Okay, so I’m applying to grad school in the fall and that means I need to take the GRE. I’m really nervous about it because I haven’t taken a standardized test like this since the SAT, and that was ages ago. I’m specifically worried about the Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning sections. I need to brush up on everything, basically.
I’m on a pretty tight budget, so free or low-cost resources would be amazing. I’m also working full-time, so I need something that’s flexible and can fit into my schedule. I’m not sure if I learn better with online courses, practice tests, or actual textbooks, so any advice on what’s most effective would also be appreciated.
To be clear, I’m talking about the GRE specifically, but if you know of general study tips that apply to any standardized test, I’m all ears! Are there any good websites, apps, books, or even strategies I should be aware of? I’m looking for anything and everything! Thanks in advance for any help you can offer!
Answer
Many resources exist to help you prepare for standardized tests. These resources can be broadly categorized into official test maker materials, commercial test preparation companies, free online resources, tutoring services, and study groups. Each category offers unique benefits and caters to different learning styles and budgets.
Official Test Maker Resources:
These are generally considered the gold standard because they are created by the same organization that designs and administers the actual test.
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Practice Tests: Most test makers, like the College Board (SAT, AP), ACT, ETS (GRE, TOEFL), and GMAC (GMAT), offer full-length practice tests that mimic the real test format, question types, and difficulty level. These tests are invaluable for familiarizing yourself with the testing environment and assessing your current skill level. They often come with scoring guides and answer explanations.
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Official Study Guides: These guides provide comprehensive overviews of the test content, strategies, and sample questions. They often include practice questions and explanations written by the test developers.
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Online Practice Tools: Some test makers offer online platforms with interactive practice questions, diagnostic quizzes, and personalized study plans. These resources can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and track your progress.
- Scored Essay Services (for tests with writing sections): Some test makers offer services where you can submit essays and receive feedback from trained graders using the official scoring rubric. This is particularly helpful for improving your writing skills and understanding what the test graders are looking for.
Commercial Test Preparation Companies:
These companies offer a range of products and services, including courses, books, online resources, and tutoring.
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Test Preparation Courses: These courses are typically offered in-person or online and provide structured instruction, practice questions, and test-taking strategies. They can be a good option if you prefer a guided learning experience and benefit from the accountability of a set schedule. Popular companies include Kaplan, Princeton Review, Manhattan Prep, Magoosh, and PowerScore. They frequently offer courses targeted to specific score improvements.
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Test Preparation Books: These books provide comprehensive coverage of the test content, strategies, and practice questions. They can be a cost-effective way to study independently. Many of the companies listed above also publish books.
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Online Practice Platforms: Many test preparation companies offer online platforms with a vast library of practice questions, diagnostic quizzes, and personalized study plans. Some platforms even use adaptive technology to adjust the difficulty level of the questions based on your performance.
- Tutoring Services: Many test preparation companies and independent tutors offer personalized instruction tailored to your specific needs and learning style. Tutoring can be a good option if you struggle with certain concepts or want individualized feedback on your progress.
Free Online Resources:
A wealth of free resources are available online to help you prepare for standardized tests.
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Khan Academy: Khan Academy offers free, comprehensive test preparation materials for the SAT, including video lessons, practice questions, and full-length practice tests.
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Test Maker Websites: Many test makers offer free sample questions, study guides, and practice tests on their websites.
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Educational Websites: Websites like Quizlet, Varsity Tutors, and others offer free practice questions, flashcards, and study guides for a variety of standardized tests.
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YouTube Channels: Many YouTube channels offer free test preparation videos, including explanations of concepts, test-taking strategies, and practice question walkthroughs.
- College and University Websites: Some colleges and universities offer free test preparation resources to prospective students.
Tutoring Services:
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Private Tutors: Private tutors offer individualized instruction and can tailor their approach to your specific needs and learning style. You can find private tutors through online platforms, tutoring companies, or referrals from friends or teachers.
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Tutoring Centers: Tutoring centers offer a range of tutoring services, including one-on-one tutoring, small group tutoring, and test preparation courses.
- Online Tutoring Platforms: Online tutoring platforms connect students with tutors from around the world. These platforms offer a convenient and affordable way to access tutoring services.
Study Groups:
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Forming a Study Group: Collaborating with other students preparing for the same test can be a valuable way to share knowledge, practice questions, and motivate each other.
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Classroom Study Groups: If you are taking a test preparation course, you may be able to form a study group with other students in the class.
- Online Forums and Communities: Online forums and communities can provide a platform for connecting with other test takers, sharing study tips, and asking questions.
When selecting resources, consider your learning style, budget, and time constraints. Utilizing a combination of resources from different categories is often the most effective approach. Focus on official test maker materials and then supplement with commercial resources or free options based on your individual needs. Remember to practice consistently and track your progress to ensure you are on track to achieve your desired score.
