Strategies for Achieving a 320 GRE Score: Verbal and Quantitative Prep
Welcome to your roadmap to a high-scoring GRE! This guide is designed to help beginners get a total score of 320 or more on the GRE exam. We will break down the steps you need to follow, the resources you should use, and provide tips to ensure your preparation is effective and efficient.
Understanding the GRE Syllabus
The first step in preparing for the GRE is to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus. Always start with the ETS Official Guide. This guide will provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect and the types of questions you will encounter in both the Verbal and Quantitative sections.
Brushing Up on Math Concepts
Mathematics forms a significant part of the Quantitative section, so it’s important to have a solid foundation of concepts. It usually takes around 3-4 days to brush up on the necessary math skills. This foundational phase will set the stage for your preparation, ensuring you are comfortable with basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Familiarizing Yourself with the Verbal Section
Once the math concepts are refreshed, spend two to three days focusing on the Verbal Section. Take note of question types that you find challenging. Understanding your weaknesses is key to improving them. Effective preparation should focus on areas where you need the most improvement.
Starting with a Practice Test
Before diving into your prep, it’s essential to take a practice test. This will give you an idea of your current level and where you need to focus most. The two free and official ETS practice tests are a great way to get started.
Creating a Study Plan
After your initial assessment, it’s time to start your actual prep. Begin with building your vocabulary, as this is crucial for success in the Verbal section. Create a word list and aim to learn around 20 obscure words daily. Learn and review them daily to ensure retention. Utilize etymological references and sentence arrangements to aid in recall. The book 'by Norman Lewis' is highly recommended for improving vocabulary.
Starting early and learning 5 words daily, in the long run, will help you habituate and retain most of the words. Tools like the Magoosh Flash Cards for GRE Vocab can be very helpful. Mix up your vocabulary learning by including words with varied origins and contexts, rather than sticking to words with the same alphabet.
Acing the AWA Section
The Analytical Writing Assesment (AWA) is also an important part of the GRE. Start practicing by writing argumentative essays. Refer to the ETS guide for sample essays and compare your essays to help improve your writing skills. Aim to write at least two to three essays per week, focusing on clarity, structure, and coherence.
Time Management and Preparation Timeline
Two and a half months is generally sufficient for achieving a decent score. However, starting vocabulary preparation half a year early is highly recommended. This early start will allow you to build a strong foundation and gradually build up your skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Regularly reading English books and articles, particularly from magazines like Time and Scientific American, can significantly enhance your reading capacity and vocabularies. This practice will be beneficial during the verbal section of the GRE.
Additional Resources
In addition to the resources mentioned above, consider the following sources:
The YouTube channel Gregmat Official ETS Practise Materials, which include the official GRE guide, question bank for GRE Quants, and question bank for GRE Verbal. The book Barron’s Essential Words for GREIf you are a beginner, it is highly recommended to consult seniors who have successfully completed the GRE. Their experience and advice can greatly contribute to your preparation.
Final Words
Many GRE preparation services offer practice tests that are tougher than the actual exam; however, don't allow this to deter your determination. Stay focused, consistent, and confident in your preparation. With the right strategies and dedication, you can achieve a high score on the GRE.