Students aspiring to study in
graduate schools or business schools in the United States or elsewhere,
apply for the GRE examination. This is one of the most competitive
examinations that happen at the international level and one needs
rigorous training and preparation for thisThere are two parts of
the GRE test: the computer based test and the paper based test. The
computer based test is of 3 hours and 45 minutes and is conducted
online; while the paper based test is of 3 hours 30 minutes. The GRE
examination pattern can broadly be divided into four main components or
thrust areas:- quantitative reasoning
- verbal reasoning
- critical thinking
- analytical writing
Since,
apart from hard work and dedication one requires to deploy certain
tips, tricks and strategies, some have been shared below for the
advantage of the students.
Analytical reasoning:
This
section assesses the candidate’s ability to articulate ideas, produce a
well structured argument and discussion, and complement them with
relevant examples and evidences. This section has two separate tasks of
30 minutes called ‘analyze and issue’ and the other is ‘analyze and
argument’. There is a 0-6 scale for reporting the score for this
section.
Verbal reasoning:
In this section, a discourse is
being given to the candidate and it assesses the student’s ability to
interpret, analyze and draw conclusions from it. There are two sections
of 20 questions each and each section is of 30 minutes. It focuses on
close textual reading of a given passage. On a scale of 130-170 the
score is reported.
Quantitative reasoning:
In this section
one has to deduce and analyze quantitative information that is provided
to the candidates. Oftentimes, the students are being tested on algebra,
statistics, probability and geometry. There are two sections of 35
minutes each having about 20 questions. On a scale of about 130-170 the
score is reported.
Some tips and recommendations on taking GRE are shared below:
- It is very important to limit and distribute your time accordingly. The 30 or 35 minutes that are provided for each section has to be spaced out well so that there is no crunch of time later.
- Save a few minutes at the end for revision work and correction of certain errors. However, minor typos and grammatical errors are not taken into consideration.
- Since, there is no negative marking, it is best to answer all the questions.
- It is better not to devote too much time on one particular question. If you get stuck anywhere, leave and move on to other questions.
- There are many online sites where online tests are available for each of these sections. You can access these and test your progress and competence.
- Choose the authorized books that are meant for the preparation and training for GRE. Bad books might jeopardize the whole learning process.
Cracking and fairing well in GRE
examinations are, therefore, not a difficult task if the preparation is
done systematically and as per proper rules.
