely accepted, and it gives you a broad measure of your readiness for graduate studies. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the syllabus for the General Test so you can get a clear idea of what to expect and how to prepare!

GRE Syllabus Overview

Certainly! Here's a table that breaks down the GRE syllabus for you:

This table provides a clear, organized way to look at what’s tested in each section of the GRE and the areas you’ll need to focus on while preparing.

Understanding the Three Main Sections of the GRE

The GRE General Test is made up of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Each of these sections is designed to assess different skills, and together, they give graduate schools a well-rounded view of your academic abilities. Let's break down what each section involves so you know exactly what to expect, setting you up for a deeper dive into each one as we go.

1. Verbal Reasoning

The Verbal Reasoning section is all about testing how well you understand and interpret written material. It also looks at how well you know vocabulary and how you can use it in different contexts. You'll see reading comprehension questions, where you’ll need to read passages and figure out what the author is saying or implying. You’ll also get questions where you’ll need to fill in blanks in sentences with the best word choices, or choose words that make a sentence logically complete.

• What it measures: Your ability to think critically about what you read, your vocabulary knowledge, and how well you understand the structure of sentences.
• Why it’s important: Whether you’re reading research papers, textbooks, or articles, being able to quickly understand and process written material is a huge part of grad school life.

2. Quantitative Reasoning

Quantitative Reasoning is the section where you’ll tackle math problems—everything from basic arithmetic to algebra, geometry, and even data interpretation. While you won’t be dealing with complex, advanced math, it’s all about applying logic and mathematical reasoning to solve problems. You’ll need to figure out how to apply formulas, work through data, and interpret graphs and charts.

• What it measures: Your problem-solving abilities, your math skills, and your ability to interpret and make sense of data.
• Why it’s important: Whether you’re pursuing a career in business, engineering, or social sciences, the ability to analyze and interpret data is essential. This section gives schools a good idea of how well you can handle numbers in the real world.

3. Analytical Writing

The Analytical Writing section is where you get to show off your writing and reasoning skills. You’ll write two essays: one where you’ll argue for your perspective on a given issue, and another where you’ll critique an argument. This section is designed to see how well you can organize your thoughts, make a strong case, and write logically and clearly.

• What it measures: Your critical thinking, writing clarity, and logical reasoning.
• Why it’s important: Being able to communicate clearly and effectively in writing is a huge skill in graduate school. From research papers to presentations, the ability to express your ideas well is essential.

Verbal Reasoning Syllabus

The Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE assesses your ability to understand written material, use context to determine word meanings, and think critically about what you read. It consists of three main types of questions: Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence, and Reading Comprehension. Let’s break them down with examples to give you a better idea of what to expect.

Text Completion

In Text Completion questions, you’ll encounter sentences with one or more blanks, and your task is to fill in those blanks with the most appropriate words based on the context of the sentence.

Example Question: “Although the professor was known for her ____ approach to teaching, she always encouraged her students to engage in independent thinking.”

• A) dogmatic
• B) rigid
• C) eclectic
• D) obstinate
• E) methodical

Correct Answer: C) eclectic

Explanation: The word "eclectic" fits best because it suggests a broad and diverse approach to teaching. The context of the sentence implies that the professor is open to various methods, rather than being strict or rigid.

Sentence Equivalence

In Sentence Equivalence questions, you'll be given a sentence with one blank and a list of six words. You need to choose two words that, when inserted into the blank, will produce a sentence that conveys the same meaning.

Example Question: “His ____ attitude toward the project led to its eventual failure.”

• A) indifferent
• B) enthusiastic
• C) apathetic
• D) eager
• E) passionate
• F) hostile

Correct Answer: A) indifferent and C) apathetic

Explanation: Both "indifferent" and "apathetic" work here, as they both imply a lack of interest or care, which directly correlates with the failure of the project. The two words should provide a similar meaning in context.

Reading Comprehension

In Reading Comprehension questions, you'll be asked to read a passage and answer questions based on the content. These questions assess your ability to understand the main idea, make inferences, and analyze the author’s tone and argument.

Example Question (Passage): “Despite the rapid technological advancements in the healthcare sector, the implementation of these innovations in low-income regions remains an uphill battle. Numerous obstacles, such as lack of funding, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient training for medical personnel, have hindered progress. It is clear that more targeted efforts are needed to ensure that these advancements reach those who need them most.”

Question: What is the main idea of the passage?

• A) Technological advancements are improving healthcare in low-income regions.
• B) Healthcare innovations are being implemented successfully in low-income regions.
• C) The challenges of implementing healthcare innovations in low-income regions are substantial.
• D) The lack of healthcare advancements in low-income regions is primarily due to insufficient training.

Correct Answer: C) The challenges of implementing healthcare innovations in low-income regions are substantial.

Explanation: The passage emphasizes the difficulties in implementing healthcare innovations in low-income regions, mentioning obstacles such as lack of funding, infrastructure, and training.

Key Skills Assessed in the Verbal Reasoning Section

The Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE is more than just a vocabulary test—it’s about how well you can understand and think critically about language. It evaluates a few key skills that are super important for grad school and beyond. Let’s break them down:

1. Vocabulary

You’ll definitely need a solid vocabulary for the Verbal Reasoning section, especially for questions like Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence. These questions have sentences with missing words, and it’s your job to figure out which word fits best based on the context.

• What it tests: How well you know words and their meanings, and how you can figure out the right word based on the surrounding text.
• Why it’s important: A strong vocabulary makes it easier to understand complex texts and ideas. Plus, in grad school, you’ll encounter plenty of academic papers and articles that require you to understand and use more advanced vocabulary.

Example: For a Sentence Equivalence question, you’ll choose two words that are similar in meaning and fit naturally in the sentence. It’s all about picking the words that make the most sense in the context.

2. Reading Comprehension

In the Reading Comprehension part, you’ll be asked to read a passage and answer questions about it. This isn’t just about understanding the words on the page—it’s about figuring out what the author is really trying to say, drawing conclusions, and understanding the tone.

• What it tests: Your ability to identify the main ideas, make inferences, and understand the author’s intent or message.
• Why it’s important: Graduate school involves reading complex material all the time. Being able to quickly and accurately pull out key points and understand deeper meanings will help you in all your coursework and research.

Example: After reading a passage, you might have to answer questions about why the author made a certain argument or what they mean by a specific statement.

3. Understanding Logical Structure

The Verbal Reasoning section also checks how well you understand the logical flow of ideas in sentences. For example, in Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence, you need to figure out how words fit into the larger meaning of the sentence or passage. It’s about seeing how different ideas connect.

• What it tests: How well you understand how words and ideas relate to each other in a sentence or argument.
• Why it’s important: This skill is vital not just for tests, but also in real life—whether you’re writing papers, making presentations, or even just analyzing information at work. Being able to see the logical connections between ideas helps you communicate and problem-solve effectively.

Example: In a Text Completion question, you might need to choose words that make the sentence flow logically, so it makes sense in the context of what’s being said.

Quantitative Reasoning Syllabus

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE evaluates your mathematical abilities and problem-solving skills. You’ll encounter questions across four main areas: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Data Interpretation. Let’s dive into each area with example questions:

Arithmetic

In Arithmetic, you’ll deal with basic number operations, fractions, percentages, ratios, and number properties. This section focuses on understanding how numbers work and applying that knowledge to solve problems.

• What it tests: Your ability to perform basic mathematical operations and understand relationships between quantities.
• Why it’s important: Mastering these basics helps you handle real-world situations, like calculating discounts or working with data.

Example Question: What is 25% of 80?

• A) 10
• B) 15
• C) 20
• D) 25

Correct Answer: C) 20

Explanation: 25% of 80 is calculated by multiplying 80 by 0.25 (since 25% = 0.25). So, 80 × 0.25 = 20.

Example Question: If a shirt originally costs $60 and is on sale for 15% off, what is the sale price?

• A) $45
• B) $48
• C) $50
• D) $51

Correct Answer: B) $48

Explanation: 15% off of $60 means a discount of $60 × 0.15 = $9. Subtract $9 from $60: $60 - $9 = $51.

Example Question: What is the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 18 and 24?

• A) 4
• B) 6
• C) 8
• D) 12

Correct Answer: B) 6

Explanation: The factors of 18 are 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18. The factors of 24 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24. The largest common factor is 6.

Algebra

In Algebra, you’ll encounter equations, inequalities, functions, and word problems. This section tests your ability to manipulate variables and solve for unknowns in different contexts.

• What it tests: Your ability to solve equations, understand inequalities, and use algebraic reasoning to solve problems.
• Why it’s important: Algebra is crucial for many academic and professional fields, from engineering to economics.

Example Question: Solve for x: 3x - 5 = 10

• A) x = 5
• B) x = 3
• C) x = 15
• D) x = 7

Correct Answer: A) x = 5

Explanation: To solve, add 5 to both sides of the equation: 3x = 15. Then divide both sides by 3 to get x = 5.

Example Question: Solve for x: 4x + 7 = 3x + 12

• A) x = 5
• B) x = 2
• C) x = 4
• D) x = -5

Correct Answer: B) x = 5

Explanation: Subtract 3x from both sides: 4x - 3x + 7 = 12. Simplify: x + 7 = 12. Then, subtract 7 from both sides: x = 5.

Example Question: If f(x) = 2x + 1, what is f(3)?

• A) 5
• B) 7
• C) 9
• D) 6

Correct Answer: B) 7

Explanation: Substitute x = 3 into the function: f(3) = 2(3) + 1 = 6 + 1 = 7.

Geometry

In Geometry, you’ll work with shapes, angles, areas, volumes, and coordinate geometry. This section tests your understanding of geometric principles and how to apply them in problem-solving.

• What it tests: Your knowledge of geometric formulas and your ability to apply them to find areas, volumes, and other properties of shapes.
• Why it’s important: Geometry is useful in fields like architecture, engineering, and computer science.

Example Question: What is the area of a triangle with a base of 6 inches and a height of 4 inches?

• A) 10
• B) 12
• C) 24
• D) 36

Correct Answer: B) 12

Explanation: The formula for the area of a triangle is ½ × base × height. So, ½ × 6 × 4 = 12.

Example Question: What is the perimeter of a rectangle with length 8 cm and width 5 cm?

• A) 13 cm
• B) 15 cm
• C) 26 cm
• D) 40 cm

Correct Answer: C) 26 cm

Explanation: The perimeter of a rectangle is given by the formula P = 2(length + width). So, P = 2(8 + 5) = 2(13) = 26 cm.

Example Question: In a right triangle, if one leg is 6 cm and the hypotenuse is 10 cm, what is the length of the other leg?

• A) 4 cm
• B) 6 cm
• C) 8 cm
• D) 10 cm

Correct Answer: A) 8 cm

Explanation: Use the Pythagorean theorem: a² + b² = c², where c is the hypotenuse. 6² + b² = 10². So, 36 + b² = 100. Subtract 36 from both sides: b² = 64. Taking the square root of 64, we get b = 8 cm.

Data Interpretation

In Data Interpretation, you’ll analyze data presented in tables, graphs, and charts. You’ll need to interpret the information and answer questions based on the data.

• What it tests: Your ability to read and interpret visual data and make conclusions from it.
• Why it’s important: Data analysis is essential in many academic and professional fields, especially when making decisions based on research or statistics.

Example Question: The following pie chart shows the distribution of students’ favorite subjects in a class:

• Math: 30%
• Science: 25%
• History: 20%
• English: 15%
• Art: 10%

If there are 200 students in the class, how many students prefer History?

• A) 30
• B) 40
• C) 50
• D) 60

Correct Answer: B) 40

Explanation: Since 20% of the students prefer History, 20% of 200 is 40 (200 × 0.20 = 40).

Example Question: The bar chart shows the number of books sold in a bookstore during a week:

• Monday: 30
• Tuesday: 40
• Wednesday: 50
• Thursday: 60
• Friday: 70

What is the average number of books sold per day?

• A) 50
• B) 55
• C) 60
• D) 65

Correct Answer: B) 55

Explanation: Add up the total number of books sold: 30 + 40 + 50 + 60 + 70 = 250. Divide by 5 (the number of days): 250 ÷ 5 = 50.

Example Question: The pie chart shows the distribution of time spent by a student on four activities during a day:

• Sleep: 40%
• Study: 30%
• Exercise: 20%
• Leisure: 10%

If the student spends 12 hours on sleep, how many hours does the student spend on study?

• A) 6
• B) 7
• C) 8
• D) 9

Correct Answer: B) 7

Explanation: If sleep accounts for 40% of the student’s day, then 12 hours is 40% of the total time. 12 hours is 40% of the total, so the total number of hours in the day is 12 ÷ 0.4 = 30 hours. Since study accounts for 30%, the student spends 30% of 30 hours studying: 30 × 0.30 = 9 hours.

Quantitative Reasoning: Sharpening Your Problem-Solving Skills

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE is all about testing how well you can apply math to real-world problems. It goes beyond just memorizing formulas; the GRE wants to know if you can reason logically, think critically, and make sense of numbers in everyday situations. Whether you're dealing with equations, graphs, or geometric shapes, this section challenges you to solve problems efficiently and think on your feet.

Arithmetic: Understanding Numbers in Context

When it comes to Arithmetic, the GRE tests how well you can work with basic number operations—fractions, percentages, ratios, and more. These might seem like simple concepts, but they’re everywhere in daily life. For example, let’s say you're shopping and find a jacket that’s originally priced at $80. If there’s a 20% discount, how much will you pay? To solve this, you calculate 20% of $80, which is $16, and subtract it from the original price. So, the jacket will cost $64. These types of arithmetic questions test your ability to quickly and accurately handle basic number operations and make decisions in real-life scenarios.

Example Question:

If a jacket originally costs $120 and is discounted by 25%, how much do you pay for the jacket after the discount?

• A) $90
• B) $80
• C) $100
• D) $85

Algebra: Solving Equations and Inequalities

Algebra questions on the GRE require you to manipulate equations and inequalities to find the unknown variable. It's not just about solving for "x"—it’s about understanding relationships between quantities and applying your knowledge to solve problems. For instance, imagine you're asked to solve the equation 2x + 3 = 11. To find x, you first subtract 3 from both sides to get 2x = 8. Then, you divide both sides by 2, and you’ll find that x = 4. Algebra questions challenge your ability to think logically and break down problems step by step, which is a skill you’ll use not only on the GRE but in many graduate-level subjects.

Example Question:

Solve the equation: 3x - 5 = 16.

• A) 7
• B) 5
• C) 4
• D) 6

Geometry: Spatial Reasoning and Problem-Solving

Geometry questions on the GRE focus on shapes, angles, areas, and volumes. It’s about understanding how different parts of a shape relate to each other and using that knowledge to solve problems. For example, let’s say you're given a rectangle with a length of 6 cm and a width of 3 cm, and you're asked to find the perimeter. The formula for perimeter is P = 2(length + width). Substituting in the values, you get P = 2(6 + 3) = 18 cm. Geometry questions like these test your spatial reasoning skills—how well you can visualize a problem and figure out the relationships between different elements of a shape.

Example Question:

A rectangle has a length of 8 cm and a width of 5 cm. What is the perimeter of the rectangle?

• A) 30 cm
• B) 40 cm
• C) 26 cm
• D) 16 cm

Data Interpretation: Analyzing Graphs and Tables

In Data Interpretation, you’ll be asked to analyze graphs, charts, or tables and make inferences based on the data presented. This section tests your ability to understand and extract useful information from visuals, which is increasingly important in today’s data-driven world. For example, if you’re given a bar graph showing the sales of different products over the past month, you might be asked to find the product with the highest sales. Or you might need to calculate the percentage increase in sales from one product to another. Understanding how to read and interpret data quickly and accurately is a skill that’s essential in many academic and professional fields.

Example Question:

A pie chart shows the distribution of students' favorite subjects in a class of 200 students:

• Math: 40%
• Science: 25%
• History: 20%
• English: 15%

How many students prefer Science?

• A) 40
• B) 45
• C) 50
• D) 60

Analytical Writing Syllabus: Crafting Clear and Coherent Arguments

The Analytical Writing section of the GRE is your chance to show how well you can think critically and express your ideas clearly. Unlike the other sections that test your problem-solving abilities with numbers and text, this one focuses on your ability to construct a solid argument and break down complex ideas. There are two types of tasks: the Issue Task and the Argument Task. Each requires different skills, but both assess how well you can communicate your thoughts in a clear and organized manner.

Issue Task: Presenting Your Argument

In the Issue Task, you’ll be given a statement or an issue to discuss. Your job is to take a stance on the issue, whether you agree or disagree, and back it up with reasons and examples. The goal here isn’t just to state your opinion, but to present a well-reasoned argument that shows you can think critically and express your ideas clearly. For instance, you might be asked to comment on something like, "People are more influenced by their friends than their parents." You’ll need to pick a side and explain why you feel that way, offering examples that strengthen your argument.

Example Question:

"Some believe that success is largely determined by individual effort, while others argue that factors beyond one’s control, such as luck, play a larger role. Which side do you agree with and why?"

In this case, you would argue for one side—either that individual effort or external factors are more significant—and explain why, using examples from your own experience or general knowledge.

Argument Task: Evaluating the Logic of an Argument

The Argument Task is a bit different. Instead of presenting your own argument, you’ll be asked to analyze someone else’s. You’ll be given a statement or argument, and your job is to critique its reasoning. You don’t have to agree with the argument—in fact, you might disagree with it—but you need to explain why it’s not convincing, pointing out logical flaws or unsupported assumptions. For example, you might be given an argument that says, “Since crime rates have dropped in the past five years, we should cut funding for the police department.” Your task is to assess whether this reasoning holds up. Does a drop in crime necessarily mean the police are doing less work? Are there other factors that might explain the decrease?

Example Question:

"An advertisement claims that '95% of people who tried our product experienced significant weight loss within two weeks.' Critique the reasoning behind this claim."

In this task, you would examine whether the reasoning is flawed. For example, you might point out that the claim doesn’t explain how the 95% figure was calculated or whether the weight loss was sustainable.

Key Skills Assessed: Clarity, Structure, and Reasoning

In both tasks, the GRE is looking for clear communication and strong reasoning. Here’s what you’ll be graded on:

• Clarity: Your writing should be straightforward and easy to follow. Avoid convoluted language—get to the point while maintaining depth in your reasoning.
• Structure: A well-organized essay makes a big difference. Start with an introduction, clearly state your argument or critique, and end with a strong conclusion. It helps your reader follow your logic and makes your points stronger.
• Argumentation: Can you make a convincing case? Whether you’re presenting your own argument or critiquing someone else’s, it’s all about building a case with valid reasons and examples.
• Analytical Reasoning: In the Argument Task, especially, the GRE wants to see how well you can dissect someone else’s reasoning. Can you identify weaknesses and logically explain why an argument doesn’t hold up?

Tips for Preparing for Analytical Writing

Organize Before You Write: Take a few minutes to brainstorm and outline your thoughts before jumping into writing. This will help you stay focused and organized, making your essay flow more naturally.

Practice Under Time Pressure: You only have 30 minutes for each task, so practice writing essays within the time limit. This will help you learn to manage your time wisely and stay on track.

Keep Your Argument Focused: It’s easy to go off on tangents, but try to stick closely to the prompt. Ensure every paragraph adds value to your argument or critique.

Use Real-Life Examples: Concrete examples can really strengthen your argument. Whether from personal experience, current events, or even history, examples make your argument more persuasive.

Review and Revise: If you have time, review your essay after writing it. Check for clarity, spelling, grammar, and overall structure. Even small edits can make a big difference in how your essay reads.

Access and download the updated GRE syllabus PDF

Here’s a more approachable summary of the GRE test pattern in a tabular format:

Total Score Range: 260–340 (Verbal + Quantitative combined)
The Research Section doesn’t impact your score, but it’s there to help test new questions for future exams.

How to Use the GRE Syllabus for Preparation

When preparing for the GRE, the syllabus is your roadmap—it lays out everything you need to know. By breaking it down into smaller, more manageable chunks, you can design a study plan that works for you. With some focus on your weak spots and consistent practice, you can tackle the GRE with confidence.

Breaking the Syllabus Into Study Plans

The key to not feeling overwhelmed by the GRE syllabus is to break it into pieces. Instead of trying to cram everything at once, divide the syllabus into sections—Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing—and take one part at a time. Each of these sections covers specific topics, so you can focus on mastering one area before moving to the next.

For example, you could start with Verbal Reasoning. Dedicate a week or two to focus on reading comprehension and text completion. Then, the next couple of weeks could be for Quantitative Reasoning, where you dive into arithmetic, algebra, and word problems. For Analytical Writing, you can alternate between practicing the Issue Task and the Argument Task. Once you’re comfortable, start combining these into full practice tests to simulate the exam experience.

Here’s a sample plan to get started:

• Weeks 1-2: Verbal Reasoning – Focus on Reading Comprehension and Text Completion
• Weeks 3-4: Quantitative Reasoning – Arithmetic and Algebra
• Week 5: Analytical Writing – Practice the Argument Task
• Week 6: Verbal Reasoning – Sentence Equivalence and Vocabulary
• Week 7: Quantitative Reasoning – Data Interpretation and Geometry
• Week 8: Full practice tests and targeted review of weak areas.

By breaking the study plan down, you won’t feel overwhelmed and can make steady progress without burnout.

Focusing on Weak Areas and Practicing Regularly

Let’s face it—no one is perfect in every area. One of the most effective ways to improve is by identifying your weak spots and dedicating more time to them. It’s tempting to spend extra time on things you’re already good at, but to really boost your score, you need to put in the effort where it counts most.

For instance, if you’re great with algebra but struggle with geometry in the Quantitative Reasoning section, spend more time reviewing the basics of shapes, angles, and formulas. Focus on practicing timed questions to develop speed and accuracy.

Consistency is key. Regular practice, especially under timed conditions, helps build the endurance you’ll need for the actual exam. Try taking full-length practice tests every couple of weeks to gauge your progress and get comfortable with the timing. This will help you avoid surprises on test day.

Resources and Materials Aligned with the Syllabus

There’s no shortage of GRE prep resources, but the key is to find ones that directly align with the syllabus. These resources should provide practice questions, strategies, and study materials that match the exam’s format.

Official GRE Prep Materials: ETS, the test makers, offer official guides and practice tests. These are as close as you’ll get to the actual GRE experience and will help you familiarize yourself with the question types.

Online Learning Platforms: Websites like Magoosh, Khan Academy, and Manhattan Prep offer practice questions and lessons designed around the GRE syllabus. These resources are great for interactive learning.

Prep Books: Consider books like “The Official Guide to the GRE” or “Kaplan GRE Prep” that offer a structured approach to studying, complete with practice questions and tips for each section.

Vocabulary Flashcards: For Verbal Reasoning, vocabulary is critical. Digital or physical flashcards are a great way to consistently build your vocabulary and remember key words.

Study Groups and Forums: Sometimes, connecting with others who are studying for the GRE can be really motivating. Consider joining an online study group or forum, like those on Reddit or GRE-focused communities, to share insights and get support from others.

Conclusion: Your Path to GRE Success

Congratulations, you’ve just unlocked the ultimate guide to conquering the GRE! From verbal reasoning to quantitative problem-solving and analytical writing, you now have a clear understanding of what to expect and how to tackle each section with confidence.

This guide isn’t just a roadmap—it’s the foundation for your success. By sticking to a structured study plan, honing in on your weak spots, and staying consistent with your practice, you’re setting yourself up for your best performance come exam day.

Remember, this journey to GRE success is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and embrace the process. With determination, consistency, and the right strategy, you’ll hit your goals. The future is waiting, and the GRE is just one step along the way to reaching it. You’ve totally got this! ????

And while you're at it, here are a few little nuggets of wisdom to keep you going:

• "A book a day keeps the ‘I’m stuck’ away."
• "Success is a bunch of small efforts, repeated every day—preferably with a cup of coffee and some snacks."
• "The GRE is just a puzzle, and guess what? You’ve got all the pieces."
• "You don’t need superpowers to ace the GRE, just consistency, and maybe a snack (or two)."

So, pick up that book, stay fueled with a little humor and snacks, and keep pushing forward—your GRE success is right around the corner!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly is the GRE, and why do I need to take it?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test used by graduate schools to assess your readiness for advanced studies. It’s crucial for graduate and business school applicants, as it helps schools compare applicants from various academic backgrounds. A strong GRE score can boost your chances of acceptance and help secure scholarships.

What sections are covered in the GRE syllabus?

The GRE consists of three main sections:

• Verbal Reasoning: This section evaluates your ability to understand and analyse written material, and to reason through relationships between words and concepts.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Tests your math skills, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
• Analytical Writing: Assesses your ability to clearly communicate complex ideas and evaluate arguments logically.

How many questions are in each section of the GRE?

Typically, the exam contains:

• Verbal Reasoning: 40 questions (20 per section)
• Quantitative Reasoning: 40 questions (20 per section)
• Analytical Writing: 2 tasks (one for Issue Task and one for Argument Task). These tasks don’t have a set number of questions but focus on essay writing.

How long is the GRE?

The GRE takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. Yes, it’s a lengthy test, but don't stress—you’ve got this! As you practice, you’ll build up your stamina to stay sharp and focused for the whole exam.

How should I prepare for the GRE?

Start by breaking down the syllabus into manageable chunks. Create a study plan that balances all sections, focusing on weaker areas but ensuring you don’t neglect your strengths. Use a mix of official GRE prep books, online courses, and practice tests. Consistency is key, so aim to study regularly, and don’t forget to take breaks!

How can I do well on the Verbal Reasoning section?

This section is all about vocabulary, reading comprehension, and understanding sentence structure. Expand your vocabulary by reading widely—novels, articles, anything that challenges your word power! Practice interpreting the meaning of words from context. For sentence completion and equivalence, focus on refining your skills in identifying the right word based on the passage.

What’s the best way to approach the Quantitative Reasoning section?

Brush up on your basic math skills like fractions, percentages, algebra, and geometry. Make sure you’re comfortable with formulas and problem-solving strategies. Data interpretation questions will involve graphs and tables, so practice these types of questions regularly. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become!

What do I need to focus on for the Analytical Writing section?

For both tasks, practice organizing your thoughts logically. In the Issue Task, you’ll present your viewpoint and support it with reasons and examples. In the Argument Task, you’ll critique an argument based on evidence and logical reasoning. Focus on structure, clarity, and providing strong examples to back up your points.

What resources should I use to prepare for the GRE?

Here are some helpful resources:

• Official GRE Materials: ETS’s prep books and free practice tests.
• Online Platforms: Magoosh, Khan Academy, and Manhattan Prep are excellent for interactive learning.
• Prep Books: Look for “The Official Guide to the GRE” or “Kaplan GRE Prep” for well-rounded study materials.
• Flashcards: Vocabulary flashcards are a great tool to help improve your word power.

When should I take the GRE?

It’s best to take the GRE at least 2-3 months before your application deadlines. This gives you plenty of time to prepare and potentially retake the exam if needed. If you’re on a tight schedule, be sure to plan your study sessions carefully and take a practice test to gauge your readiness.

Can I retake the GRE if I’m not happy with my score?

Absolutely! You can retake the GRE as many times as you like, though you must wait 21 days between attempts, and you can take it a total of five times in a 12-month period. However, keep in mind that some schools might consider all of your scores, while others will only focus on your highest one.

How is the GRE scored?

The GRE score is divided into three parts:

• Verbal and Quantitative sections are each scored from 130 to 170.
• Analytical Writing is scored from 0 to 6, in half-point increments.
  Your total GRE score is a combination of your Verbal and Quantitative scores, with the Writing score considered separately.