Time Management Strategies for the GRE: Maximize Your Score

1. Understanding the GRE Time Constraints

The GRE consists of three main sections, each with specific time limits:

• Verbal Reasoning: 35 minutes for 40 questions
• Quantitative Reasoning: 35 minutes for 40 questions
• Analytical Writing: 60 minutes for two tasks (30 minutes each)

In addition to these timed sections, there is a short, unscored research section that might be included, but it’s not identified during the test. Despite its unscored nature, it’s important to manage your time as though every section counts to maintain a consistent pace.

2. General Time Management Tips for the GRE

Tip 1: Practice Under Timed Conditions

One of the best ways to prepare for the time constraints of the GRE is to practice under realistic conditions. Use official GRE practice materials and set a timer to simulate the actual test. This will help you become accustomed to the pacing and time limits of each section.

During practice tests, try to complete each section within the given time limit. If you find yourself consistently running out of time on certain sections, it may indicate that you need to adjust your strategy for those areas.

Tip 2: Break the Test into Manageable Segments

The GRE can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with multiple sections in one sitting. Break down the test into manageable segments, and focus on one task at a time. For example:

• Verbal Reasoning: Focus on completing each question within 50-55 seconds.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Aim for 50-55 seconds per question and allocate a little extra time for more complex questions.
• Analytical Writing: Allocate 5 minutes to plan and 25 minutes to write your essay, leaving time for revision.

By setting time goals for each section, you can ensure that you’re staying on track and not rushing through questions unnecessarily.

Tip 3: Skip and Return to Difficult Questions

If you encounter a question that you find particularly challenging, don’t waste time trying to figure it out right away. Mark the question and move on to the next one. This strategy prevents you from spending too much time on any single question and ensures that you’re answering the questions you can handle first.

If time permits, you can always return to the more difficult questions at the end of the section. Just be sure to manage your time effectively so that you don’t run out of time before you finish the entire section.

Tip 4: Use the Process of Elimination

For multiple-choice questions, if you're unsure about the answer, use the process of elimination to narrow down your choices. Eliminate one or two obviously incorrect answers, which will increase your chances of guessing the right answer if necessary. This will save you time and improve your accuracy under time pressure.

Tip 5: Don’t Get Stuck on Hard Questions

GRE questions are designed to test your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but some questions can be deceptively tricky. If you get stuck, resist the urge to linger on the problem. Instead, move forward with confidence, and come back to it later if time allows.

Remember, the goal is to maximize your overall score. Spending excessive time on one question can hurt your ability to answer other questions correctly.

3. Time Management Strategies for Each GRE Section

Verbal Reasoning Section

The verbal reasoning section consists of 40 questions to be completed in 35 minutes. This means you have an average of 52 seconds per question. Here’s how to manage your time:

• Start with the easy questions: Begin with questions that you find relatively easy, and save more challenging ones for later. This will help you build momentum and boost your confidence.
• Prioritize reading comprehension: Reading comprehension questions can take more time, so read the questions carefully before diving into the passage. Use the first few sentences of each passage to determine the main idea, then move on to the questions.
• Don’t linger on tough questions: If you’re stuck on a reading comprehension or text completion question, mark it and move on. You can always come back to it after finishing the rest of the section.

Quantitative Reasoning Section

The quantitative reasoning section also consists of 40 questions, to be completed in 35 minutes. That gives you about 52 seconds per question. Here are some strategies for managing your time in this section:

• Familiarize yourself with math formulas: You’ll be provided with an on-screen calculator, but it's important to have a quick recall of basic math formulas (e.g., area, volume, probability) to save time.
• Do easier questions first: Start with questions you feel most confident about, then move to more difficult ones. If you're unsure about a question, don’t hesitate to skip it and return to it later.
• Estimate when possible: If you’re facing a complex question that requires a lot of calculations, consider estimating the answer. Estimation can often help you eliminate answers more quickly and avoid unnecessary computations.

Analytical Writing Section

The analytical writing section has two tasks, and you have a total of 60 minutes to complete them (30 minutes per task). Here’s how to manage your time:

• Plan before writing: Spend 5 minutes brainstorming and outlining your essay before you start writing. This helps organize your thoughts and ensures you stay on track.
• Write efficiently: Aim to spend 25 minutes writing the essay, and leave 5 minutes for revision. Make sure you address all aspects of the prompt and back up your claims with examples.
• Stay focused on the task: Avoid going off-topic or introducing irrelevant ideas. A concise, well-structured essay is more effective than one that is overly elaborate or tangential.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Time Management

• Spending too much time on one question: If you're stuck on a question, move on and come back later. Don't let one difficult question eat into your time for other questions.
• Ignoring the clock: Keep track of time throughout the test. Make sure you’re on pace to finish each section and leave time for review if needed.
• Skipping questions you can answer: Don’t skip questions just because they seem difficult at first glance. Try eliminating incorrect choices and make an educated guess if necessary.

5. Conclusion

Effective time management is critical to success on the GRE. By practicing under timed conditions, breaking the test into manageable segments, and using smart strategies for each section, you can avoid feeling rushed and increase your chances of success. Keep practicing and refine your time management techniques to ensure that you perform your best on test day!