Make sure that you have adequate computer skills so as to successfully take the exam. The GRE has a time limit and is typically administered on the computer. During that time, you need to be focusing on the content, not on how to work the computer.
Become familiar with the format of the GRE exam, which consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning (reading comprehension), Quantitative Reasoning (math) and Analytical Writing (critical thinking and essay writing). The test questions will ask you to select one or more multiple choice answers in the Verbal Reasoning section, will ask you to select one or more multiple-choice answers and require you to calculate and enter numbers in the Quantitative Reasoning section and write critical essays in the Analytical Writing section. Read all the sample questions that are available on ETS's GRE website.
Obtain ETS's free GRE preparation materials from the website, either the software geared for computer-based test-takers and the PDF practice book geared for paper-based test-takers. Read through the information on the test's structure and questions.
Take the practice test, preferably on the computer with the free computer software. Like the test, feel free to use scratch paper as a place to gather and outline your thoughts and make calculations. The computer practice test automatically limits your time like the real GRE test. If you opt to take the paper practice test, make sure that you religiously follow the time limits. Set alarms or timers to keep yourself honest.