Preparing for Standardized Tests (GRE, GMAT)

Preparing for Standardized Tests (GRE, GMAT)

The GRE and GMAT are standardized exams required for admission to many graduate programs. The GRE evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, serving as a common requirement for master’s and doctoral programs. The GMAT focuses on analytical writing, integrated reasoning, and quantitative/verbal abilities, specifically targeting applicants to MBA and business-related degrees. Both tests assess critical thinking under timed conditions, demanding focused preparation to achieve competitive scores.

This resource explains how to approach these exams effectively as an online learner. You’ll learn the core differences between the GRE and GMAT, identify which test aligns with your academic goals, and build a study strategy that integrates with remote learning schedules. Key sections break down test structures, scoring systems, and common pitfalls, along with actionable methods to improve time management and problem-solving efficiency.

For online general studies students, balancing test prep with existing coursework requires clear priorities. Structured preparation matters because these exams directly influence admissions outcomes—strong scores can offset gaps in academic history or strengthen scholarship applications. Online learners often juggle multiple responsibilities, making it critical to optimize study time through targeted practice and realistic planning.

The article provides specific tactics for leveraging digital tools, creating adaptive study routines, and simulating test conditions without in-person resources. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier graduate program or seeking to demonstrate academic readiness, systematic preparation ensures you allocate limited time to high-impact areas. By the end, you’ll know how to design a personalized plan that aligns with your strengths, addresses weaknesses, and fits seamlessly into an online learning environment.

Understanding Test Structures and Scoring Systems

Knowing how standardized tests are structured and scored directly impacts your preparation strategy. This section explains the GRE and GMAT formats, breaks down their sections, and clarifies how scoring translates to admissions decisions.

GRE Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing

The GRE General Test has three scored sections:

Verbal Reasoning

• Format: Two 30-minute sections with 20 questions each
• Question types:
  
  • Text Completion (fill in blanks with appropriate words)
  • Reading Comprehension (analyze passages)
  • Sentence Equivalence (select two words that complete a sentence with equivalent meaning)
• Skills tested: Vocabulary, critical reasoning, and ability to synthesize information
• Scoring: 130–170 scale in 1-point increments

Quantitative Reasoning

• Format: Two 35-minute sections with 20 questions each
• Question types:
  
  • Quantitative Comparison (compare two quantities)
  • Problem Solving (algebra, arithmetic, geometry, data analysis)
• Skills tested: Math proficiency up to high-school level, data interpretation
• Scoring: 130–170 scale in 1-point increments

Analytical Writing

• Format: One 60-minute section with two tasks
  
  • Analyze an Issue (30 minutes)
  • Analyze an Argument (30 minutes)
• Skills tested: Logical articulation of ideas, critical thinking, writing clarity
• Scoring: 0–6 scale in half-point increments

The GRE includes an unscored research section or an identified unscored section, which may appear in any order after Analytical Writing.

GMAT Sections: Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing

The GMAT Focus Edition (2023 onward) has four sections:

Quantitative

• Format: 45 minutes, 21 questions
• Question types:
  
  • Problem Solving (algebra, arithmetic, word problems)
  • Data Sufficiency (determine if provided data solves a problem)
• Skills tested: Mathematical reasoning, algebraic concepts
• Scoring: 60–90 scale

Verbal

• Format: 45 minutes, 23 questions
• Question types:
  
  • Reading Comprehension (interpret passages)
  • Critical Reasoning (evaluate arguments)
• Skills tested: Grammar, logical analysis, inference
• Scoring: 60–90 scale

Integrated Reasoning

• Format: 30 minutes, 12 questions
• Question types:
  
  • Multi-Source Reasoning (synthesize data from tables, text, or graphics)
  • Table Analysis (sort tables to find answers)
  • Graphics Interpretation (extract insights from charts)
  • Two-Part Analysis (solve problems with two components)
• Skills tested: Data analysis, multi-step problem solving
• Scoring: 1–8 scale in 1-point increments

Analytical Writing Assessment

• Format: 30-minute essay analyzing an argument
• Skills tested: Persuasive writing, argument deconstruction
• Scoring: 0–6 scale in half-point increments

The GMAT’s Quantitative and Verbal sections are computer-adaptive: question difficulty adjusts based on your performance.

Score Interpretation: Percentiles and University Admission Benchmarks

Test scores gain meaning when compared to percentiles and program averages.

Percentiles

• A percentile indicates the percentage of test-takers you scored higher than.
  
  • Example: A GRE Verbal score of 160 (85th percentile) means you outperformed 85% of test-takers.
• GRE percentiles (approximate):
  
  • Verbal: 162 = 90th percentile
  • Quant: 166 = 88th percentile
  • Writing: 5.0 = 93rd percentile
• GMAT percentiles (approximate):
  
  • Total score 700 = 88th percentile
  • Integrated Reasoning 7 = 82nd percentile

Admission Benchmarks

• GRE: Competitive scores vary by program:
  
  • STEM fields: Quant scores above 160
  • Humanities: Verbal scores above 158
  • Top 20 MBA programs: 320+ combined score (Verbal + Quant)
• GMAT:
  
  • Top 10 business schools: 730+ total score
  • Average MBA programs: 550–650 total score

Always compare your scores to the median scores of admitted students at your target schools. Percentiles shift slightly yearly, but program websites typically publish updated averages.

Creating a Personalized Study Plan

A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works for standardized test preparation. Your study plan must account for your current skill level, target scores, available time, and learning style. Below is a systematic method to build a plan that adapts to your needs.

Assessing Baseline Skills with Diagnostic Tests

Start by taking a full-length, timed practice test that mirrors the format of your exam (GRE or GMAT). This diagnostic test provides three critical insights:

1. Your current scoring range in each section
2. Specific question types or topics where you struggle
3. Time management challenges during the test

After completing the diagnostic:

• Identify low-scoring sections that require focused review
• Note high-scoring areas where minimal practice is needed
• Track how often you guessed on questions or ran out of time

Avoid skipping this step or using partial tests. A full diagnostic under realistic testing conditions exposes weaknesses that shorter quizzes might miss. Treat the results as your roadmap—they show exactly where to allocate study time.

Setting Realistic Score Goals and Timelines

Your target score should align with:

• The median scores of your target graduate programs
• The maximum time you can realistically dedicate to studying each week
• Your diagnostic test results

To set achievable goals:

1. Subtract your diagnostic score from your target score to determine the point gap.
2. Divide the gap by 5–10 points (GRE) or 20–40 points (GMAT) to estimate the number of study weeks required.
3. Assign section-specific targets (e.g., raise Quant score by 8 points, Verbal by 4 points).

If your program requires a 320 GRE and your diagnostic is 300, plan for 8–12 weeks of study. If you have only 4 weeks, adjust expectations or prioritize high-impact sections. Always build in a 1–2 week buffer before test day for final review and unexpected interruptions.

Balancing Content Review with Practice Tests

Content review (memorizing formulas, learning grammar rules) and practice tests serve distinct purposes. The optimal balance depends on your timeline:

• Weeks 1–4 (Foundation Building):

  • Spend 70% of study time on content review
  • Use 30% on timed practice questions (not full tests)
  • Focus on one section per study session

• Weeks 5–8 (Skill Application):

  • Shift to 50% content review, 50% practice tests
  • Take one full-length test every 10–14 days
  • Analyze errors to refine your review topics

• Final 2 Weeks (Test Simulation):

  • Dedicate 80% of time to full-length tests under exam conditions
  • Use remaining 20% for targeted review of persistent weak areas

After each practice test, categorize mistakes:

• Knowledge gaps (e.g., forgetting probability rules) → Review content
• Time management errors (e.g., rushing through passages) → Practice pacing drills
• Question misinterpretations → Rewrite problem statements in your own words

Adjust this framework based on your diagnostic results. If you scored highly in Quant but poorly in Verbal, reallocate time to focus on vocabulary and reading comprehension early in your schedule. If test anxiety is an issue, increase the frequency of timed practice sessions.

Two non-negotiable rules:

1. Never study more than two consecutive hours without a break—cognitive fatigue reduces retention.
2. Always simulate testing conditions (no phone, timed sections, official testing interface) when taking practice exams.

Track progress quantitatively. If your scores plateau for more than two weeks, reassess your methods. Common fixes include switching study materials, joining a study group for accountability, or consulting a tutor for persistent challenges.

Core Strategies for Test Sections

Effective preparation requires focused strategies for each test section. This section breaks down methods to handle question types in GRE and GMAT verbal and quantitative sections, plus techniques for managing time during computer-adaptive tests.

Verbal Section Tactics: Text Completion and Critical Reasoning

Text Completion questions test vocabulary and context analysis. To master these:

• Learn word roots and prefixes to decode unfamiliar terms. For example, "bene-" means good (benign, benevolent).
• Identify clue words in sentences that indicate contrast or agreement. Words like "despite" signal opposing ideas, while "similarly" shows continuation.
• Predict the answer before reviewing choices. This reduces confusion from distractors.

Critical Reasoning assesses logical analysis. Use these methods:

• Break arguments into components: Find the conclusion first, then locate supporting evidence.
• Identify assumption gaps between premises and conclusions. Ask: "What must be true for this argument to hold?"
• Pre-phrase answers for assumption, strengthen, and weaken questions. Match your prediction to options.

For both question types, practice parsing dense texts quickly. Focus on academic journal articles or editorial essays to build speed.

Quantitative Problem-Solving: Algebra, Geometry, and Data Analysis

Algebra frequently appears in both exams. Prioritize:

• Solving linear equations, inequalities, and quadratic forms
• Simplifying expressions using factoring or substitution
• Recognizing patterns in word problems to translate them into equations

Geometry questions often involve:

• Applying formulas for area, volume, and angles (memorize key ones like circle area or triangle properties)
• Using coordinate geometry to calculate slopes or intercepts
• Spotting similar triangles or Pythagorean theorem applications

Data Analysis requires interpreting charts and statistics. Improve by:

• Calculating percentages, ratios, and averages efficiently
• Identifying trends in graphs or scatterplots
• Understanding probability rules and distribution basics

Work backward from answer choices when stuck. Plugging numbers into equations or estimating can save time. For all quantitative sections, memorize common errors like misapplying order of operations or misreading units.

Time Management During Computer-Adaptive Testing

Computer-adaptive tests adjust difficulty based on performance, making pacing critical. Apply these rules:

• Spend 1-2 minutes per verbal question, 2 minutes for quantitative ones. Adjust based on difficulty.
• Flag time-consuming questions immediately. Return to them after completing easier items in the section.
• Prioritize accuracy early. The algorithm weighs initial questions more heavily in scoring.
• Use the review screen to check unanswered or flagged questions in the final 2-3 minutes.

For both exams:

• Simulate test conditions with timed practice tests. Track where delays occur.
• Practice quick elimination in multiple-choice formats. Remove clearly wrong options first.
• Avoid lingering on one question. Wrong answers drain time and morale—guess strategically if needed.

Allocate energy based on strengths. For example, if geometry is weaker, budget extra time for algebra questions to compensate. Adjust strategies as needed during the test.

Focus on these methods to build consistency. Regular practice with targeted feedback will refine your approach across sections.

Essential Tools and Resources for Preparation

Effective preparation for standardized tests requires strategic use of digital tools. This section outlines platforms, apps, and communities that directly support GRE and GMAT study goals. Focus on integrating these resources into your routine to build skills efficiently.

Online Practice Platforms

Official test prep software provides the most accurate simulation of exam conditions.

For the GRE:

• Use the ETS POWERPREP suite. It includes two free full-length practice tests replicating the computer-delivered GRE format.
• The paid POWERPREP PLUS options offer additional tests with detailed score reports showing percentile rankings and question-by-question breakdowns.

For the GMAT:

• The GMAT Official Practice Exams include six computer-adaptive tests with performance analytics.
• All tests feature retired exam questions, ensuring alignment with current content and difficulty levels.

Key strategies:

• Take your first practice test early to establish a baseline score.
• Replicate testing conditions: use a quiet space, timed sessions, and no external aids.
• Analyze mistakes immediately after each test to identify patterns in errors.

Mobile Apps for Vocabulary Building and Math Drills

Use apps to fill knowledge gaps during short study windows.

GRE-focused apps:

• Official GRE Vocabulary Flashcards app: Contains 500+ high-frequency words with definitions and example sentences.
• Math prep apps: Focus on arithmetic, algebra, and geometry drills with instant answer feedback.

GMAT-focused apps:

• Official GMAT Study App: Offers quantitative and verbal practice questions with adaptive difficulty.
• Grammar review apps: Target sentence correction skills through error identification exercises.

General skill-building apps:

• Flashcard apps with spaced repetition algorithms to optimize memorization.
• Mental math trainers to improve calculation speed without a calculator.

Usage tips:

• Dedicate 15-20 minutes daily to app-based practice.
• Combine vocabulary study with reading practice to reinforce context-based word usage.
• Track progress weekly to ensure consistent improvement in weak areas.

Community Forums and Peer Support Groups

Engage with active test-prep communities to resolve doubts and share strategies.

GRE forums:

• Reddit communities focused on GRE prep, where users exchange study plans and test-day tips.
• Dedicated GRE groups discussing time management for analytical writing tasks.

GMAT forums:

• Long-standing GMAT discussion boards analyzing data sufficiency problem patterns.
• Threads comparing success rates of different preparation timelines.

Peer support options:

• Virtual study groups coordinating weekly problem-solving sessions via video calls.
• Accountability partnerships using shared documents to track daily progress.

Effective participation:

• Search existing threads before posting questions to avoid redundancy.
• Share specific problems or concepts you struggle with for targeted advice.
• Limit forum time to 30-60 minutes daily to prevent distraction from active studying.

Critical reminder: All resources should serve your specific needs. Prioritize official materials first, then supplement with community insights and app-based practice. Adjust your toolset every 2-3 weeks based on progress metrics.

12-Week Preparation Roadmap with Milestones

This plan breaks your preparation into three phases: building core skills, refining section-specific strategies, and testing readiness under realistic conditions. Each phase lasts four weeks, with clear benchmarks to track progress.

Weeks 1-4: Foundational Concept Mastery

Start by identifying gaps in your knowledge and establishing a baseline.

1. Take a diagnostic test in Week 1 to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. Allocate 30% more study time to weaker areas.
2. Study quant fundamentals if preparing for GRE/GMAT:
   
   • Arithmetic, algebra, and geometry rules
   • Data interpretation formats (charts, graphs)
   • Problem-solving vs. quantitative comparison strategies (GRE-specific)
3. Build verbal skills through daily practice:
   
   • Learn 15-20 vocabulary terms weekly (GRE focus)
   • Practice identifying sentence logic errors (GMAT sentence correction)
   • Read analytical passages for main arguments and evidence
4. Review analytical writing templates for both tests:
   
   • Outline structures for issue/argument essays (GRE) or argument analysis (GMAT)
   • Write 2 timed essays weekly using official prompts
5. Dedicate 15-20 hours weekly with this split:
   
   • 50% quant, 40% verbal, 10% writing
   • 30-minute daily review of previous errors

Use official guides for practice questions. Track recurring mistakes in a log.

Weeks 5-8: Section-Specific Practice and Error Analysis

Shift focus to timed drills and pattern recognition.

1. Complete 8-10 timed problem sets weekly per section:
   
   • Quant: 20 questions in 35 minutes
   • Verbal: 20 questions in 30 minutes
2. Analyze errors weekly using this framework:
   
   • Content gaps (e.g., misapplied formula)
   • Process errors (e.g., misread question)
   • Timing issues (questions taking >2 minutes)
3. Apply section-specific strategies:
   
   • Quant: Backsolving (plugging in answer choices)
   • Verbal: Elimination tactics for ambiguous answer choices
   • Data Insights (GMAT Focus): Table analysis shortcuts
4. Refine writing efficiency:
   
   • Reduce outline time from 5 minutes to 3 minutes
   • Memorize 3-4 versatile examples for essay evidence
5. Adjust study hours based on error trends:
   
   • Allocate 60% of time to persistently challenging topics
   • Reduce focus on mastered areas to 10% maintenance

Take one half-length practice test weekly under timed conditions.

Weeks 9-12: Full-Length Test Simulations and Final Adjustments

Replicate testing conditions to build stamina and finalize pacing.

1. Take 4-6 full-length practice tests using official or highly realistic third-party materials.
   
   • Alternate between morning/afternoon sessions to adapt to any test time
   • Wear noise-canceling headphones if testing in a noisy environment
2. Simulate test-day rules strictly:
   
   • No unscheduled breaks
   • Use only permitted calculators (GMAT Focus/GRE)
   • Write essays with physical scratch paper
3. Review test results within 24 hours:
   
   • Categorize errors by type (careless vs. knowledge-based)
   • Compare timing per question type using section splits
4. Optimize question prioritization:
   
   • Flag time-intensive questions immediately
   • Practice skipping/revisiting 2-3 questions per section
5. Final week adjustments:
   
   • Reduce study load by 50% to prevent burnout
   • Focus on memorizing key formulas/rules prone to forgetting
   • Take no practice tests in the last 72 hours

In the last three days, confirm test center logistics, gather required ID, and test equipment like calculators. Sleep 7-8 hours nightly to regulate circadian rhythms.

This structure ensures gradual skill development while exposing you to increasing pressure levels. By Week 12, you’ll have addressed core weaknesses, built test-specific reflexes, and minimized surprises on exam day.

Adapting to Computer-Based Testing Environments

Computer-based standardized tests like the GRE and GMAT require specific strategies beyond content knowledge. Success depends on your ability to interact with digital interfaces, manage time under pressure, and adapt to shifting question difficulties. This section provides actionable methods to build familiarity with these elements.

Simulating Test Conditions with Timed Practice

Time pressure significantly impacts performance in computer-based exams. Replicate real testing conditions to build stamina and accuracy:

1. Use official practice software from ETS (GRE) or GMAC (GMAT) to mirror the test interface.
2. Set strict time limits matching the exam’s structure. For example, the GMAT’s 62-minute Quantitative section allows roughly 2 minutes per question.
3. Practice in a quiet, distraction-free room with the same desk setup you’ll use on test day.
4. Track how long you spend on each question type. Identify patterns—for instance, spending too long on data interpretation questions—and adjust your pacing.
5. Take full-length practice tests weekly to build mental endurance. Fatigue often leads to errors in later sections.

Avoid pausing or restarting timed sessions. If you run out of time, review which questions consumed disproportionate attention and refine your approach.

Navigating On-Screen Calculators and Question Formats

The GRE and GMAT restrict calculator use and present questions in formats rarely seen in paper tests. Prepare for these constraints:

• GRE’s on-screen calculator only handles basic arithmetic. Practice manual calculations for percentages, fractions, and exponents to avoid overreliance.
• GMAT disallows calculators entirely. Strengthen mental math skills for quantitative sections.
• Master question formats like drag-and-drop answers, table-based data analysis, and multi-select items. These require precise cursor control and systematic elimination.
• Use the highlight tool to mark key terms in reading passages. Practice toggling between text and questions efficiently.

Spend 10–15 minutes daily interacting with question types unique to your exam. For example, GRE text completion questions demand rapid vocabulary recall, while GMAT integrated reasoning requires synthesizing data from charts and text.

Managing Stress During Adaptive Difficulty Changes

Both exams use adaptive algorithms that adjust question difficulty based on your performance. Anxiety often spikes when questions seem harder, but this can indicate you’re answering correctly. Manage reactions to these shifts:

• Expect difficulty fluctuations. A challenging question cluster likely means you’re performing well, not failing.
• Focus on one question at a time. Overanalyzing previous answers distracts from current tasks.
• Practice controlled breathing techniques. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6—this reduces heart rate during stressful sections.
• Use the “mark for review” feature sparingly. Second-guessing multiple answers disrupts flow and consumes time.

During practice tests, simulate adaptive conditions by alternating between easy and hard questions. This builds resilience against surprise and helps maintain steady focus.

Adapting to computer-based testing requires deliberate, structured practice. Prioritize interface familiarity, time management, and psychological readiness to optimize performance under digital testing constraints.

Key Takeaways

Here's what you need to remember about GRE/GMAT prep:

• Start with a diagnostic test to pinpoint your baseline – 85% of high scorers use this strategy to target weak areas
• Use official practice materials consistently; regular study with these resources raises scores by 15-20%
• Run weekly timed test simulations to build stamina – 72% of test-takers reduce anxiety through repeated practice

Next steps: Take an official diagnostic test today, schedule weekly practice sessions, and simulate exam conditions at least once per week.