1. Tips before your GRE exam
Final Thoughts
Tips before your GRE exam

2. Nobody gets all the GRE questions right!
It is possible to score 170 on verbal and not answer all questions correctly
Computer Adaptive Test starts everyone at ‘average’ difficulty; adjusts level up or down depending on your answers
Some questions may be ‘unscored’ questions for test research
Don’t be deterred by ‘easy’ questions!

3. Significant score improvement is possible!
Do not panic if your first practice exam score is disappointing.
Take multiple complete practice exams to prepare yourself for this marathon.
Familiarity brings level of comfort and confidence.
The average of the last 2-3 practice exams before your GRE gives a fair estimate of your actual score

4. Laser-focus a few problems
Instead of doing hundreds of practice problems, focus on a smaller number of representative problems from each section.
Really review these problems. Understand
Why the answer is correct
Concept behind the problem
How to recognize this type of question
Strategy to approach
Guessing strategy

5. GRE score is NOT everything!
Score is only one piece of your application
Schools consider application in a holistic sense
Other factors:
Essays
Letters of Recommendation
GPA
Entire application

6. Retakes are OK!
Second or third attempts at the GRE do not usually have a negative effect on your application
Schools may view multiple attempts as seriousness, commitment to program
Don’t overdo it though! More than 4 tries?....maybe not…
Aim for median score range for your target schools, around 80% range

7. Just before the exam
Try to keep external stress as low as possible (life!)
Get adequate sleep
Day of exam, do not try to learn anything new!
Light review only
A few practice problems to keep your limber
Nothing intense
Arrive at test site early- minimize stress
Take the full 10 minute break- you will be glad you did!
Breathe! Frequently and deeply!