Find out GRE score requirements and application deadlines for the schools to which you are applying. This will give you a clearer goal on which to base your studying.
Register for a test date. Work backward from the earliest application deadline to figure out a test date that gives you enough time to study. Factor in extra time in case of any delays. Remember, you can only take the GRE once per month, and it can take up to four weeks for official scores to reach your schools.
Take a practice test. Don't be discouraged if your score is low; this tells you how much you need to study and on which sections of the test you need to focus. The GRE website (www.takethegre.com) offers the software PowerPrep, which includes practice tests.
Study with a plan. If you study without a plan you risk using your time inefficiently and using materials that are wrong for your learning style. Schedule your study time and make short-term goals with rewards along the way to keep you motivated.
Study according to your learning style. Thick GRE preparation manuals are not your only choice. If you learn best in a structured, formal environment, take a test-prep course at a local school. If you prefer structure but not a large group, you can hire an individual tutor. If you are self-motivated and learn best alone, preparation manuals and software can work for you. Just make sure you use updated versions of the material.
Set realistic and personalized study goals. These goals can be based on scores as you study and take practice tests periodically. They can also be based on time; you can study for set amounts of time per day. Another option is to base your goals on content. For example, you can study a certain amount of vocabulary words each day.
Focus on time management. The test is computer-based and has pacing constraints that could add or subtract points from your score. It is also adaptive, which means that performance on previous questions determines which questions come next. Furthermore, you cannot skip questions or change answers once you have submitted them.