The best preparation and focus tactic if you are taking the GRE test is to have a thorough understanding of the GRE format. The test is divided into three sections to include verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing. The verbal and quantitative reasoning sections are comprised of different question formats that include text completion, sentence equivalence, multiple choice with one answer, multiple choice with one or more answer choices, select a passage, text completion, numeric entry and quantitative comparison questions. The analytical writing section of the GRE consists of two separate writing tasks that are timed individually. The first task requires that the tester draft an analysis of an issue while the second requires a written analysis of an argument. Testers should review all of the question and task formats and instructions.
The GRE is a timed test. Each of the testing sections is timed separately. Testers should become familiar with the amount of time they have for each section and complete practice tests to determine how to best address each section to maximize their strengths. Testers should learn to focus only on the questions they know the answer to. The tester should then address questions where possible answers can easily be eliminated. Questions where the tester is in doubt should be addressed last. Completing practice tests allows you to become more familiar with the testing format and more comfortable testing under the guidelines to improve focus on the day of testing.
Preparing mentally is another aspect of improving focus when taking the GRE. Preparation materials are available in printed and electronic formats online and in many educational and book stores. These materials provide information on the basic skills the GRE focuses on. Testers are advised to review the basic skills listed to become comfortable with the terminology as well as become proficient in their utilization to decrease the amount of time necessary to complete the test and increase the potential score.
The GRE test lasts 150 minutes. Small breaks are provided between sections where the tester can gather scratch paper, use the restroom, stretch her legs or consume a small snack. Testers need to use this time wisely. Many individuals are not used to tests of this duration and should prepare accordingly. All testers need to ensure they receive an adequate amount of rest before the test and that they consume enough nutrients to sustain themselves throughout the testing period.