The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a widely accepted test for students and professionals pursuing higher education globally. Understanding its structure is essential for effective preparation. The GRE tests skills like analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning, and each section has specific tasks and time allocations. In this guide, we’ll break down the sections, timing, and focus areas to help you plan your preparation and excel on the test day.
Understanding the GRE Exam Duration
The total duration of the GRE exam is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Here’s how the time is allocated across different sections:
GRE Exam Duration Breakdown
| Section | Number of Tasks/Questions | Time Allocation | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Analytical Writing
|
2 tasks
|
60 minutes (30 min/task)
|
Issue Task & Argument Task
|
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
2 sections (20 questions)
|
60 minutes (30 min/section)
|
Reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence
|
|
Quantitative Reasoning
|
2 sections (20 questions)
|
70 minutes (35 min/section)
|
Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis
|
|
Unscored/Research Section
|
1 section
|
30–35 minutes
|
Could be Verbal or Quantitative (not scored)
|
Key Sections in the GRE Exam
1. Analytical Writing Section
This section evaluates your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas effectively through essays.
- Format: 2 tasks (30 minutes each)
- Analyze an Issue: Write an essay presenting your perspective on a given topic with reasons and examples.
- Analyze an Argument: Evaluate the reasoning of a given argument and critique its logic.
- Key Focus Areas:
- Logical reasoning
- Clear and structured writing
- Ability to analyze and present ideas effectively
- Preparation Tips:
- Practice writing essays within a 30-minute time limit.
- Use sample topics to simulate test conditions.
- Focus on structuring essays with clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.
2. Verbal Reasoning Section
This section measures your reading comprehension and ability to analyze and evaluate written material.
- Format: 2 sections, each with 20 questions (30 minutes per section)
- Reading Comprehension
- Text Completion
- Sentence Equivalence
- Key Focus Areas:
- Understanding complex texts
- Vocabulary and context-based reasoning
- Identifying relationships between words and ideas
- Preparation Tips:
- Expand your vocabulary with GRE word lists.
- Practice reading academic passages and summarizing their main points.
- Solve questions from official GRE practice materials to familiarize yourself with the format.
3. Quantitative Reasoning Section
The Quantitative Reasoning section evaluates your problem-solving and mathematical skills.
- Format: 2 sections, each with 20 questions (35 minutes per section)
- Multiple-choice questions
- Numeric entry questions
- Quantitative comparison questions
- Key Focus Areas:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Data analysis
- Preparation Tips:
- Revise fundamental math concepts regularly.
- Solve practice problems to improve speed and accuracy.
- Learn to use the on-screen calculator efficiently during the test.
4. Unscored/Research Section
- This section is either Verbal or Quantitative, and it does not count toward your final score.
- Appears randomly and is used by ETS to test new questions.
Breaks During the GRE
- A 10-minute break is provided after the third section (either Verbal or Quantitative).
- There’s also a 1-minute break between each section to help you refresh and refocus.
- Use these breaks wisely to reset your mind and prepare for the next section.
Test-Taking Strategies for Each Section
Analytical Writing
- Spend 5 minutes planning your essay before you start writing.
- Develop clear arguments and support them with examples.
- Proofread your essay in the last couple of minutes to catch errors.
Verbal Reasoning
- Skim passages to grasp the main idea before diving into questions.
- Eliminate incorrect options to improve your chances of choosing the right answer.
- Use context clues to deduce the meaning of unfamiliar words.
Quantitative Reasoning
- Prioritize easy questions first to save time for tougher ones.
- Double-check calculations for numeric entry problems.
- Use logical reasoning to solve complex problems efficiently.
Why Understanding the GRE Sections Matters
- Familiarizing yourself with the test structure helps reduce anxiety on test day.
- Understanding timing and focus areas allows you to prepare more effectively.
- A strategic study plan tailored to each section improves your overall score potential.
How to Prepare for the GRE
1. Create a Study Plan
Divide your preparation time equally across sections while focusing on weaker areas.
2. Use Official GRE Materials
Practice using ETS-provided resources to get accustomed to the test format and difficulty level.
3. Take Practice Tests
Simulate the actual test environment to build endurance and improve time management.
4. Join a Study Group or Course
Collaborate with peers or enroll in GRE prep courses for structured guidance.
Conclusion
Breaking down the GRE exam into its sections and understanding their timing and focus areas is crucial for effective preparation. With the right study strategies and consistent practice, you can tackle each section confidently and achieve your desired score. Remember, preparation is key to success in the GRE.