Purchase a GED study guide that contains practice tests. There are five subjects tested on the GED exam: language arts, mathematics, writing, social studies and science.
Take the practice tests included with the book. The questions in the exams are in multiple choice format that will either be in your book pages or on an accompanying CD, depending on the GED study guide you purchased. Read each question carefully and choose from one of the available answers. When you are finished, look in the back of your book for the answer key and grade yourself. If you took the practice tests on a CD that came with your study guide, the software will automatically provide your score when you complete each question.
Choose the subjects in which you received the lowest scores to study first. For instance, you may already be proficient in mathematics, but need to work on your writing skills. Depending on your practice test scores, you may not need to study all of the subject areas in order to pass the actual GED.
Create a study plan by first deciding if you want to go to a local community college for review classes, take review classes online or self-study with books at home or the library. If you decide to enroll in a community college visit the "Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges" Web site at www.sbctc.ctc.edu and select the "Public Info" link from the "quick links" drop down menu. "Click" the link "Your Education" and select "GED" from the list of options. Download the "Guidebook of Washington State GED Testing Centers" for a complete listing of community colleges that not only administer the test, but also offer any needed review classes.
Enroll in online GED preparation courses to gain access to review materials and regular testing. There are many to choose from and some are free. Online colleges also offer the preparation classes. These are more costly but are worth it if you need intense instructor guided review courses. If you prefer to self teach, continue with your GED study guide book and supplement with books designed for tutoring. These are readily available in book stores or your local library.