The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate and business schools worldwide. It assesses a candidate’s readiness for advanced studies by testing skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
GRE Overview
- Administered By: ETS (Educational Testing Service).
- Duration: Around 3 hours 45 minutes.
- Scoring:
- Verbal Reasoning: 130–170 (in 1-point increments).
- Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170 (in 1-point increments).
- Analytical Writing: 0–6 (in half-point increments).
GRE Syllabus
The GRE is divided into three main sections:
1. Analytical Writing
- Duration: 1 hour (2 tasks, 30 minutes each).
- Tasks:
- Analyze an Issue: Write an essay presenting your perspective on a given topic.
- Analyze an Argument: Critique an argument, identifying logical flaws and suggesting improvements.
- Skills Tested:
- Critical thinking.
- Articulation of ideas.
- Logical reasoning and clarity of expression.
2. Verbal Reasoning
- Duration: 2 sections, 30 minutes each (20 questions per section).
- Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension:
- Answer questions based on passages from humanities, social sciences, or sciences.
- Text Completion:
- Fill in blanks with the correct word(s) based on context.
- Sentence Equivalence:
- Choose two words that complete a sentence with the same meaning.
- Reading Comprehension:
- Skills Tested:
- Understanding vocabulary in context.
- Analyzing relationships between ideas.
- Drawing conclusions from texts.
3. Quantitative Reasoning
- Duration: 2 sections, 35 minutes each (20 questions per section).
- Question Types:
- Quantitative Comparison:
- Compare two quantities and choose a relationship.
- Multiple-Choice:
- Single or multiple correct answers.
- Numeric Entry:
- Input your answer directly.
- Quantitative Comparison:
- Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic (fractions, percentages).
- Algebra (equations, inequalities).
- Geometry (angles, circles, coordinate geometry).
- Data Analysis (graphs, probability, statistics).
GRE Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allocated |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 2 Tasks | 60 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning | 40 Questions (2 sections) | 60 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 40 Questions (2 sections) | 70 minutes |
| Experimental (Unscored) | Varies | 30–35 minutes |
| Total | ~80 Questions | ~3 hours 45 minutes |
GRE Scoring
- Total Score: 260–340 (Verbal + Quantitative).
- Analytical Writing: Scored separately (0–6).
- Percentile Rank: Indicates how a candidate’s score compares to others.
Preparation Tips
- Familiarize with the Format: Take official ETS GRE practice tests.
- Expand Vocabulary: Learn high-frequency GRE words (e.g., through flashcards).
- Master Math Basics: Focus on problem-solving and data interpretation.
- Time Management: Practice under timed conditions.
- Analyze Essays: Review sample essays for high-scoring examples.
- Review Concepts: Brush up on geometry, algebra, and statistics.
Additional GRE Features
- Computer-Based GRE: Most test-takers opt for the computer-based format.
- Paper-Based GRE: Offered in regions without computer-based testing centers.
- GRE Subject Tests (Optional): For specific subjects like Mathematics, Physics, or Biology.
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