GRE preparation can be nerve-wracking, especially if you are taking the exam for the first time. From planning the study schedule, to finding the best resources, everything might seem confusing when you start. But, following the right preparation strategies can help you prepare well, especially if you are a beginner. So, what are those strategies? How should you choose the preparation resources? Read this article to find out.
GRE Preparation Strategies
Study Plan
Creating a study plan is the first strategy you need to follow while starting your GRE preparation. The amount of study time required for the preparation varies from person to person. However, on average, you might need three months or more to cover the syllabus and practice questions from all topics. No matter how much time you have left for the GRE, if you want to achieve a great score, you need to develop a structured study plan, and stick to it. A well-crafted study plan helps you to be consistent with your preparation. It will also help you divide your study and work time, if you are a working professional.
Right Resources
Using the right resources is next. Only the right, credible resources yield the best results. Hence, choose the best resources available for your preparation. You might come across various study guides and other GRE preparation books both online and offline. However, a wise selection of the resources is essential, as your learning will be mostly based on the study materials you choose. The official website of GRE and the test guides are the most credible sources. Having said that, a lot of other coaching centers and websites also provide credible learning materials now.
Practice Tests
Once you compile the best resources and start learning, the next step is taking practice tests. The more you practice, the better your chances are of getting a good score in GRE. Attempting practice tests not only familiarizes you with the question pattern of the exam but also boosts your confidence. It helps you assess the subject areas you are weaker at and gives you an overview of your preparedness. Also, practice tests help you estimate the possible score you’ll get in the actual test. Besides, finding the practice tests is not as hard as it used to be. The GRE official website and a lot of other coaching centers provide free GRE practice tests for the aspirants like you.
Track Progress
Once you start giving the practice tests, it is important to track your progress. Doing this is absolutely necessary, as this gives you an idea of where you stand in terms of preparation. Besides, it helps you track the level of improvement by comparing the test scores. Your scores in the practice test will give you an idea of how effective your preparation plan was. You can measure your progress either on a weekly or monthly basis. Regular evaluation will also help you understand if your study plan is working or not, and if not change it accordingly.
A good strategy and thorough preparation can help you get a good score in the GRE exam. Hence, if you are planning to appear for the GRE, plan your preparations with the help of above-mentioned strategies! Good luck!