Understanding Your GRE Starting Point
Before creating a study plan, it’s helpful to assess your current verbal skills, especially in sentence equivalence and reading comprehension. Different foundations require different paces and emphasis. The following sections outline general approaches for three foundation levels, with daily tasks spread over 3 to 6 months.
For Beginners (Weak Vocabulary & Reading)
If you are just starting and find GRE-level vocabulary challenging, plan for a longer timeline – closer to 6 months. The first two months should focus on building a solid word base and basic reading stamina.
Daily tasks (first 8 weeks):
- Learn 30 new words using flashcards (e.g., Anki) and review previous words.
- Read one passage from a GRE-style resource, timing yourself but not worrying about accuracy.
- Do 5 sentence equivalence questions, focusing on understanding the logic rather than speed.
After two months, increase to 40 new words per day and 2 reading passages. In the final 2-3 months, shift to timed practice and full verbal sections.
For Intermediate (Some GRE Exposure)
If you have already done some GRE prep and have a moderate vocabulary (knowing about 1,000-2,000 GRE words), a 3-4 month plan may be sufficient. Spend the first month on diagnostic tests to identify weak areas.
Daily tasks (example for a 4-month plan):
- Month 1: Diagnose weaknesses; review 25 words/day; do 1 reading passage and 5 sentence equivalence questions.
- Month 2: Increase to 30 words/day; do 2 reading passages and 7 sentence equivalence questions; start timed practice.
- Months 3-4: Take weekly full-length verbal sections; review mistakes; refine strategies.
For Advanced (Already 320+ on a Practice Test)
If you are already scoring above 320 and aiming for 325+, your focus should be on polishing skills and avoiding careless mistakes. A 3-month plan is often enough, with more time on difficult questions and endurance.
Daily tasks (3-month plan):
- Maintain 15 new words/day (mostly advanced level).
- Read 2-3 high-difficulty passages daily.
- Do 10 sentence equivalence questions focusing on nuance and traps.
- Weekly: Take one full practice test to build stamina and time management.
Customizing Your Daily Schedule
Regardless of your foundation, consistency is key. Aim to study 2-3 hours per day, with blocks dedicated to vocabulary, reading, and practice. For busy students, split sessions into morning (30 min vocabulary) and evening (practice). Use weekends for longer practice tests.
Remember to adjust the pace based on your progress. The above are general guidelines; you may need to spend more time on weaker areas. For instance, if reading comprehension is your main challenge, dedicate extra daily time to reading practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many new words should I learn per day? A: For most learners, 25-40 new words daily is common, but beginners may prefer a slower pace to ensure retention. Advanced learners can reduce to 15-20.
Q: Should I focus more on sentence equivalence or reading? A: Both are important on the GRE. The proportion depends on your weakness. If you struggle with reading, allocate more time; if sentence equivalence is harder, practice that more.
Q: How many practice tests should I take? A: Weekly practice tests are helpful during the final month to simulate test-day conditions and adjust your strategy.