How to Study Analogies for the GRE

Analogies, part of the verbal section of the Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, are comparisons between two entities or sets that require you to identify the relationship that connects them. GRE analogies are presented in the classic analogy format: CAT : KITTEN :: DOG : PUPPY. This analogy can be verbalized as "CAT is to KITTEN as DOG is to PUPPY." In this case, the question stem would read CAT : KITTEN, and the correct answer choice would read DOG : PUPPY. The relationship that connects each component of the analogy is the name of the young and adult animal.

Things You'll Need

  • GRE analogy practice questions
  • Quiet space to study
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Instructions

  1. Practice Makes Perfect

    • 1

      Borrow or buy a book of practice analogy questions from past GRE tests. If you are preparing for the test far in advance of your test date, consider getting more than one to increase the variety of the questions you practice and lessen overlap and repetition.

    • 2

      Beware of gimmicks and advertisements for quick fixes. The best way to master GRE analogies is to practice as many questions as possible. Rote repetition will ensure that you memorize the most frequently used analogy relationships, which will allow you to identify and break down analogy questions in the actual test with greater ease and confidence.

    • 3

      Set aside time as much time as possible to practice analogy questions. If your book or analogy guide includes strategies and tips for addressing analogy questions, read and take notes for an hour during each practice session, then answer practice questions for another hour. If you work from a set of practice questions only, set aside one to two hours two to four times a week to get through as many practice questions as you can.

    • 4

      Don't worry about timing as you begin to practice analogy questions. You will get faster as you continue to practice. Closer to the day of the test, one or two months before, start timing yourself and complete full, timed practice GRE tests to accurately gauge your areas of weakness. In each practice session, complete as many practice questions as you can and keep track of your progress from session to session.

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