Understand that standardized tests, including the GED, are beatable tests. Because the content and format are the same from year to year (except during scheduled revisions), and because there are a multitude of practice GED tests and questions available, you can master GED material with time.
Learn the concepts and facts that will be tested on the GED forward and backward. The American Council on Education, the group that administers the GED, has a website where you can get free practice GED tests and questions. Additionally, your local bookstore and Amazon have many GED study guides available.
You should create a study schedule for yourself that includes time for taking full length practice tests. If there are reasonably priced Adult Education GED classes in your area, sign up! With so many GED resources available, there is no excuse for being unprepared for the GED.
Understand how the GED is scored and what constitutes a passing score. Each section is scored fron 200 to 800, and in most states you must earn at least 410 on each section, AND earn a total score of at least 2250.
Consider what this means. If you earn only 410 on each section, your total score would be 5x410 = 2050, which is less than 2250. So in order to barely pass, you must actually score higher than 410 on some sections.
The median and average score for each section is 500. If your score is average on each section, you would receive a total score of 5x500 = 2500. But if you want to ace the GED, or at least do better than average, your total score must be above 2500. Keep this number in mind as a goal when you are studying.
As you study for the GED, set weekly goals for yourself to keep your motivation up. The more time you invest in studying, the higher your GED score will be. Earning a high GED score will offset some of the stigma attached to not having a traditional high school diploma.
See my related articles for specific strategies you can use on each of the 5 subject areas.