How to Study for the GRE: AI Tools & Strategies for 2026
The GRE is the most widely accepted graduate school admissions test, required by thousands of programs worldwide. In 2026, AI-powered study tools are changing how students prepare for this high-stakes exam. This comprehensive guide covers all three GRE sections, proven study strategies, a 2-4 month study timeline, and the best AI apps to help you hit your target score.
Written by Sarah Mitchell
Education Tech Researcher
Quick GRE Study Summary
- Study Timeline: 2-4 months (200-300 hours total)
- Best AI for Content Review: LectureScribe (vocab & concept flashcard automation)
- Best for Spaced Repetition: Anki (vocabulary mastery via SRS)
- Best for Practice Questions: Magoosh, Manhattan Prep, ETS Official
- Target Score: 320+ combined for competitive programs, 160+ per section
- Key Strategy: Vocabulary + math fundamentals first, then heavy practice and timed drilling
Table of Contents
Introduction: The GRE in 2026
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is accepted by thousands of graduate and business school programs worldwide. In September 2023, ETS shortened the GRE to under two hours (from nearly four), making it significantly more manageable. The 2026 version of the GRE retains this shorter format, with three scored sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
Despite some programs going test-optional during the pandemic era, the GRE has made a strong comeback. Top programs at Stanford, MIT, Harvard, and others have reinstated GRE requirements or strongly recommend submission. A strong GRE score remains one of the most impactful ways to strengthen a graduate school application, especially for candidates with less-than-perfect GPAs.
The good news is that AI-powered study tools are making GRE preparation more efficient than ever. Vocabulary acquisition, the single biggest challenge for most Verbal Reasoning preparation, can be accelerated dramatically with spaced repetition and AI-generated flashcards. Quantitative concept review can be personalized to your specific weak areas. And writing feedback can be instantaneous rather than waiting days for a tutor's response.
The Shorter GRE: What Changed
The current GRE format is approximately 1 hour 58 minutes (down from 3 hours 45 minutes). Key changes include: only one Verbal section (27 questions, 41 minutes), one Quantitative section (27 questions, 47 minutes), and one Analytical Writing task (one "Analyze an Issue" essay, 30 minutes). The unscored/research sections have been eliminated. Scores are still reported on the same 130-170 scale for Verbal and Quant, and 0-6 for Writing.
Understanding the Three GRE Sections
The GRE measures skills that have been developed over a long period and are not related to any specific field of study. Each section tests distinct abilities critical for success in graduate-level work.
Verbal Reasoning
Measures ability to analyze written material and synthesize information
- - 27 questions, 41 minutes
- - Reading Comprehension passages
- - Text Completion (vocabulary in context)
- - Sentence Equivalence (synonym pairs)
- - Score range: 130-170
Quantitative Reasoning
Measures problem-solving ability using basic math concepts
- - 27 questions, 47 minutes
- - Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis
- - Quantitative Comparison questions
- - Problem Solving (multiple choice + numeric entry)
- - Score range: 130-170
Analytical Writing
Measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills
- - 1 essay task, 30 minutes
- - "Analyze an Issue" prompt
- - Scored holistically by trained readers + AI
- - Tests argument construction and evidence use
- - Score range: 0-6 (half-point increments)
Pro Tip: Know Your Target Program's Priorities
Different programs weight GRE sections differently. STEM programs (engineering, computer science, physics) typically prioritize Quantitative scores, while humanities and social science programs value Verbal scores more heavily. Business programs (MBA) often look at both equally. Research your target programs' average admitted scores before setting your study priorities.
GRE Score Targets by Program Type
Understanding what score you need is critical for planning your preparation. GRE scores range from 130-170 for Verbal and Quantitative (in 1-point increments) and 0-6 for Analytical Writing (in half-point increments). Here are typical score expectations:
| Program Type | Verbal Target | Quant Target | Combined | AWA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top 10 STEM (MIT, Stanford, Caltech) | 155-162 | 165-170 | 325+ | 4.0+ |
| Top 20 Humanities (Harvard, Yale, Princeton) | 163-170 | 155-162 | 320+ | 5.0+ |
| Top MBA Programs (HBS, Wharton, Booth) | 160-165 | 160-167 | 325+ | 4.5+ |
| Competitive Programs (Top 50) | 157-163 | 158-165 | 315-320 | 4.0+ |
| Good Programs (Top 100) | 153-158 | 153-160 | 308-315 | 3.5+ |
Percentile Context
The average GRE Verbal score is approximately 151 (50th percentile) and the average Quantitative score is approximately 154 (43rd percentile, lower because STEM applicants skew the curve higher). A score of 160 on Verbal is approximately the 85th percentile, while 160 on Quantitative is approximately the 73rd percentile. These percentiles matter because admissions committees compare you against the full applicant pool.
Verbal Reasoning: Strategy & AI Tools
Verbal Reasoning is where most GRE test-takers see the biggest score improvement potential. The section combines vocabulary-dependent questions (Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence) with passage-based reading comprehension. For many students, especially non-native English speakers or STEM-focused applicants, this section presents the greatest challenge.
Question Type Breakdown
Reading Comprehension (~50%)
- - Short passages (1 paragraph) and long passages (2-4 paragraphs)
- - Multiple choice: select one or multiple answers
- - "Select in passage" questions
- - Tests: main idea, inference, author tone, logical structure
- - Topics: humanities, social sciences, natural sciences
Text Completion (~30%)
- - 1-3 blanks per question
- - Must fill ALL blanks correctly (no partial credit)
- - Tests vocabulary AND contextual reasoning
- - Single-blank: 5 choices; multi-blank: 3 choices per blank
- - Often tests contrast, cause-effect, and restatement clues
Sentence Equivalence (~20%)
- - Select TWO answers that complete the sentence
- - Both answers must create sentences with same meaning
- - Must select both correct to get credit
- - Tests synonym knowledge and contextual meaning
- - Strategy: look for word pairs first, then check context
AI-Powered Verbal Reasoning Strategy
Build Your Vocabulary Foundation with AI Flashcards
Vocabulary is the foundation of Verbal Reasoning. Upload GRE word lists and prep materials to LectureScribe's flashcard maker to automatically generate contextual flashcards with definitions, example sentences, and related words. This saves dozens of hours compared to manual card creation.
Learn Words in Context, Not Isolation
The GRE tests vocabulary in context, not pure definition recall. When learning new words, always study example sentences. Pay attention to word charge (positive, negative, neutral) and common usage patterns. Words like "equivocal," "exacerbate," and "recondite" are rarely tested in isolation -- you need to understand their nuanced usage.
Master the Structural Reading Strategy
For Reading Comprehension, read for structure rather than detail. Identify the author's main claim, the role of each paragraph, and the evidence used. Mark opinion words and contrast signals. Most questions can be answered by understanding the passage's logical architecture without memorizing specific details.
Practice the "Predict Before You Peek" Method
For Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence, always predict the answer before looking at choices. Read the sentence, identify context clues (contrast words like "however," cause words like "because," restatement signals like "in other words"), and predict what type of word fits. Then match your prediction to the answer choices. This prevents trap answers from misleading you.
Quantitative Reasoning: Strategy & AI Tools
GRE Quantitative Reasoning tests math concepts at approximately the high school level, but applies them in unfamiliar and sometimes tricky ways. The difficulty is not in the math itself but in the problem-solving approach required. Most questions can be solved with arithmetic, basic algebra, geometry, and data analysis -- no calculus or advanced math is required.
Content Breakdown
Arithmetic (~25%)
- - Properties of integers (even/odd, primes, divisibility)
- - Fractions, decimals, and percentages
- - Ratios, rates, and proportions
- - Exponents and roots
- - Number lines and ordering
Algebra (~25%)
- - Linear and quadratic equations
- - Inequalities and absolute value
- - Functions and their graphs
- - Word problems (rate, work, mixture)
- - Coordinate geometry basics
Geometry (~25%)
- - Lines, angles, triangles (30-60-90, 45-45-90)
- - Circles (area, circumference, arc length)
- - Quadrilaterals and polygons
- - 3-D figures (volume, surface area)
- - Coordinate geometry
Data Analysis (~25%)
- - Mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation
- - Probability (independent and conditional events)
- - Counting methods (permutations, combinations)
- - Data interpretation from charts and graphs
- - Normal distribution basics
AI-Powered Quant Strategy
Diagnose Your Weak Areas First
Take an ETS diagnostic or Magoosh diagnostic to identify specific weaknesses. Many students think they're "bad at math" when they actually just have gaps in specific areas like probability or geometry. Focus your study time on these gaps rather than reviewing everything equally.
Master Quantitative Comparison Strategy
QC questions ask you to compare two quantities. The key strategy: try plugging in values. Test positives, negatives, zero, fractions, and large numbers. If the comparison flips, the answer is "cannot be determined." This approach eliminates guessing and works on the hardest QC problems.
Memorize Key Formulas with Spaced Repetition
Use LectureScribe's flashcard maker to generate cards for all essential GRE math formulas: special right triangles, circle formulas, permutation/combination formulas, probability rules, and statistics formulas. Review daily with Anki until recall is instantaneous.
Use Back-Solving and Estimation
On multiple-choice Quant questions, you can often work backward from the answers or estimate to eliminate choices. On numeric entry questions, verify your answer makes sense (e.g., a probability must be between 0 and 1, a percentage increase must be positive). These strategies save time and catch careless errors.
Quant Timing Strategy
With 27 questions in 47 minutes, you have approximately 1 minute 45 seconds per question. However, easier questions should take under a minute, leaving more time for harder ones. If a question stumps you after 2 minutes, mark it and move on. The GRE allows you to go back to any question within a section, so use your time strategically.
Analytical Writing: Strategy & AI Tools
The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) measures your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and support them with relevant reasons and examples. Since the 2023 update, there is only one task: "Analyze an Issue." While many students neglect this section, a strong AWA score (4.5+) demonstrates critical thinking ability that admissions committees value, particularly for programs requiring research papers and dissertations.
AWA Scoring Rubric
Outstanding: Insightful analysis, compelling examples, well-organized, virtually error-free prose
Strong: Thoughtful analysis, appropriate examples, well-organized, minor errors only
Adequate: Competent analysis, relevant examples, generally organized, some errors
Limited: Some analysis but weak development, vague examples, organizational issues
AI-Powered AWA Strategy
Use a Consistent Essay Template
Develop a 5-paragraph structure you can apply to any issue prompt: (1) Introduction with thesis acknowledging complexity, (2) First supporting argument with concrete example, (3) Second supporting argument with different example, (4) Counterargument acknowledgment and rebuttal, (5) Conclusion restating thesis with nuance. Practice this template until it's automatic.
Build an Example Bank
Prepare 10-15 versatile examples from history, science, literature, business, and current events that can be adapted to many different issue prompts. Use LectureScribe's study guide maker to organize these into a quick-reference document you can review before test day.
Practice with AI Feedback
Write at least 8-10 timed practice essays using ETS's published pool of Issue topics (available free on ets.org). Use AI tools to analyze your essays for logical structure, argument strength, vocabulary sophistication, and grammatical accuracy. This provides instant feedback that would otherwise require an expensive tutor.
Aim for 500+ Words with Zero Major Errors
Research shows that higher-scoring essays tend to be longer (500-600 words in 30 minutes) and have fewer grammatical errors. Practice typing speed if you're slow. Leave 3-4 minutes at the end to proofread for subject-verb agreement, pronoun clarity, and run-on sentences.
Vocabulary Mastery with AI: The Key to GRE Verbal
Vocabulary knowledge is the single biggest predictor of GRE Verbal success. Students who master 800-1200 high-frequency GRE words typically score 5-8 points higher than those who try to rely on reading comprehension alone. The challenge is that GRE vocabulary consists of uncommon, academic words that most people don't use in daily conversation.
LectureScribe + Anki: The Perfect Vocabulary Workflow
- 1Upload vocabulary lists to LectureScribe. It generates contextual flashcards with definitions, example sentences, synonyms, and word roots automatically.
- 2Export to Anki format and import into your GRE vocabulary deck. Each card includes rich context for deeper learning.
- 3Learn 20-30 new words daily using Anki's spaced repetition. The algorithm ensures you review words just before you'd forget them.
- 4Use the words in practice. Write sentences using new words, group synonyms together, and identify the words in your GRE practice passages.
High-Priority GRE Word Categories
Words Describing Criticism/Praise
- - Laudatory, panegyric, encomium (praise)
- - Censure, castigate, excoriation (criticism)
- - Equivocal, ambivalent, vacillate (mixed)
- - Disinterested, impartial, objective (neutral)
Words Describing Quantity/Degree
- - Copious, profuse, surfeit (excessive)
- - Dearth, paucity, scant (insufficient)
- - Moderate, temperate, measured (balanced)
- - Exacerbate, aggravate, intensify (increase)
Words Describing Clarity/Obscurity
- - Lucid, pellucid, perspicuous (clear)
- - Abstruse, recondite, esoteric (obscure)
- - Obfuscate, occlude, opaque (to make unclear)
- - Elucidate, explicate, delineate (to clarify)
Words Describing Change/Stability
- - Mutable, protean, mercurial (changeable)
- - Immutable, intransigent, steadfast (unchanging)
- - Ephemeral, transient, evanescent (temporary)
- - Perennial, enduring, perpetual (lasting)
Word Roots Strategy
Learning word roots, prefixes, and suffixes is a force multiplier for vocabulary. Knowing that "bene" means good helps you decode "benevolent," "benefactor," and "benediction" even if you've never seen them before. Master the top 100 Latin and Greek roots to decode hundreds of unfamiliar words on test day. Upload a roots list to LectureScribe to generate flashcards covering root + meaning + 3-4 example words.
2-4 Month GRE Study Timeline with AI Integration
The optimal GRE study timeline depends on your baseline scores, target programs, and available study time. Below are detailed plans for both timelines, optimized with AI tools.
4-Month Study Plan (Recommended)
Best for students who need significant Verbal improvement or are balancing work/school. Requires 12-18 hours/week.
Month 1: Foundation Building
- - Take an ETS PowerPrep diagnostic to establish baseline scores
- - Begin vocabulary acquisition: upload GRE word lists to LectureScribe, generate flashcards
- - Start Anki reviews: 20-30 new words/day, review all previous words
- - Review math fundamentals (Khan Academy GRE math or Manhattan Prep guide)
- - Read one challenging article daily (The Atlantic, The Economist, academic journals)
- - Write 2 timed practice essays
Month 2: Strategy Development
- - Continue Anki vocabulary reviews (300+ card reviews/day)
- - Begin Magoosh or Manhattan Prep practice questions (20-30/day)
- - Learn question-type-specific strategies for Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence
- - Practice Quantitative Comparison strategies (plugging in, testing edge cases)
- - Take first full practice test (ETS PowerPrep 2)
- - Review every missed question and create targeted flashcards in LectureScribe
Month 3: Intensive Practice
- - Continue vocabulary reviews (you should know 600+ words now)
- - Complete 40-50 practice questions daily across both sections
- - Take 2 full-length practice tests under real conditions
- - Focus on weak areas identified by practice test analytics
- - Practice advanced reading comprehension (long passages, multi-answer)
- - Write 3-4 timed practice essays using ETS topic pool
Month 4: Test Simulation & Refinement
- - Take 1-2 full-length tests per week (ETS PowerPrep, Manhattan Prep)
- - Thoroughly review every full-length (1-2 hours per test)
- - Maintain vocabulary reviews (focus on words you still struggle with)
- - Review all GRE math formulas with flashcards
- - Practice timing strategies for each section
- - Final 3-5 days: light review, rest, and confidence building
2-Month Intensive Plan
For students with strong baselines (315+ diagnostic) who need a focused score boost. Requires 25-35 hours/week.
Weeks 1-3: Rapid Foundation + Strategy
- - Take diagnostic, identify specific weak areas
- - Learn 40-50 vocabulary words/day using LectureScribe flashcards + Anki
- - Complete math concept review in 2 weeks (focus only on weak topics)
- - Learn all question-type strategies for Verbal and Quant
- - Begin practice questions immediately (30-40/day)
- - Take first full-length at end of week 3
Weeks 4-6: Heavy Practice Phase
- - Complete 50-70 practice questions daily
- - Maintain Anki vocabulary reviews (400+ reviews/day)
- - Take 2 full-length practice tests
- - Deep review of every missed question
- - Practice 4-5 timed essays with AI feedback
Weeks 7-8: Test Simulation
- - Take 2-3 full-length tests per week
- - Focus exclusively on weak areas between tests
- - Final vocabulary push on hardest remaining words
- - Taper intensity 2-3 days before test day
AI Time Savings for GRE Prep
Using AI tools like LectureScribe, students report saving approximately: 20-30 hours on vocabulary flashcard creation (the biggest time sink in GRE prep), 10-15 hours on math formula and concept review, and 5-10 hours on essay preparation. This extra 35-55 hours can be redirected to practice questions and full-length tests, which have the highest correlation with score improvement.
Best AI Apps for GRE Prep in 2026
The right combination of tools can dramatically accelerate your GRE preparation. Here are the best options for each aspect of studying:
LectureScribe
AI-Powered Flashcard Generation & Study Material Creation
LectureScribe is the ideal companion for GRE vocabulary building and concept review. Upload your vocabulary lists, prep book notes, or recorded review sessions and get study-ready flashcards, organized summaries, and study guides in minutes. The AI generates contextual flashcards with definitions, example sentences, and related words -- exactly what you need for GRE Verbal mastery.
Upload a word list, get contextual flashcards with definitions, synonyms, example sentences, and word roots. Export to Anki.
Generate organized study guides for GRE math concepts from your textbook notes or Khan Academy review sessions.
Works with PDFs, audio recordings, videos, and even photos of handwritten notes. Process entire prep books into study materials.
Access community-created GRE flashcard sets covering high-frequency vocabulary, math formulas, and essay templates.
Pricing
1 Free Upload | $9.99/month
Anki
Gold standard spaced repetition for GRE vocabulary mastery
Anki's spaced repetition algorithm is the most effective way to memorize 800-1200 GRE vocabulary words. The system tracks which words you know well and which you struggle with, showing difficult words more frequently. Combined with LectureScribe's automatic contextual flashcard generation, you can build and master a comprehensive GRE vocabulary in 8-12 weeks.
Reviews are scheduled at optimal intervals to maximize long-term retention of GRE vocabulary.
Popular community decks: Magoosh GRE Vocabulary, Manhattan Prep 1000, Barron's 333. Download and start immediately.
Interface is dated and requires setup time. LectureScribe's flashcard export simplifies the card creation process significantly.
Pricing
Free (desktop) | iOS: $25 one-time
Magoosh GRE
Affordable, comprehensive GRE prep with video explanations
Magoosh is widely regarded as the best value in GRE prep. It offers 1,300+ practice questions with video explanations, 250+ lesson videos, and a built-in vocabulary flashcard app. Their questions closely mimic GRE difficulty, and the video explanations for every question make self-study effective.
Full prep course at a fraction of competitor prices. 5-point score improvement guarantee.
Learn from detailed video walkthroughs, not just text explanations.
1,000+ GRE words organized by difficulty with contextual definitions.
Pricing
$149 (1 month) | $179 (6 months)
Manhattan Prep GRE
Premium GRE prep with strategy-focused approach
Manhattan Prep is known for its strategy-heavy approach and challenging practice questions. Their 5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems is one of the most popular GRE resources. Their full course includes detailed strategy guides, 6 full-length practice tests, and expert instructor access. Best for students targeting 320+ who want advanced strategies.
Teaches systematic approaches to each question type, not just content review.
High-quality, representative practice exams that closely mirror test day conditions.
Full course is expensive. Consider the books alone if on a budget.
Pricing
$99-1,599 (books to full course)
Recommended GRE AI Stack
For optimal GRE prep, combine these tools:
- 1LectureScribe - Generate vocabulary flashcards and study guides ($9.99/mo)
- 2Anki - Master vocabulary with spaced repetition (Free)
- 3Magoosh - Practice questions with video explanations ($149-179)
- 4ETS Official Materials - PowerPrep practice tests (Free + $40 for Plus)
Total investment: ~$400 for 4 months. Compare to private tutoring at $100-200/hour or traditional prep courses at $1,000-2,000+.
Common GRE Study Mistakes to Avoid
After analyzing thousands of GRE score reports and student feedback, these are the most common mistakes that prevent students from hitting their target scores:
Memorizing Definitions Without Context
The GRE never asks "what does this word mean?" directly. It tests vocabulary through contextual usage. Simply memorizing "quotidian = daily" won't help if you can't recognize how it functions in a Text Completion sentence. Always learn words with example sentences and practice identifying them in reading passages.
Over-Studying Math Content, Under-Practicing Strategy
GRE Quant content is high school-level math. The difficulty comes from tricky problem design, not advanced concepts. Students who spend weeks re-learning calculus or trigonometry are wasting time. Focus on practicing GRE-style questions and mastering strategies like plugging in numbers, back-solving, and estimation.
Ignoring the Analytical Writing Section
While AWA scores are less critical than Verbal/Quant for most programs, a very low score (below 3.5) can raise red flags, especially for writing-intensive programs. Spending just 5-8 hours on AWA preparation can ensure a solid 4.0+ score. Don't leave free points on the table.
Not Taking Enough Timed Practice Tests
Practicing individual questions is important, but test-day performance requires stamina and time management. Take at least 4-5 full-length practice tests under real conditions (timed, no breaks beyond what's allowed, quiet environment). Your score on ETS PowerPrep tests is the best predictor of your actual score.
Starting with the Hardest Material
Jumping into 170-level GRE questions from day one leads to frustration and misconceptions about the test. Start with easy and medium questions to build confidence and learn fundamental strategies. Progress to harder material only after you're scoring consistently on medium-difficulty questions.
Score Improvement Strategies: From 300 to 320+
GRE score improvement follows predictable patterns based on your starting level. Here's how to systematically raise your score:
From 290-305 to 310-315
Focus: Fundamental knowledge gaps, especially in vocabulary and basic math.
- - Learn the 500 highest-frequency GRE vocabulary words using LectureScribe + Anki
- - Review all basic math concepts (fractions, percentages, geometry formulas)
- - Practice easy-to-medium difficulty questions to build confidence
- - Focus on accuracy over speed
- - Use LectureScribe's study library for pre-made GRE materials
From 305-315 to 315-322
Focus: Strategy refinement and tackling medium-to-hard questions.
- - Expand vocabulary to 800+ words with focus on secondary meanings
- - Master GRE-specific strategies for each question type
- - Practice heavy question volume (500+ questions per section)
- - Improve time management with timed section practice
- - Analyze every error: knowledge gap, careless mistake, or strategy failure?
From 315-322 to 325+
Focus: Eliminating careless errors and mastering the hardest question types.
- - Master 1000+ vocabulary words including rare but testable terms
- - Perfect timing: answer easy questions quickly to save time for hard ones
- - Practice only hard and very hard questions
- - Develop a system for checking work (especially on Quant numeric entry)
- - Take full-length tests exclusively from ETS PowerPrep for accurate prediction
Average GRE Score Improvements
With 2-4 months of dedicated study: students improve an average of 7-12 points combined (Verbal + Quant). Students using AI tools and following structured plans can improve 12-20+ points combined. Verbal improvements of 5-10 points are common with aggressive vocabulary study. Quant improvements of 5-8 points are typical with focused math practice.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRE Prep
How long should I study for the GRE?
Most successful test-takers study for 2-4 months, dedicating 200-300 hours total. A focused 2-month plan requires 25-35 hours per week and suits students with strong quantitative and verbal foundations. A 4-month plan works well for students balancing other commitments, requiring 12-18 hours weekly. AI tools like LectureScribe can accelerate vocabulary and concept review, making either timeline more achievable.
What is a good GRE score for graduate school?
A competitive GRE score depends on your target program. For top-tier programs (top 20), aim for 320+ combined (160+ on each section). For STEM programs, Quantitative scores of 165+ are often expected. For humanities and social sciences, Verbal scores of 160+ carry more weight. Average scores for admitted students at competitive programs range from 310-325 combined.
What is the best AI app for GRE prep in 2026?
LectureScribe is excellent for GRE content review and vocabulary building, automatically generating flashcards from study materials, lecture recordings, and vocabulary lists. Anki is the gold standard for spaced repetition of GRE vocabulary. Magoosh and Manhattan Prep provide the best adaptive practice questions and video explanations. A combination of these tools creates the most effective GRE prep stack.
Is the GRE harder than the GMAT?
The GRE and GMAT test different skills. The GRE has a broader vocabulary focus and covers more geometry, while the GMAT emphasizes data analysis and integrated reasoning. Most students find GRE Verbal harder due to obscure vocabulary, while GMAT Quantitative is considered more challenging due to data sufficiency questions. Many MBA programs now accept both tests, so choose based on your strengths.
How many GRE vocabulary words should I learn?
Aim to master 800-1200 high-frequency GRE vocabulary words. The most efficient approach targets the 500 most commonly tested words first, then expands to 1000+. Use spaced repetition tools like Anki with flashcards generated from LectureScribe to learn 20-30 new words daily while reviewing previously learned words. Focus on understanding word roots, prefixes, and suffixes to decode unfamiliar words on test day.
Should I take the GRE at home or at a test center?
Both options use the same test format and scoring. At-home testing offers convenience and a familiar environment, but requires a quiet, private room with stable internet and a working webcam. Test centers provide a controlled environment free from home distractions. Most students report similar scores regardless of testing location. Choose based on your comfort level and where you perform best on practice tests.
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