* Verbal Reasoning: This section assesses your ability to analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information obtained from it. Topics include:
* Reading Comprehension: Analyzing passages, identifying main ideas, drawing inferences, understanding the author's purpose, and determining the meaning of words and phrases in context.
* Text Completion: Filling in blanks in sentences with the most appropriate words, requiring an understanding of vocabulary, sentence structure, and logical relationships.
* Sentence Equivalence: Selecting two words from a list of six that create sentences with equivalent meanings, demanding precise vocabulary knowledge and nuanced understanding of word relationships.
* Quantitative Reasoning: This section tests your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information, and solve problems using mathematical concepts. Topics include:
* Arithmetic: Operations with integers, fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, percentages, and averages.
* Algebra: Solving equations and inequalities, working with functions and graphs, understanding concepts of exponents and roots.
* Geometry: Understanding properties of shapes (triangles, circles, etc.), areas, volumes, coordinate geometry.
* Data Analysis: Interpreting data presented in tables, charts, and graphs; understanding concepts of mean, median, mode, standard deviation, and probability.
* Analytical Writing: This section assesses your critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It consists of two tasks:
* "Analyze an Issue" task: You'll present your perspective on a given topic, supporting your position with reasons and examples.
* "Analyze an Argument" task: You'll critique a given argument, identifying its strengths and weaknesses and suggesting improvements.
Important Considerations:
* No specific topics are listed in a prescribed order or with specific weights. The GRE tests your ability to apply your knowledge and skills across a range of topics, not rote memorization of facts.
* The GRE website (ets.org) is the official source of information. It provides sample questions, practice tests, and detailed descriptions of each section.
* Preparation materials from various publishers offer practice questions and strategies. However, always rely on the official ETS materials for the most accurate representation of the test.
In short, instead of a syllabus, you should focus on understanding the *types* of questions and the skills tested in each section. The best way to prepare is to practice with official GRE materials and familiarize yourself with the question formats and strategies for success.