What are the Best Ways to Study for the GRE®?

The GRE® can be a difficult test that requires significant preparation, so it is important to research the best study methods that will work for the test taker. The first step to effectively study for the GRE® is to learn as much as possible about the test, how it is administered, what types of questions are asked in each section, how long the test runs, where the test will be administered, and so on. The more specific information about the GRE® exam the test taker researches, the better prepared he or she will be to study for the GRE® properly and with little stress.

Many manuals and instructional books are available to help the test taker study for the GRE®, and it can be difficult to choose the best one. Look for books that include a significant amount of vocabulary, as one section of the test will require the test taker to demonstrate his or her knowledge and understanding of advanced vocabulary. Making vocabulary lists is a great way to prepare for this section of the exam, and reading challenging material every day to learn new words can be helpful as well. The test taker should make it a point to learn three to five new words a day as a method of study for the GRE®.

Taking practice GRE® tests is also a great way to study for the GRE®. The GRE® website often lists recommendations for practice tests to take, and if the test taker is currently enrolled at a college or university, professors or student services may have recommendations for good prep tests to take. These prep tests will give the test taker an idea of what will be on the test as well as what the structure of the test is like. Taking a few of these tests in the weeks leading up to the test is a great way to study for the GRE®.

One of the most overlooked aspects of the studying process is mental preparation beyond simply studying facts: the test taker must teach himself to relax before the test. This means getting a good night's sleep and eating well the day before and the day of the test, but it also means mentally preparing oneself to prevent panic, stress, and worry the day of the test. It is a good idea to stop studying a day or two before the test to allow the mind to rest, relax, and recover before the test is administered.