Preparing for the GRE test is a long process. It takes lots of dedication, hard-work and time. If you are new to the GRE general test and have no clue whatsoever on its different GRE sections, then this post is perfect for you.
Simply put, the GRE is 3 hour 45 minutes long. Plus, it is a computer-based test (CAT) which consists of 3 sections.
Table of Contents
COMPLETE GRE SECTIONS BREAKDOWN
They Are –
- Quantitative Reasoning Section(S)
- Analytical Writing Section
- And Verbal Reasoning Quantitative
FURTHERMORE…!
1. The AWA – Essay section will consist of 2 essays each separately timed for 30-mins. You will get one Issue Essay and one Argument Essay.
The aim of this section is to present complex essay ideas in a simple and relatable manner. In this section, students will have to evaluate claims, support ideas with the help of logical explanations and use standard written English to present their arguments.
2. The Quantitative Section will also consist of 2 separate sections, each having 20 questions. The time for each section will be 35-mins. Its question types will be in the form of multiple-choice questions (MCQ) with answer choices; namely focussing on data interpretation, problem-solving and quantitative comparison.
In addition, this section will incorporate basic mathematical topics featuring –
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Arithmetic
- Analyze data
- Capability to solve problems
And so on!
3. And, The Verbal Section will feature 2-section- each having a set of 20 questions. The time for each of them is 30-mins. The featuring questions will focus on –
- Text Completion
- Reading Comprehension
- And Sentence Equivalent
Furthermore; this section will evaluate every test taker in analyzing sentences, comprehending crucial concepts; vocab-in-context and writing passages.
DIGGING DEEPER INTO EXPLORING DIFFERENT SECTIONS OF GRE
Now that you have a basic understanding of GRE sections; it is time to dig deeper into understanding them.
So, let’s get down to it.
⇒ Analytical Writing Section (AWS)
The Analytical Writing Section (AWS) Aptly Measures Your Skills And Abilities For The Following.
- To articulate intricate concepts and ideas lucidly, coherently and effectively
- To support specific ideas and evidence with the use of proper examples and logicizing
- For appropriately examining claims and accompanying evidence and findings
- For sustaining a proper, focussed and coherent discussion on the topic in focus
- In addition to these, you need to have sound control and proficiency on all key elements of standard English writing
Simply put- the section needs you to present focussed responses for the topic/task and aptly demonstrate your skills while performing those issue task(s).
For any first-timer, this section will seem tricky. However, to aid them into getting better into this section, there are lots of analytical writing mock questions present.
You should look to procure them ASAP as they include plenty of sample questions, scored sample essay responses, experts’ tips, commentary and so on.
⇒ Verbal Reasoning Section
MOVING OVER; the Verbal Reasoning Section Helps Measure Your Skills and Abilities for the Following –
- To properly analyze and come to conclusions from the discourse, discover assumption/perspectives of authors, present reason for incomplete data and grasp several levels of literal, figurative and author’s intent
- To pick out crucial points, differentiate the major points from the minor or irrelevant ones, comprehend the text structure and efficiently summarize texts
- Properly understanding the meaning of words, whole texts, sentences and comprehend connection amidst words and within specific concepts
For a better and real-time understanding of these GRE sections, you can refer to the available verbal reasoning mock questions. They are readily available both online as well as in practice texts.
GRE Q-banks are also accessible- not for this section but for the others too. In addition, there you will find plenty of mock test questions with answer-hints, tips, recommendations and so on!
⇒ Quantitative Reasoning Section
As For The Quantitative Reasoning Section; It Will Test Your Skills And Ability For The Following.
- Properly understand, analyze and interpret the existing quantitative information
- Efficiently solve problems with the help of mathematical models
- Applying basic know-how on elementary concepts and using the right skills to tackle problems relating to Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra and even Data Analysis
And so on!
Interestingly, this section will allow test takers to use an on-screen calculator. However, the wise thing would be to prepare your GRE quantitative reasoning section without the use of a calculator. The preparation should be done through mental calculation.
It is what most top GRE tutors recommend students taking the test for the first time. And this is solely to sharpen their mental math skill and save time in the process during the actual test day.
To aid you in your preparation; you can easily use the mock practice texts and online mock questions to improve your test completion time. Before all of these, please make a study plan and follow it regularly. How to Create a GRE Study Plan for Total Success? ~ Have A Look
In addition; you can also use ETS recommended GRE prep guides (the latest edition). Work with its countless sample text questions. And also make proper use of its concept explanations, expert tutors’ tips, suggestions and so on; to get ready!
GRE FAQ CORNER FOR 1st TIMERS
1. Is There A Possibility To Skip Questions?
Absolutely! If you choose; you can skip questions in your GRE sections and move over to the next ones. You can always come back to answer them later. The only thing which you cannot do is go forward or back to a particular section that you are presently not solving. However, you have complete reign to move around within a section and answer questions in your convenient order.
2. Will All Questions In GRE Test Sections Consist Of The Same Points?
Indeed. All questions featuring in GRE sections will be worth the same points. You heard it. So, whether it’s a bafflingly phrased question in the reading comprehension passage on sub-atomic particles or one-blank phrase completion in the essay vocabulary part; they all will have the same points.
3. Will There Be Any Negative Marking?
No there are no negative markings on GRE sections. You know what this means; right? Attempt all questions- even if you guess it incorrectly. Who knows, maybe you might luckily get a few of them right.
4. Will Questions In All GRE Sections Get Tougher As One Moves Along?
Probably not! However, the only caveat will be on Quantitative comparisons and text completion. Test takers will find the 1st question to be very easy while the last one to be the toughest!
The only way to succeed is to prepare with the toughest questions around and expect the worst in the test. Most importantly; practice thoroughly with the best GRE prep texts around and always look to attempt the question (no matter how tough it is) confidently.
If you are beginner, then don’t forget to follow these points-
Signing Up For The GRE – YOUR GUIDE TO REGISTERING!
How Is The GRE Percentiles Score Calculated? A Knowledge-Base!
REMEMBER TO WORK HARD WITH YOUR GRE STUDY MATERIALS
The GRE test is never easy- be it for first-timers or those who have taken the test before. The questions can appear unpredictable at times. But with proper practice, preferably with the right GRE study materials; you will prevail.
Also, remember to take the online GRE practice test to know about your baseline score and unidentified unscored section.
By knowing about your strengths and weaknesses, you can work on them accordingly, prepare yourself for the big day- which will create the path to your chosen graduate school.
You better start preparing as soon as possible. Plus, don’t hesitate to take help from online GRE tutors. This is an important test.
So; you better make use of every option at your disposal to procure your perfect score. If you have financial problems then try for GRE fee waiver. Go ahead for your dream!