GRE Exam Tips & Strategies

GRE Exam Tips & Strategies

Scoring high on the GRE requires smart strategies, time management, and focused preparation. Here are expert-backed tips to help you maximize your performance on test day.


1. General GRE Preparation Tips

Know the Exam Format – Understand the GRE structure, including sections, timing, and question types.
Take Full-Length Practice Tests – Simulate real test conditions to improve stamina and time management.
Review Your Mistakes – Focus on areas where you struggle and analyze why you got questions wrong.
Use Official GRE Questions – Practice with ETS official questions to get familiar with real exam patterns.
Improve Your Typing Speed – The GRE Analytical Writing section requires fast and clear essay writing.


2. GRE Section-Wise Strategies

Verbal Reasoning

  • Build Vocabulary – Learn high-frequency GRE words and use them in context.
  • Read Complex Passages – Practice reading academic articles, editorials, and research papers.
  • Eliminate Wrong Answers – Narrow down choices by removing illogical or extreme answers.
  • Identify Sentence Structure – Understand parallelism, modifiers, and logical flow in text completion.

Quantitative Reasoning

  • Master Basics First – Strengthen arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
  • Learn Shortcuts – Use smart techniques like back-solving and approximation to save time.
  • Avoid Calculation Traps – Many GRE math problems are designed to trick careless test-takers.
  • Use the On-Screen Calculator Wisely – Don’t rely too much on it; mental math is faster in many cases.

Analytical Writing (AWA)

  • Practice Writing Essays – Time yourself while writing Issue and Argument essays.
  • Use a Strong Structure – Follow the Introduction-Body-Conclusion format.
  • Support Your Arguments – Use examples, logical reasoning, and clear transitions.
  • Don’t Overuse Fancy Words – Clarity and logical flow matter more than complex vocabulary.

3. Time Management on Test Day

Pace Yourself – Keep track of time, and don’t get stuck on one question.
Mark & Review – Use the flagging feature to return to tricky questions later.
Stay Calm Under Pressure – If stuck, take a deep breath and move on.
Use the Break Wisely – The 10-minute break is crucial; stretch, hydrate, and reset your mind.


Start Your GRE Prep with MKS Education!

Expert Guidance | Realistic Practice Tests | Personalized Study Plans
Enroll Now: MKS Education

Would you like to add any specific strategies?