So has anyone here ever taken the GRE (Graduate Record Examination)? If so, how did it feel? Any tips regarding the exam itself, test prep, testing center, or anything else important? Anything to be especially careful about?

Just want some input from those who have gone through it. Thanks!

 

I've taken it, and it's a long test. The writing section contains fairly simple prompts, like "do you agree/disagree with something and why". The math section is easy, especially if you're an engineer. I think the math section was algebra and simple statistics, but you should still study for the math section. The verbal section had a lot of synonyms/antonyms, definitions, and reading comprehension. You really need to study a lot for the vocabulary. You should pay close attention to the more uncommon definitions because those uncommon definitions are more likely to be used.

I would say pick up some GRE study books, like the Princeton Review GRE study guide. You should spend a lot of time studying. From experience and friends, you should start preparing a few months before taking the test. I didn't sign up for a class, but a class would definitely help.

One last thing, since the test is all computerized, you'll get your math and verbal scores instantly. Your writing scores will come a few weeks later. Remember, take the test seriously because the test isn't cheap. I wish you luck.

 

I almost forget to mention this, but pay extra attention to the first few problems of every section when taking the test. Getting the first few questions of each section correct will get you a higher score. I'm not sure if you know this, but the question difficulty increases/decreases depending on how well you're doing.

I hope this helps you.

 

Are u still going to USF? lol

 

I assumed it would be easy like the SAT, so I did 0.0 hours of prep and went in with a hangover. Ended up not being the smartest move of my career. But this was back in 2002 when there was an 'analytical' section instead of the current 'writing' section, and I had never seen the analytical question formats before. Not bueno with a hangover.

No doubt I could have done better with some prep work. If you can afford it, definitely take a class. GRE scores can make the difference between getting a full ride and stipend or paying your way and being a TA (literally! at least for Physics and Engineering). I lucked out with the former, but it was a stupid gamble.

 

G Ride: Thanks a lot of the tips, man! I really appreciate it! Guess I'll head out to Borders and start doing some "off the shelf" studying this weekend

Marshall: Nah, long gone, though I wish I were still there

shagginwagon: Thanks for the heads up! Standardized testing to me is about as pleasant as a root canal, so I want to make sure I get it right the first time

 

My old room mate took it. Dude studied for friggin ever. Had that computer practice test deal. He kept failing it. I said... dude let me give that a go. I passed... easily. Haaaa.

He ended up passing. He's a PT now. Went to Rutgers to finish his degree.

I don't think he could have done it without the class and self testing. It's worth the investment to insure you pass and do as well as possible.

 

Oh, right on! How does your old roomie like being a PT? Did he have a hard time in PT school like he did with the GRE? And did he do all right as an undergrad and/or was he a decently smart guy in general? Thanks!

 

if you arent opposed to taking the kaplan classes, you should check them out. i studied mildly for it and scored about what i did on the sat's, which wasnt bad, but not ivy league material either .

 

I haven't seen him in years but I know he enjoyed it when I knew him. He was a very good basketball player... offered a pro gig overseas but he went back to school instead.... and got married. Not sure how he did in school but he was a pretty smart dude. Academic all american...

pretty sure he did really well on his GRE in the end.

http://www.retptgroup.com/index.php/...4-bill-pfister

 

Yin: thanks for the suggestion! I've taken a Kaplan's class before, and I think maybe a guidebook and some dedication might get me about as far

OneManArmy: Oh, right on! Thanks for the link

 

If you can take the SAT's, you can take the GRE's. The vocab section is the hardest part and the only part that I recommend actually studying for weeks/months. The second most important part is just simply understanding the format/strategy of the test and the math, like others have said, is not that hard.

 

Thanks Calsoldier! I'll probably go check out some of those practice books at Borders or something this weekend

 

I took my SAT drunk.... should I do that with the GRE too?

 

^ i'd say this is the most practical way to look at it. its ALL vocab. it makes or breaks your score. seriously. and thats right, just know how the test is laid out (eg. get the first questions right in each section!) and double check your math cuz you cant go back. but you still have to be quick, which can be achieved by taking practice tests.