A good score is a direct result of efficient preparation. If you come up with a smart study plan and consistently follow it, there’s no stopping you from achieving what you aim for. Hence, preparation is key! However, the question is how do you go about your preparation? Before the Covid pandemic, going to coaching centers was advisable, but considering all the social distancing and preventive measures that need to be taken now, GRE preparation online is your best bet. In fact, it’s much cheaper, much more convenient.
In this article, we will walk you through some tips for your online GRE preparation. So, read on to find out!
About GRE
To begin with, let us understand what GRE is first. The GRE consists of three components — Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning each are scored between 130 to 170, which increases by a one-point increment, whereas, the Analytical Writing is scored between 0 to 6, which increases by a half-point increment. Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are both objective-based questions. The Analytical Writing, on the other hand, is highly subjective. Moreover, the highest possible score is 340, and the lowest possible score is 260. Any score above 300 or 300 itself counts as a good GRE score. And, to get a good score, as mentioned, preparation is a must. Hence, we will tell you why online classes are beneficial and also give you some pointers for efficiently preparing for the GRE online.
Benefits of Preparing for the GRE Online:
- It costs less
- Is convenient — can be taken from anywhere in the world
- Access to a lot of material
- Flexible — you can start any topic anytime once you finish
- Easier to balance work and studies
These are just a few. Now, let’s look at how to prepare for the GRE efficiently online.
How to Efficiently Go About Your Online GRE Preparation?
The GRE preparation requires a lot of your time, energy and effort. Although with efficient planning, you can prepare for the GRE hassle free. Here are some tips and points for your online GRE preparation:
a) Set a Target Score
Before you begin your preparation process, it is advisable to set a target score. To do so, you have to thoroughly research the GRE cut off scores of the universities and the programs of your choice. Setting a target score will help you build a productive study plan. Also, it will help you compare your progress with the set target.
b) Set Achievable Goals
The GRE online preparation process can be taxing in itself. So when you are setting a goal for yourself, make sure it is tangible and achievable. The key to this is to neither underestimate yourself nor overestimate yourself. Assess your strengths and weaknesses and cater to it accordingly.
c) Make a Study Plan
Once you’ve set your target score, draft a productive study plan around it. Allot equal amount of time and effort to Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing. The easiest way to go about GRE preparation is to make a schedule and stick to it. You can come up with a 1-month or 2-months or even more study plan and allot a couple of hours daily to avoid a burnout.
d) Expand Your Vocabulary
The Verbal Reasoning section tests your command over the english language. You can strengthen your GRE english preparation by reading the newspaper everyday or blogs, articles and even books if time permits you. You can make notes of new words, their meaning etc. Moreover, reading also helps you prepare for the reading comprehension section. Moreover, you can take up GRE english preparation online courses from CareerLabs as there are experts to help you through the process.
e) Take Up Practise Tests
Make it a point to take as many practise tests as possible. The online GRE preparation test or sample tests are available on the ETS official test. Measure your progress after each test and keep a track of the areas that need improvement.
f) Seek Help
Preparing for an exam during a pandemic can prove to be rather difficult. Hence, do not shy away from seeking help from friends and family. You can also seek assistance from online GRE preparation sites such as CareerLabs (www.thecareerlabs.com ). CareerLabs provides a lot of material, informative and guidance through the entire process — from preparation to appearing for the GRE. In addition, CareerLabs has numerous online GRE preparation videos which you can make use of.
g) Check Credible Online Forums
There are various online forums specifically created to cater to those appearing for the GRE. Being part of these forums will provide you an upper hand in the GRE preparation process. You get hours of classes and training, you are provided with one-on-one sessions with experts, you get access to a lot of preparation materials and more.
h) Have a Positive Attitude
It is essential to maintain a positive attitude throughout the GRE online preparation process. Try incorporating creative hobbies on a daily basis to ensure your mind is relaxed. It is also necessary to take some time out for yourself during the preparation process, so as to avoid a physical burnout. Moreover, with the ongoing pandemic, everything can get very stressful, especially if you are all alone, hence, make sure to interact with friends and family as much as possible.
We hope our tips to help with your online GRE preparation helped. Moreover, online classes as mentioned are convenient as you can prepare for the exam as and when time permits you. This gives you the flexibility you need with your preparation. So, what are you waiting for? Enroll with CareerLabs and start your GRE online preparation!