Hundreds of thousands of hopeful students take the GRE exam every year. Getting an excellent score on the test is one of the biggest reasons students get into top ranked b-schools. Moreover, boosting someone’s GRE performance is about more than just the quantity of study time, and more about studying and preparing effectively. Getting a high GRE score may seem like something reserved for those Ivy league type students, but it’s something that anyone has the capability of doing. We’ve prepared some tips for you that we think will help skyrocket your GRE performance!
Pace Yourself
This is one of the largest factors when earning a great GRE score. Absolutely pace yourself, both studying for the GRE and while taking the GRE itself. Give yourself months beforehand to study, and space out your studying for a short time everyday. Do not cram in the last few days for the exam, giving yourself time will let your brain absorb more information, while also relieving much of the stress that will be put on you right before the exam. You want to go into the GRE relaxed, prepared, and confident.
However, it is equally important not to rush through the exam and try to remain focused and consistent in your pacing. If a question is taking you too long, skip over it. If a question seems way too easy, make sure you take a moment to read it once more. The last thing you want to do is make a simple mistake just because you weren’t paying enough attention.
Performing Under Pressure
Being prepared and taking your time are very good ways at reducing stress during the GRE exam. But it is important to be able to think on your feet. No matter how much you study, you cannot predict and know every single question on the test . In this sense, it becomes paramount to try and develop strategies and skills for dealing with the pressure of GRE.
Make sure that your GRE prep involves materials that you are unfamiliar with, make sure you are studying a variety of questions. Address reading, writing, and quantitative materials. If you feel weak in one area, spend more time with it, but do not completely ignore the other ones. Read complex texts that will help train your brain to essentially think critically, analyze, and problem solve, as you try and decipher some of these more difficult readings. Choose math problems that challenge you, that you struggle to comprehend. If you need help, turn to a colleague or friend, or even better, a private tutor.
Get a Private Tutor
Here at Apex GRE we believe private tutoring sets many applicants apart during the GRE exam, and any other standardized tests. What we at Apex offer is a highly personalized approach to tutoring, in which a tutor essentially acts as a personal guide and mentor for testing success. Private tutoring has helped boost the scores of many, and it’s a great advantage over others who are studying alone or in a group setting.
Also it is important to not be afraid of the price point. Hiring an expensive private tutor is a worthy investment, and is an investment for the long run. Trusting and buying into your tutors philosophy and time can really benefit you, as your private tutor will embrace you, your education, and your potential. Here at Apex GREwe offer top of the line private tutoring. Don’t hesitate to sign up for a free 30 minute consultation with one of our tutors!
In Review
A GRE score can become something that can define you, the stress and anxiety caused by the ever looming test day can become a cripple for many. While it may be a crucial test, something that could change your life, it is best to approach it in a calm and composed manner. With proper preparation, anyone can boost their potential on the exam and their score.
Contributor: Lukas Duncan