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Are you searching for the key to unlocking success in the GRE exam? Look no further! In this blog, we're dedicated to providing you with the essential resources, including the coveted GRE exam sample question paper. It assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills. Many universities and colleges require GRE scores as part of their admissions process, making it a crucial step for aspiring graduate students.
Cracking the GRE: Understanding the Exam Pattern
Before proceeding further, it's essential to acquaint yourself with the exam's complete structure. Presented below is a table-format overview for quick reference. This breakdown includes details such as question counts, time constraints, score scales, and main subjects addressed in each GRE exam section. Mastering this layout will lay a solid groundwork for your test preparation journey.
Please refer to the table below for an overview of the GRE exam pattern
Section | Number of Questions | Time Limit | Score Range | Topics |
---|---|---|---|---|
Analytical Writing | 2 essays | 30 minutes per essay | 0 to 6 (half-point increments) | Issue topic, argument topic |
Verbal Reasoning | 40 questions (20 per section) | 30 minutes per section | 130 to 170 (one-point increments) | Reading comprehension, sentence equivalence, text completion |
Quantitative Reasoning | 40 questions (20 per section) | 35 minutes per section | 130 to 170 (one-point increments) | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis |
Best Resources for GRE Exam Sample Question Paper
When it comes to selecting the right GRE practice exam, it’s easy for applicants to be confused due to the wide range of material available. There are two types of tests, the official GRE resources like ETS offer one, and unofficial GRE test prep resources offer the other. Here is a list of factors to consider before choosing a practice test:
1. ETS paper exam
The official ETS paper exam is suitable for students who plan on taking the GRE in the paper-based mode. However, students who want to take the computer-based test can also review the types of questions asked for extra practice.
2. PowerPrep II
PowerPrep II offers two official GRE practice tests created by the same people who create the actual GRE test. This practise test will give you a sense of the actual GRE; all you need to do is make sure that your laptop or computer meets all the software requirements and is good to go.
3. Manhattan Prep GRE Practice Test
Manhattan Prep offers GRE practise tests with in-depth explanations, even though it is an unofficial resource. Students can get started by creating a free account, which gives them unlimited access to various practice tests.
4. Kaplan GRE Practice Test
Kaplan is another unofficial resource that provides high-quality GRE questions that challenge the students. Although the questions are not as comprehensive as those offered by Manhattan prep, it does provide students with a thorough score report to facilitate improvement.
5. McGraw Hill Education
McGraw Hill GRE practice test is better suited for students who want to evaluate their performance in individual exam sections. Since the style of this practise test differs from that of the actual exam, students can focus on one segment at a time rather than taking it as a full-length practice test.
Strategies for Success in GRE Preparation
Preparing for the GRE can be overwhelming if the student does not have a proper study plan in place. There are a few GRE preparation tactics to consider if you want to get a good score. Students may use the following tips and tricks to help them prepare for and take the GRE:
1. Identify your strengths and weaknesses
Before getting started with preparation, students must take an initial test to see where they currently stand and their weak areas. Once they have successfully identified their strengths and weaknesses, they can then develop a personalized study plan that focuses on specific areas.
2. Set a target score
It is essential to have a target score in mind which will eventually help you get into your dream school. Ideally, it should be at least 2-3 points more than what you need for your dream school. Once you have a rough idea about the score you are aiming for, you can then strategically devise an action plan to help you achieve the same.
3. Get comfortable with the format
The more familiar you are with the GRE format, the easier it will be to attain a good score. You need to be aware of the number of questions in each section, the scoring pattern and the order in which the sections occur. All this information, including specific directions for each section, will come in handy during the actual exam and will save you a lot of time as well.
4. Timed practice sessions
Once you have thoroughly worked on your weak areas, you are ready to take a full-length practice test. Make sure to time yourself during the test and approach it with the same seriousness to approach the actual exam. Taking multiple practise tests will make you more confident, increase your speed and give you the resilience to sit through the four-hour-long exam.
5. Attempt all the questions
Students must understand the benefit of answering all the questions in the exam. There is no negative marking, so you can only gain more marks by answering complicated questions and not deteriorate your overall score. You can leave the difficult questions or the end and then select the most appropriate answer using the elimination method.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preparing for the GRE requires a strategic approach and access to reliable resources. Choosing the right practice tests, whether official or unofficial, and leveraging their detailed score reports can significantly aid in identifying areas for improvement. Additionally, becoming comfortable with the exam format and ensuring thorough preparation across all sections are essential steps towards achieving a competitive GRE score.
By following these tips and utilizing the recommended resources, test-takers can enhance their readiness and increase their chances of attaining their desired scores, paving the way for successful admissions into graduate programs.