How Do I Study for the GRE?
Many students fear taking the GRE. They’ve seen those scary admitted student profiles for top graduate programs in psychology – and figure that if they don’t score at least as high then they may never get into grad school.
Well, the GRE is not so scary if you adequately prepare for it. And no, that doesn’t mean start studying one week in advance. Do a little bit of GRE test prep each week and you’ll come out a winner! Without further ado, here is a great overview of how to study for the GRE.
Not So Scary: Studying for the GRE the Right Way
Studying for the GRE really isn’t as hard as it seems at first. There are plenty of resources to help you, and the GRE even provides you with some excellent practice materials when you sign up to take the test.
Study Books
Several companies provide books that help you study for the GRE. Since the test is now online, most of these companies also provide practice tests that you can take on your computer. Often the best way to study is to simply take these tests, grade yourself, and study what you didn’t know.
Take a Class
Now first off, you should know that these classes are VERY expensive. Companies like Kaplan offer them for all the tests, but in reality, you probably don’t need a class to help you study for the GRE. If you decide to take one, though, inquire about the curriculum first to make sure that they aren’t just using the study materials you already have and walking you through them.
Study Groups
Oftentimes, your professors will be willing to put together a GRE study group as your success reflects on them and the school. Additionally, you may want to get together with a buddy or a group and study together. Having someone else remind you to keep studying can be the most powerful tool you have when getting ready to take the GRE.
GRE CD
When you sign up for the GRE, the company will send you a CD full of information and practice tests. The earlier you sign up, the earlier you will receive this valuable resource. When I was getting ready to take the GRE, I found that this was the most important tool I had, but since I didn’t sign up early, I only received it about a week before the test.
Set Aside Time
Make sure you set aside time each week for about a month or two to study for the GRE. If you spend 3 or 4 hours a week on the test for a month, you will probably make a good grade. By spacing out your studying, you’ll avoid having to cram for the last week in order to get through everything. It’s much more enjoyable to go have coffee one night a week with a friend and study together than it is to lock yourself in your room for a week to cram.
Studying for the GRE: Your Options
Study Books
Classes
Study Groups
GRE CD
Set Aside Time to Study
Review more industry related articles by Amber Smith at CareersandEducation.com. Amber Smith is a feature writer and often covers topics related to Campus Degree Programs and Career advice.
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