1. GRE VERBAL REASONING
SENTENCE EQUIVALENCE

2. Sentence Equivalence - Overview
4 Sentence Equivalence questions in each Verbal Reasoning section
Tests ability to determine how sentence should be completed by using meaning of entire sentence
In each sentence, one word is missing – you must identify 2 correct words to complete the sentence
Correct answer choices, when inserted, result in same meaning for both sentences
Sentence Equivalence Directions:
Select the two answer choices that, when inserted into the sentence, fit the meaning of the sentence as a whole and yield complete sentences that are similar in meaning

3. Sentence Equivalence - Steps
#1 Read the sentence and look for clues (road signs)
Straight Ahead (; semicolon, similarly, consequently, in addition)
Detour (while, conversely, on the other hand, nonetheless)
#2 Predict an answer
Prediction should be a word you choose before looking at answer choices
#3 Select two choices that most closely match prediction
Choose 2 words that, when plugged into sentence. most closely match prediction
Eliminate answer choices that don’t fit prediction
If necessary, adjust prediction to find two answer choices that match
#4 Check answers to see if sentence retains the same meaning

4. Sentence Equivalence - Tips
Consider all Answer Choices
Paraphrase the Question
Putting a difficult or long sentence into your own words makes it easier to predict the answer
Ensures that you understand the meaning of the sentence
Look beyond Synonyms (words with similar meaning)
Finding synonym pairs does not always lead to correct answer choices
Answer choices may include synonym pairs that don’t fit sentence context
Remember the meaning of each sentence must be the same & correct
Use Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots
Think about the meaning of prefixes, suffixes, & roots to help define words