According to the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the group that administers the GRE, you have access to free test preparation resources when you register for the GRE. Alternatively, you can simply visit ETS's GRE website to view the materials. ETS advises individuals with internet access to download their "Powerprep Software." The software contains sample Analytical Writing topics, examples of Analytical Writing essays along with grader's comments, test-taking approaches, a math review, test tutorials and two computer-based full-length GRE General Tests.
For $13, as of June 2010, ETS offers a way to prepare for the Analytical Writing portion of the GRE with its "ScoreItNow! Online Writing Practice" service. Through this avenue, you can submit two essays to ETS that they will score and send back to you immediately.
If you register for the paper-based GRE test, you automatically receive a copy of the "GRE General Test Practice Book." If you live in the United States or Canada, you are most likely to register for a computer-based test. However, don't overlook the free book provided by ETS and other hardcopy study guides. Many, including the one from ETS, contain full-length practice tests as well as sample Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning questions and Analytical Writing essay topics.
As of June 2010, ETS publishes a book called "Practicing to Take the GRE General Test." In the United States, it is available for $21 plus shipping. This guide takes free preparation a step further, offering Verbal and Quantitative review sections from seven actual GRE tests. As is the case with any test, you can prepare for free, but you might gain an edge if you have money to spend. A wide range of companies sell GRE preparation guides, some with official sample tests, replicas designed to simulate the GRE and test-taking strategies. If you have extra cash to spare, you might benefit from one of the many GRE prep classes available from companies, such as Kaplan. You can receive one-on-one GRE tutoring or advisement in a classroom setting. Of course, you can always organize a group GRE study session for free with former and prospective take takers.
Cramming for any test, including the GRE poses problems. Jessica DeForest, a Learning Resources Center Testing Specialist at Michigan State University, notes GRE preparations should start early in your academic career. She claims that the best preparation involves taking a wide range of college courses and reading lots of challenging material over the years. This is the best way to build your vocabulary and ready yourself for the GRE. DeForest realizes that this is not always possible. As the test approaches, she concedes that memorization might be your best bet to perform well on the GRE's Verbal Reasoning Section. She provides a vocabulary list that contains words that have a good chance of appearing as analogies and antonyms on future GRE tests. Other test prep materials contain similar lists pertaining to all sections of the test, including Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing.