Underrated GRE Tips and Tricks for a Better Score

Preparing for the GRE can feel overwhelming, but mastering the test doesn’t have to be a mystery. While common advice like “study regularly” and “practice with official materials” is great, there are plenty of lesser-known strategies that can give you an edge. Here’s a collection of underrated tips and tricks to help you maximize your GRE score and walk into test day with confidence.

1. Master the Art of Skipping Questions

The GRE allows you to skip questions within a section and return to them later. Use this to your advantage.

• Why it works: Spending too much time on one question can eat into time you need for easier questions later.

• Pro tip: Flag questions that seem time-consuming or confusing and revisit them after you’ve completed the rest of the section.

2. Memorize Prefixes, Roots, and Suffixes

Vocabulary is crucial for the GRE verbal section, but instead of relying on rote memorization, focus on understanding word components.

• Why it works: Many GRE words can be deciphered by breaking them into parts. For example, “benevolent” combines “bene” (good) and “volent” (wishing).

• Pro tip: Keep a list of common prefixes, roots, and suffixes handy for quick reference during your prep.

3. Practice Writing Essays Under Time Pressure

The GRE Analytical Writing section is often overlooked during prep, but a strong score here can boost your overall performance.

• Why it works: Time pressure can make organizing your thoughts difficult. Practicing beforehand helps you streamline your essay-writing process.

• Pro tip: Create a template for both Issue and Argument essays, including introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions, to save time on test day.

4. Get Comfortable with the On-Screen Calculator

The GRE Quant section includes an on-screen calculator, but over-reliance can slow you down.

• Why it works: Knowing when to use the calculator and when to solve problems mentally or with estimation saves time.

• Pro tip: Practice using the GRE calculator while prepping to avoid fumbling during the test.

5. Prioritize Data Interpretation Questions

Data interpretation questions on the Quant section often look intimidating, but they tend to be easier than other problem types.

• Why it works: These questions are often straightforward if you carefully analyze the given charts and graphs.

• Pro tip: Familiarize yourself with common graph types like bar charts, pie charts, and line graphs to decode them quickly.

6. Learn to Eliminate Wrong Answers First

The GRE is a multiple-choice test, which means you can improve your odds by eliminating wrong answers before choosing the correct one.

• Why it works: Even if you’re unsure of the right answer, narrowing your options increases your chances of guessing correctly.

• Pro tip: Pay attention to extreme wording in Verbal questions—answers with words like “always” or “never” are often incorrect.

7. Simulate Test Conditions Regularly

Many students practice in comfortable environments, but that’s not what test day feels like.

• Why it works: Simulating real test conditions, like sitting at a desk and limiting distractions, prepares you for the actual testing environment.

• Pro tip: Take at least two full-length practice tests under timed conditions to build stamina and get used to the pacing.

8. Focus on High-Yield Math Topics

Not all Quant topics are equally important. Focus on areas that are heavily tested, such as algebra, arithmetic, and geometry.

• Why it works: Mastering high-frequency topics maximizes your score potential.

• Pro tip: Don’t waste too much time on rare topics like advanced probability unless you’ve already mastered the basics.

9. Don’t Ignore Experimental Sections

The GRE may include an unscored experimental section, but you won’t know which one it is. Treat every section as if it counts.

• Why it works: Slacking off in one section can hurt your focus and momentum for subsequent sections.

• Pro tip: Maintain consistent effort and pacing throughout the test to ensure you perform your best.

10. Take Care of Yourself Before Test Day

Your mental and physical state can significantly impact your performance.

• Why it works: Fatigue and stress can reduce your ability to concentrate and solve problems effectively.

• Pro tip: Get a good night’s sleep, eat a balanced meal, and engage in calming activities like deep breathing or meditation the night before the test.

11. Use the Scratch Paper Wisely

You’ll be provided with scratch paper on test day—use it to your advantage for calculations, outlining essays, and organizing your thoughts.

• Why it works: Writing things down helps prevent careless mistakes and keeps your thinking clear.

• Pro tip: Practice working out problems on paper during your prep to mimic test conditions.

Final Thoughts

Acing the GRE isn’t just about studying hard—it’s about studying smart. By incorporating these underrated tips into your prep routine, you can approach the test with greater confidence and precision. Remember, every point counts, and small adjustments in your strategy can lead to big improvements in your score.