Is the GRE test around the corner and you are wondering how to commit yourself to prepare for the test? If so, then you are in the right place.
Truth be told, it is impossible to cram for the GRE test. A lot is involved in this test and a preparation period of 4 to 12 weeks is recommended. However, the due date may be fast approaching and you have realized that you have not adequately prepared for the test.
While less than one month is not a lot for GRE preparation, it is doable if you plan effectively. The right study plan can mean the difference between achieving an average GRE score and a great GRE score.
In this article, we will explore some tips that help you prepare effectively for your GRE test if you have limited time.
Set a Goal Score
Just like in the real world, goals help us stay motivated at all times. Even if you have just a few weeks to go, you need to set your goal score. This will help you stay motivated and you won’t have any last minutes surprises during the test. Furthermore, setting up a GRE goal score will enable you to create a concrete study plan that will give you an edge during your preparation.
Create a Study Schedule
With limited time to your GRE test time, you are more likely to want to review every topic. However, this is far from possible especially if you have one or two weeks left.
By creating a daily study schedule, you will be able to review the necessary materials that will help you pass your GRE exams. Typically, the study schedule will depend on how much time you have left. If you have only 1 month left for the test,check this guide by Digitalvaults.
For instance, if you have just one or two weeks left, the most practical thing to do is to pay special attention to the general GRE outline. You can also use this time to strengthen your weaknesses and go through the topics that you deem difficult and confusing. Besides, you can choose a smart prep plan like prep course to help with your preparation.
Take Several Practice Tests
Practice makes perfect, and this couldn’t be any truer for GRE. You need to take a practice exam to access yourself to help you know where you stand. Taking one or more practice tests will also help you know the subjects that you struggle with the most.
This way, you can set aside more time to focus on your weak points until they get easier. It is also advisable to focus on GRE vocabulary study, GRE Quantitative section, GRE-specific strategies and GRE verbal section. Since a practice test is a 4 hour long test, you will have a feel of what it is to take a GRE test.
Hone Your Time Management
One advantage of taking practice tests is that it helps you understand and improve your time management. Time management is an important skill when it comes to the GRE test.
If you don’t ace your time-management skill, you are likely to spend more time on the questions. You will also have a difficult time keeping track of time especially in the AWA (writing section).
An effective way of honing your time management skill is by practicing daily. When you do this, you will have an easy time keeping track of time during the actual GRE test.
Use High-Quality Preparation Materials
Examinees can improve their GRE scores by using high-quality prep materials. Quality GRE prep materials like those from ETS are more similar to the real test and they can help you use the remaining time effectively.
Eat Healthy
It is possible to get good GRE scores just by the reason of eating healthy. As the big day approaches, make sure that you fill your plate with healthy meals like vegetables, salads and juices.
Start eating foods that are healthy for your brain and will help you maintain consistent blood sugar levels. During the test day, avoid foods that will make your stomach heavy and make you sleepy.
Get Adequate Sleep
Just like eating healthy, getting adequate sleep is also vital when preparing for your GRE test. This is not the time to sleep late. Make sure that you have a good night’s sleep to relieve your mind from exam fatigue.
Your brain is a muscle that also needs to rest in order to perform optimally. Other than having a good night’s sleep, you can also take power naps during the day to unwind. Also, you can engage in activities that help your brain take a break.
Don’t Panic on the Test Day
While it is natural to want to panic during the test, try as much as possible to remain calm. This is especially important if you have made mistakes or realize that you don’t know answers to most of the questions. When this happens, you are unlikely to complete the test.
Rather than panicking, calm down and complete the rest of the questions. Get the most of your time and don’t worry too much. After all, you can still do another exam if you get a much lower GRE score than you expected.
You need to identify the strategies that work best for you to help you prepare and improve your GRE score. Whatever time you have left to prepare for your GRE test, make sure that you remain positive at all times. This way, you will do as much prep as you can no matter how much time you have left.
