The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that assesses your readiness for graduate-level academic work. Designed to measure your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills, the GRE is a key factor in graduate school admissions. This guide from Lingua Lab compiles essential information, tips, and strategies to help you excel in every section of the GRE.

The GRE General Test is a computer-delivered exam with a user-friendly design, allowing test-takers to:

• Skip questions within a section.
• Go back and change answers.
• Choose the order in which to answer questions within a section.

Test Sections and Timing

(Effective September 22, 2023)
The total test duration is 1 hour and 58 minutes, comprising five sections:

Measure	Number of Questions	Allotted Time
Analytical Writing	One “Analyze an Issue” task	30 minutes
Verbal Reasoning	– Section 1: 12 questions	– Section 1: 18 minutes
	– Section 2: 15 questions	– Section 2: 23 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning	– Section 1: 12 questions	– Section 1: 21 minutes
	– Section 2: 15 questions	– Section 2: 26 minutes

Key Features:

• The Analytical Writing section is always the first section.
• Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections may appear in any order after the Analytical Writing section.

This structure ensures flexibility for test-takers while evaluating their writing, reasoning, and quantitative skills comprehensively.

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Overview of the GRE

The GRE General Test consists of three main sections:

1. Verbal Reasoning
2. Quantitative Reasoning
3. Analytical Writing

Each section is designed to test different skill sets:

Verbal Reasoning

This section assesses your ability to:

• Analyze and evaluate written material.
• Synthesize information obtained from written text.
• Analyze relationships among component parts of sentences.
• Recognize relationships between words and concepts.

Quantitative Reasoning

This section tests your ability to:

• Understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information.
• Solve problems using mathematical models.
• Apply basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

Analytical Writing

This section evaluates your ability to:

• Articulate and support complex ideas.
• Construct arguments effectively.
• Sustain a focused and coherent discussion.

The GRE General Test is computer-based and adaptive, meaning question difficulty adjusts based on your performance. The test measures both accuracy and reasoning ability.

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Verbal Reasoning

Question Types

1. Text Completion
   • Tests your ability to evaluate and complete sentences using context clues.
   • Each passage contains one to five sentences with one to three blanks. For each blank, you must select the most appropriate word or phrase from a list.
   Tips for Text Completion:
   • Read the passage to understand the context before filling in blanks.
   • Focus on key words or phrases that signal relationships or transitions (e.g., “however,” “therefore”).
   • Eliminate options that do not fit grammatically or logically.
2. Sentence Equivalence
   • Requires you to select two options that both complete the sentence meaningfully and produce equivalent meanings.
   Tips for Sentence Equivalence:
   • Look for contextual clues in the sentence.
   • Ensure your selected pair of words results in coherent and similar meanings.
3. Reading Comprehension
   • Tests your ability to analyze and interpret passages of varying lengths.
   • Questions may include multiple-choice, select-in-passage, or multiple-answer types.
   Tips for Reading Comprehension:
   • Read actively, identifying the author’s main point, tone, and purpose.
   • Eliminate answers that are too broad, narrow, or not supported by the passage.

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Quantitative Reasoning

Question Types

1. Quantitative Comparison
   • Compare two quantities and determine their relationship.
2. Multiple-Choice Questions
   • May have one or more correct answers; select all that apply.
3. Numeric Entry
   • Requires you to input an answer rather than choose from options.
4. Data Interpretation
   • Involves analyzing graphs, tables, or charts.

Topics Covered

• Arithmetic: Number properties, operations, percentages, and ratios.
• Algebra: Solving equations, inequalities, and functions.
• Geometry: Lines, angles, circles, and coordinate geometry.
• Data Analysis: Probability, statistics, and interpreting data representations.

Tips for Quantitative Reasoning:

• Familiarize yourself with GRE question formats.
• Review fundamental math concepts.
• Practice solving problems within the time limit.
• Pay attention to units and rounding instructions.

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Analytical Writing Measure

The Analytical Writing measure assesses your critical thinking and writing skills. It consists of two tasks:

1. Analyze an Issue

• You’ll be presented with an opinion and asked to construct a reasoned argument agreeing or disagreeing with the statement.
• Instructions vary but often require you to:
  • Address the complexities of the issue.
  • Provide supporting evidence and examples.

2. Analyze an Argument

• You’ll evaluate an argument presented in a short passage and critique its logic and evidence.

Preparation Tips:

• Review sample topics and scoring guides.
• Practice planning and writing essays within 30-minute time limits.
• Develop a structured approach: Introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Proofread for clarity and grammar.

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General GRE Preparation Tips

1. Understand the Test Format
   • Familiarize yourself with the structure and timing of each section.
2. Create a Study Plan
   • Allocate time to each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.
   • Set achievable goals and stick to a schedule.
3. Practice Regularly
   • Use official GRE practice tests and materials.
   • Simulate test conditions to improve time management.
4. Learn Strategies
   • For Verbal Reasoning, build vocabulary and practice contextual reading.
   • For Quantitative Reasoning, focus on shortcuts and problem-solving techniques.
   • For Analytical Writing, refine your ability to construct logical, persuasive arguments.
5. Take Care of Yourself
   • Get adequate sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and manage stress.

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Why Choose Lingua Lab?

At Lingua Lab, we provide:

• Expert instructors with years of experience in GRE preparation.
• Personalized coaching to target your weak areas.
• Comprehensive study materials and practice tests.
• Proven strategies to help you achieve your target score.

Whether you’re aiming for a top graduate program or strengthening your skills, Lingua Lab is here to support your GRE journey. Start preparing today and unlock your potential!