Are you planning to do your higher studies abroad? If so, you need write certain exams and GRE will be one among them. No matter what course you want to enroll in, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is an important test for admission into masters and doctoral programmes in all fields, especially in the US. This test examines the applicant’s skills in aptitude, reasoning and writing.

Here’s everything you need to know about GRE:

GRE test format and structure

GRE has three different sections which test the person’s skill and each section has a time limit. The entire examination takes 3 hours and 45 minutes and in each section with two tasks that need to be completed.

1. Verbal reasoning

This section consists of two 30-minute sections, each containing 20 questions. It tests the vocabulary, grammar and reading comprehension skills. Question types include sentence equivalence, text completion, and reading comprehension.

2. Quantitative reasoning

This section consists of two 35-minute sections, each containing 20 questions. It tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data analytical skills. Question types include comparing values, analyzing data, and solving word problems.

3. Analytical writing

This section has two separately timed tasks: one 30-minute 'Analyze an Issue' task and another 30-minute 'Analyze an Argument' task. It tests the ability to write clearly and effectively.

To secure a good GRE score, it is important to prepare strategically. Below are the few steps you need to follow:

Know where you stand

Take a full-length mock test online and analyze the knowledge you possess and determine which section you are actually weak in. You will also get an overall idea of the format and the speed required to complete the test. Based on this mock test score, make your plan and set the targets which can be achieved within the specific time frame. 

Improve your vocabulary skills 

Almost 50% of verbal ability section tests the vocabulary and hence, it is not only important to learn new words but also in contextual meaning and usage. The test will contain tricky questions and have answer options with very close meanings. So, it’s important to start building your vocabulary skills.

Practice, review and analyze

Practicing the previous years’ GRE test papers is the most effective method but it should also involve regular reviewing and analyzing of the test taken. This will ensure the quality of tests you take, which is more important that the quantity of tests taken. It will also help you understand your mistakes so that you can correct yourself in the next test for securing a better score. 

By having a clear idea of the pattern of the exam and a regular practice, you can easily obtain a great score in GRE. To get in touch with the professional guidance, enroll yourself in the best GRE classes.