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How do I Choose the Best GRE® Prep Tests?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

When you are trying to choose the best Graduate Record Examination® (GRE®) prep tests, you may find that your best option is available for free. Students are eligible for free preparation materials when they register for the GRE® and can typically download the materials or request them on a CD. In lieu of using these free materials, you may compare prep test options based on whether or not they include comprehensive content and by reviewing recommendations of people who have already taken the GRE®. Additionally, you may consider cost and how current an option is when you are trying to choose the best GRE® prep tests.

One of the best GRE® prep tests you can take may be found in the free materials you receive when you register for the GRE®. When you register for this exam, you are eligible for computer-based practice tests in addition to other preparation materials. You will need access to the Internet to download the free preparation software. In the event that you do not have regular Internet access, however, you may request the materials on CD by contacting the GRE® program or your local test center.

The best GRE prep tests will include multiple choice questions that cover all the topics covered on the exam.
The best GRE prep tests will include multiple choice questions that cover all the topics covered on the exam.

As far as other GRE® prep tests are concerned, you may compare options based on their content. To be effective, it is important that a GRE® prep test contains content that is similar to that found on the official GRE®. As such, it should have a verbal section that includes reading, vocabulary, and reasoning questions in multiple-choice form. The best prep test will also include a quantitative test that lists multiple-choice questions that cover basic mathematics, quantitative reasoning, and a range of math concepts. Additionally, a good GRE® prep test will provide the opportunity for you to write an essay in which you respond to an issue and another in which you critique an argument.

Sometimes it can be difficult to judge how helpful GRE® prep tests will be before you take them. For this reason, you may find it helpful to get recommendations from others who have scored well on the exam. They may be willing to share helpful prep test recommendations and steer you away from others. If you do not know anyone who has taken the GRE®, you may look online for reviews instead.

You may also consider costs when you are trying to choose the best GRE® prep tests. Some practice tests may be more expensive than others, and you may find some that are available for free online. Additionally, you may be best prepared if you choose practice tests that have been designed in recent years in order to avoid outdated questions.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

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    • The best GRE prep tests will include multiple choice questions that cover all the topics covered on the exam.
      By: David G
      The best GRE prep tests will include multiple choice questions that cover all the topics covered on the exam.