Tips to Ace the GRE Quant Section
The only way to avoid despair in the midst of preparation is to be aware of some outstanding tips for acing the GRE Quantitative Reasoning Section. A proper plan of action and methods will undoubtedly be the X factor that allows you to push the boundaries. Here are a few pointers to help you maximise your learning and get the most out of your GRE preparation:
1. Effective Time Management
Each part of the GRE Quant comprises 20 questions that must be solved in 35 minutes. As a result, you have 1.75 minutes on average for each question. You may take less than a minute for easy questions, 1 to 1.5 minutes for medium-level questions, and 2 minutes for difficult questions. For this, attempt to answer at least 13 to 14 questions in the first 20 minutes. Strive to finish the remaining six or seven questions in the next 13 minutes. For difficult questions, you have approximately 2 minutes to answer each one.
On the GRE test screen, there is also a 'Mark' button. When you realise a question requires more time or when you get stuck, click the Mark button. The 'marked' questions are easily apparent on the review screen. After solving the easier questions, you can return to the marked questions and solve them.
2. Develop Endurance and Focus
The GRE is a lengthy exam that requires you to concentrate for approximately four hours. Train your mind to stay focused and consistent for these four hours. The GRE also assesses your ability to work consistently until the finish of the exam. Improve your concentration so you can remain patient and attentive until the completion of the test.
Test creators are skilled at constructing trap answers. You may select an incorrect answer if you make a simple calculation error or misunderstand a word in the question. Read the question attentively and grasp what it is asking you to understand. Always double-check your responses before submitting them.
3. Eliminate the Threat
There is no negative marking policy on the GRE exam for incorrect responses. This means that no questions should go unanswered. Check the screen for any unresolved questions by clicking the 'Review' button. In the last two minutes, make sure you mark a response for all unsolved questions.
If you are not able to solve a problem or get stranded, choose an answer from the remaining options and proceed.
4. Get the Best Out of Scratch Paper
Students usually say that if they had not made a simple calculation error, the solution would have been correct. The GRE exam permits you to make notes on the scratch paper that the testing facility provides. Make it a habit to take notes on important details from questions and to perform calculations on paper, even when practising. Utilise your scratch paper to assess your test and pinpoint any questions that you answered incorrectly.
5. Prepare a Study Plan
You cannot pass the GRE test with flying colours in one sitting. Create a study plan for your GRE preparation, and begin as soon as you can. It would be equivalent to marching into battle without a strategy to succeed if you took the examinations or practised without reviewing your blunders. Keep an eye on how long it takes you to respond to a question. For the concepts in which you are strongest, practise questions at a harder level.
How to Score 170 in GRE Quant?
With the right planning and practice, even average students can score well on both the GRE quantitative section and GRE Subject Test. Here is some pre-testing advice that will help you score 170 in GRE quantitative section:
Gear word problems slowly: The basic principle of the word problem must be correctly grasped because a single word might change its meaning. It is essential to get familiar with English-to-math conversion tables.
Pass the question if required: Each quant part contains 20 questions with a time limit of 35 minutes to answer them. You cannot spend more than 120 seconds on any of the questions. If a question appears to be too difficult, leave it and move on. If you have time, you can go through it again.
Keep your logic and method intact: There may be questions of varying degrees of complexity. You must examine the question and choose the technique that is appropriate. Use the different approaches and methodologies in a logical order to solve all questions objectively.
Practice mock tests: Acquainting yourself with the test pattern and question types is a core part of studying for the GRE quant. Take the mock tests seriously to prepare for the actual exam.
Use calculators sparingly: As most GRE quant questions are designed to be answered in three minutes or less, complex calculations are rare. Use a calculator only when absolutely necessary; otherwise, use mental math.
Study the entire graph or table: The questions of data interpretation may appear time-consuming and complex. They can, however, be properly managed by thoroughly understanding the graph or table. Make a note of the headings, units, and labels so you can spot the data pattern early in the solution. This allows you to reach conclusions more quickly and easily.
The GRE Challenge
The GRE is more than just a test of ability. It assesses applicants' time management abilities as well as their ability to adapt to face adversity. So simply solving a problem is insufficient. The ability to solve it quickly will give you an advantage over the other applicants. With that edge, you could reach the 23% of test-takers who have a GRE Quant score above 170. Surely, flawless time management is not their sole strong suit.
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