Top GRE Test Strategies from Expert Instructors
Scoring high on the GRE requires more than just knowing the content—you need the right strategies to tackle each section effectively. Here are the top GRE strategies recommended by expert instructors at MKS Education and other top institutions.
General GRE Strategies
✅ Take a Diagnostic Test First – Identify your strengths and weaknesses early. Use ETS PowerPrep or MKS GRE App for an accurate score estimate.
✅ Focus on Time Management – The GRE is time-pressured, so practice solving questions quickly. Aim for:
- Verbal: ~1 min per question
- Quant: ~1 min per question
- Essay: ~30 minutes per essay
✅ Use the Process of Elimination (POE) – If unsure, eliminate obviously wrong choices to increase your odds of guessing correctly.
✅ Simulate Real Test Conditions – Take full-length, timed practice tests to build endurance.
✅ Don’t Get Stuck on One Question – Move on and come back if time allows.
GRE Verbal Reasoning Strategies
✔ Master High-Frequency GRE Vocabulary – Learn 20 words daily using flashcards like MKS GRE App or Magoosh Flashcards.
✔ Use Context Clues for Sentence Equivalence & Text Completion – Even if you don’t know a word, look for hints in the sentence.
✔ For Reading Comprehension, Read the Question First – Don’t read the entire passage in detail. Skim for main ideas and then answer.
✔ Predict the Answer Before Looking at Choices – This helps avoid getting trapped by tricky wording.
✔ Practice with Official GRE Passages – Use ETS Official Guide for the best practice.
GRE Quantitative Reasoning Strategies
Know Your Formulas – Memorize key formulas for algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis.
Plug in Numbers for Algebra Questions – If variables confuse you, substitute numbers to simplify.
Estimate When Possible – Don’t waste time on exact calculations if an approximation works.
Be Careful with Traps in Data Interpretation – Read graphs & tables carefully before solving.
Recheck Your Work in the Last Few Minutes – Simple mistakes can cost points!
GRE Analytical Writing (AWA) Strategies
Have a Template Ready – Structure your essays into Introduction, Body Paragraphs, and Conclusion.
Use Strong Examples – Support your arguments with real-world examples, history, or personal experiences.
Time Management is Key – Spend 5 minutes planning, 20 minutes writing, and 5 minutes proofreading.
Analyze Sample Essays – Review ETS sample responses to understand what a high-scoring essay looks like.
Final GRE Test-Day Tips
✔ Take a Full-Length Practice Test 1 Week Before – This boosts confidence and helps you refine your strategy.
✔ Get a Good Night’s Sleep – Avoid last-minute cramming. A fresh mind performs better!
✔ Use the On-Screen Calculator Wisely – Only for complex calculations in Quant. Mental math is faster!
✔ Stay Calm and Move Forward – If one section is tough, don’t let it affect the next one.
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