Effective Study Plans for GRE and GMAT Preparation

Understand the Test Structure and Content

Before you start studying, familiarize yourself with the content and format of each test. Understanding what each section entails will help you allocate your study time effectively and focus on areas that need improvement.

GRE Overview: The GRE consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The test assesses your critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and comprehension of complex texts.

GMAT Overview: The GMAT includes four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. It is specifically designed to evaluate your readiness for business school and focuses heavily on analytical and quantitative skills.

Set a Realistic Timeline

Consider your current commitments, such as work, school, or personal responsibilities. Determine how much time you can realistically dedicate to studying each week.

Ideally, give yourself at least three to four months of preparation time. This allows you to study without feeling rushed and gives you the flexibility to review and refine your understanding of complex topics.

A typical study timeline might look like this:

• Months 1-2: Focus on building foundational skills in all test sections. Begin with diagnostic tests to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Month 3: Concentrate on improving weak areas while continuing to practice stronger sections. Increase the frequency of practice tests.
• Month 4: Shift to intensive review and take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. Work on test-taking strategies and time management.

Create a Structured Study Schedule

Dedicate specific times each day to study. Consistency is key, so try to study at the same time every day to build a routine.

Allocate different days or study sessions to focus on different test sections. For example, you could study Verbal Reasoning on Mondays and Wednesdays, Quantitative Reasoning on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Analytical Writing on Fridays.

Include short breaks during your study sessions to avoid burnout. A typical study session might involve 50 minutes of focused work followed by a 10-minute break.

Utilize Quality Study Materials

Start with the official GRE or GMAT guides, which provide an accurate representation of the test format and question types.

Invest in reputable prep books and online resources that offer detailed explanations, practice questions, and strategies. Kaplan, Manhattan Prep, and The Princeton Review are popular choices.

Regularly take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This helps you become familiar with the test’s pacing and identifies areas where you need further practice.

Incorporate Practice Questions and Drills

Use practice questions to reinforce your understanding of specific concepts. Focus on areas where you struggle the most.

Incorporate daily drills that challenge your skills in quantitative reasoning, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. This keeps your mind sharp and helps you build speed and accuracy.

Review and Analyze Your Performance

Keep a study journal where you record your practice test scores, areas of improvement, and strategies that work for you.

After each practice test or problem set, review your mistakes carefully. Understand why you got a question wrong and how you can avoid similar mistakes in the future.

Based on your performance analysis, adjust your study plan to allocate more time to areas that need improvement.

Develop Test-Taking Strategies

Practice managing your time effectively during the test. Learn to quickly identify and skip questions that are too time-consuming, and return to them if time permits.

On both the GRE and GMAT, there’s no penalty for guessing, so never leave a question unanswered. Develop strategies for educated guessing when you’re unsure of the correct answer.

Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization, to help manage stress during the test.

Simulate Test Conditions

At least once a week during the final month of your preparation, take a full-length practice test under timed conditions. This helps you build stamina and get accustomed to the test format.

Simulate the test environment as closely as possible. Take your practice tests in a quiet space, free from distractions, to mimic the conditions you’ll face on test day.

Final Review and Preparation

In the final weeks leading up to the test, prioritize reviewing the areas where you’re still struggling.

The day before the test, avoid heavy studying. Instead, do a light review of key concepts and get plenty of rest.

Make sure you know what to bring on test day, including your ID, test confirmation, and any permitted materials.

Stay Motivated and Positive

Break your study plan into small, achievable goals. Celebrate each milestone to keep yourself motivated.

Maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation. Remember that consistent effort and dedication will lead to improvement.