GRE Mathematics Subject Test Workshop MSRI-UP 2013

Is the GRE Important? Yes, the GRE general test (similar to SAT, but harder) is required by essentially all grad programs. Prepare for it! Yes, the GRE Mathematics Subject Test is also very important. – Many programs and most “top 25” mathematical sciences graduate programs require it, and thus, use it as part of their acceptance and financial aid decisions – Take it seriously and prepare for it!

GRE Mathematics Subject Test Basics Paper-based test given at various test centers Register online, costs $150 Three test dates per year next three: 28 Sept 2013, 19 Oct 2013, 05 April 2014 Registration deadline ≈ 5 wks before test (late deadline 1 wk later for $25 more) Scores online/phone ≈ 1 mo after test; mailed to grad schools ≈ 5 wks after test Only 3-4 sharpened No. 2 or HB pencils and a good eraser allowed (i.e., no calculator)

Content Overview The test consists of approximately 66 multiple-choice questions drawn from courses commonly offered at the undergraduate level. Test time is 170 minutes (i.e., 2:35 per question). Approximately 50% of questions involve calculus and its applications — subject matter assumed common to the backgrounds of almost all mathematics majors. About 25% of questions are in elementary algebra, linear algebra, abstract algebra and number theory. The remaining questions deal with other areas of mathematics currently studied by undergraduates in many institutions.

Calculus, 50% Differential and integral calculus of one and of several variables — includes calculus-based applications and connections with coordinate geometry, trigonometry, differential equations and other branches of mathematics.

Algebra, 25% Elementary algebra: basic algebraic techniques and manipulations acquired in high school and used throughout mathematics Linear algebra: matrix algebra, systems of linear equations, vector spaces, linear transformations, characteristic polynomials and eigenvalues and eigenvectors Abstract algebra and number theory: elementary topics from group theory, theory of rings and modules, field theory and number theory

Additional Topics, 25% Introductory real analysis: sequences and series of numbers and functions, continuity, differentiability and integrability, and elementary topology of R and R n Discrete mathematics: logic, set theory, combinatorics, graph theory and algorithms Other topics: general topology, geometry, complex variables, probability and statistics, and numerical analysis

Preparation Tips Become a calculus tutor Say “Yes” if asked to tutor linear algebra Help friends with their math courses Download official practice book today Start preparing at least 2 months before test Find a “study buddy” for the test and establish at least 2 weekly 60-minute meeting times Establish a problems/week goal

Preparation Tips (cont’d) Do a minimum of two practice tests in test-like conditions, i.e., by yourself in 170 minutes. – There are three other old exams on Western Michigan University’s Math Club website Princeton Review has a prep book (mixed reviews b/c not enough problems) for $13.73 on amazon (ISBN: ). There is another prep book (mixed reviews) for $12.53 on Amazon (ISBN: ). Book has 6 practice “made-up” exams.

Test-Taking Tips Go to practice book Other tips from those in the room that are good at taking standardized tests?

Let’s do some problems!

Questions/Comments me or Dr. Rubio to get a copy of this presentation