How To Study For The GRE Effectively: An 8-Week Test Prep Plan
Contents
If you have about 8 weeks before your GRE, a clear study plan matters more than extra hours. Here is a simple two-part plan built around the current, shorter GRE.
Divide Your Study Plan Into Two Parts
With 2 months to prepare, split your plan into two parts. In month one, learn every question type on the test and put extra work into math and vocabulary.
In month two, focus on speed. Take timed practice tests and work up to harder questions as you go.
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Before you start, decide which areas to tackle first. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, then spend most of your time on weak areas while keeping your strong ones sharp.
Related Topic: GRE Test Scores, Good, Average and Range of GRE Score
Take A Timed GRE Practice Test
Step 1 is a timed GRE practice test to get your baseline score. It shows roughly what your Verbal and Quantitative scores would be today, and which topics you are strong or weak in. Use those results to design your plan.
A practice test also shows you what test day feels like. You get used to the format, the timing and the style of the questions.
Afterward, review every question with its explanation. That is how you learn from your mistakes and confirm what you already know.
Take the practice test in conditions close to the real thing: no distractions and the real time limits. The GRE takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes, including one essay task that every test taker completes.
Set aside about 1.5 hours to review your work the same day or the next. ETS, the maker of the GRE, offers free official POWERPREP Online practice tests, plus POWERPREP PLUS tests at $44.95 each.
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Related Topic: GRE Test: Introduction, Subjects, Requirements, Test Dates, GRE Scores & Benefits
Create Your Test Prep Strategy
Step 2 is your test prep strategy. Two months feels like plenty of time, but it goes fast, so don't put off starting.
Studying 5 days a week works better than cramming on weekends. Try three 30-minute sessions a day, or 1.5 hours each weekday.
For vocabulary, carry flashcards or use a flashcard app on your phone. Make sure your study materials cover the current GRE format, introduced in September 2023.
In the last 4 weeks, take 4 more practice tests: one a month before test day, then one each week. This tracks your progress and builds endurance. Allow 1.5 hours after each to check answers and read explanations.
Put your practice test dates on your calendar and keep them like any other appointment. Treat your GRE test prep as seriously as school or work.
Related Topic: GRE Practice Tests
Be Ready To Rock The GRE
If you have taken all your practice tests, you should be ready for the GRE. All that practice should keep test-day nerves low, so go in confident that you have prepared well.
