Assess your basic skills. In order to begin preparation for the GED, you must have a reading level of approximately eighth grade. Necessary math skills include an understanding of basic computation, fractions and decimals, measurement, data and probability, pre-algebra, algebra and geometry concepts. You must have good command of English, including understanding of parts of speech, sentence and paragraph development and the ability to paraphrase. Social studies and science skills required include the ability to analyze information, understand cause and effect, differentiate between fact and opinion and summarizing. Your knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, earth science and astronomy will be assessed as well. You can use a GED practice test to perform this self-evaluation. These are available in GED preparation books, commercial software, or from online vendors. Some are free of charge.
Choose a course of study to remediate any weak areas that you discover during your self-evaluation. Some communities and local colleges offer GED preparation classes that you can access for a small fee. You can also use GED preparation books, software or websites to improve your skills. The Public Broadcasting Service or local access cable channels in many areas offer GED preparation classes on television. Some cities have literacy organizations that can provide tutors to assist you with GED preparation.
Take a practice test again after you have prepared using some or all of the resources available to you. Practice tests are free to take, and there are no limitations on how many times you can try them. Each attempt will give you information about what areas you still need to study. When you are able to pass each portion of the practice test with at least 70 percent accuracy, you have a chance of success on the GED.
Take the GED Pre-Test. These are shorter and less expensive tests that give an indication of your ability to succeed on the full GED test. In most areas, your GED Pre-Test will be scored immediately so you will receive quick feedback. You will be eligible to register for the five GED tests once you demonstrate your ability to manage the required level of knowledge on the GED Pre-Test.