What is the GRE? A Complete Guide for Sociology Students

Whether you’re a junior just starting to think about grad school or a senior with application deadlines looming, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about GRE preparation. Let’s turn that anxiety into action! 💪

What is the GRE? Breaking Down the Basics 🎯

The Purpose and Structure

The GRE is a standardized test developed and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Graduate programs use GRE scores to assess applicants’ readiness for graduate-level academic work. Unlike subject-specific tests, the GRE measures your general verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.

Key Facts About the GRE:

• Total test time: Approximately 2 hours
• Test format: Computer-based (most common) or paper-based (limited locations)
• Computer-adaptive: The difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance
• Validity: Scores are generally valid for five years (meaning, if you apply to graduate school much later after taking the GRE, you may need to take it again)

Who Takes the GRE?

Students applying to graduate programs in fields including:

• Master’s and doctoral programs in arts and sciences
• Business schools (MBA programs increasingly accept GRE)
• Education programs
• Engineering programs
• Social sciences and humanities
• Many professional programs

Some programs may accept alternative tests like the GMAT (for business) or have test-optional policies, so always check your target schools’ specific requirements.

📝Ready to start preparing? Check out GRE prep resources by clicking here!

Understanding the Three Sections 📝

Now that you know what is the GRE in general terms, let’s break down each section:

Verbal Reasoning (Two Sections, 27 Questions, about 40 minutes)

This section measures your ability to:

• Analyze and evaluate written material
• Synthesize information from it
• Understand the meanings of words, sentences, and entire texts
• Understand relationships among words and concepts

Question Types:

• Reading Comprehension: Passages followed by questions testing your understanding
• Text Completion: Fill in blanks to create coherent, meaningful sentences
• Sentence Equivalence: Choose two answer choices that complete a sentence and produce similar meanings

Quantitative Reasoning (Two Sections, 27 Questions, about 45 minutes)

This section measures your ability to:

• Understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information
• Solve problems using mathematical models
• Apply basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis concepts

Question Types:

• Quantitative Comparison: Compare two quantities
• Multiple Choice: Both single and multiple correct answer formats
• Numeric Entry: Type in your answer (no answer choices provided)

The math itself doesn’t go beyond what you learned in high school, but questions require strong reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Analytical Writing (One Task, 30 minutes)

This section measures your ability to:

• Articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively
• Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples
• Examine claims and evidence
• Sustain a focused and coherent discussion
• Control the elements of standard written English

GRE vs. Other Graduate Admissions Tests 🔄

Understanding what is the GRE also means knowing how it compares to other tests:

GRE vs. GMAT: The GMAT is specifically designed for business school, while the GRE is more general. Many business schools now accept either test.

GRE vs. LSAT: Law schools traditionally required the LSAT, but many now accept GRE scores as an alternative.

GRE General vs. GRE Subject Tests: The GRE General Test (what we’re discussing here) is broader, while GRE Subject Tests focus on specific fields like Biology, Chemistry, Literature, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology.

How Important Are GRE Scores? 🎯

GRE scores are one component of your graduate school application. Admissions committees also consider:

• Undergraduate GPA
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or statement of purpose
• Research experience or relevant work experience
• Writing samples (for some programs)

Different programs weight the GRE differently. STEM programs often emphasize Quantitative scores, while humanities programs may focus more on Verbal and Writing scores. Research your target programs to understand their expectations.

Creating Your GRE Study Plan ⏰

Now that you understand what is the GRE, let’s talk about how to prepare for it effectively.

Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Test

Before you start studying, take a full-length practice test to:

• Establish your baseline scores
• Identify strengths and weaknesses
• Understand the test format and timing
• Set realistic score goals

Step 2: Determine Your Timeline

3-6 Months Out (Recommended for Most Students)

This timeline allows you to study consistently while managing your coursework and other responsibilities.

Month 1-2: Foundation Building

• Review fundamental math concepts
• Begin systematic vocabulary building (15-20 new words daily)
• Learn test format and question types
• Study 1-2 hours per day

Month 3-4: Skill Development

• Focus intensively on weak areas
• Practice timed sections regularly
• Increase study time to 2-3 hours daily
• Take your second full-length practice test

Month 5-6: Refinement and Practice

• Take weekly full-length practice tests
• Perfect your test-taking strategies
• Review and consolidate learning
• Light review the week before your test

1-2 Months Out (Intensive Timeline)

• Requires 3-4 hours of daily study
• Focus on high-yield strategies
• Emphasize practice tests and review
• Prioritize based on target program requirements

Step 3: Gather Your Study Materials 📖

Official ETS Resources (Highly Recommended)

• The Official Guide to the GRE General Test
• PowerPrep Online free practice tests
• PowerPrep Plus paid practice tests

Third-Party Prep Books

• Manhattan Prep GRE Strategy Guides (comprehensive)
• Kaplan GRE Prep (structured approach)
• Barron’s GRE (extensive practice)

Online Resources

• Magoosh GRE Prep (affordable, comprehensive)
• Khan Academy (free math review)
• Vocabulary.com or Quizlet (flashcards)

Effective Study Strategies by Section 🚀

Verbal Reasoning Strategies

Vocabulary Mastery You’ll need to know approximately 1,000-1,500 high-frequency GRE words. But don’t just memorize definitions:

• Learn words in context through reading
• Create personal associations or memory hooks
• Use spaced repetition techniques
• Study word roots, prefixes, and suffixes

Reading Comprehension Tactics

• Practice active reading by summarizing paragraphs
• Identify the author’s purpose and tone
• Focus on passage structure rather than memorizing details
• Practice with dense, academic texts

Text Completion Approach

• Predict your own word before looking at choices
• Look for logic signals (contrast, continuation, cause/effect)
• Consider one blank at a time in multi-blank questions

Quantitative Reasoning Strategies

Content Review Make sure you’re solid on:

• Arithmetic (integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios)
• Algebra (equations, inequalities, functions, coordinate geometry)
• Geometry (lines, angles, triangles, circles, three-dimensional figures)
• Data Analysis (statistics, probability, data interpretation)

Problem-Solving Techniques

• Plug in numbers for variables when possible
• Check your answer choices
• Estimate to eliminate unreasonable answers
• Draw diagrams for geometry problems

Time Management

• Don’t get stuck on any one question
• Flag difficult questions and return to them
• Use the on-screen calculator efficiently
• Practice mental math to save time

Analytical Writing Strategies

Issue Essay Approach

• Take a clear position on the issue
• Organize your thoughts before writing (spend 5 minutes planning)
• Support your position with relevant examples
• Consider counterarguments to show depth
• Leave time to proofread (3-5 minutes)

Argument Essay Approach

• Identify the argument’s assumptions
• Point out logical flaws and unsupported claims
• Consider what evidence would strengthen or weaken the argument
• Organize your critique logically
• Use specific examples from the prompt

General Writing Tips

• Vary your sentence structure
• Use transitions to connect ideas
• Prioritize clarity over complexity
• Practice typing to improve speed

Common Study Mistakes to Avoid ❌

Mistake #1: Studying Content Without Strategy Knowing math formulas isn’t enough—you need to practice applying them under time pressure.

Mistake #2: Neglecting Your Stronger Section Even if Verbal is your strength, you still need to practice it regularly to maintain your edge.

Mistake #3: Not Reviewing Practice Tests Thoroughly Taking tests without analyzing your mistakes means you’ll keep making the same errors.

Mistake #4: Passive Vocabulary Study Simply reading flashcards isn’t effective. Test yourself actively and use new words in context.

Mistake #5: Waiting Until the Last Minute GRE prep requires sustained effort over time. Cramming rarely produces good results on this test.

Test Day: What to Expect and How to Prepare 📅

Registering for the GRE

• Register at least 2-3 months in advance if possible
• Current fee: $220 (fee reduction waivers are available)
• Choose your test center carefully (consider location and timing)
• You can retake the test every 21 days, up to 5 times per year

The Week Before

• Take one final practice test early in the week
• Focus on light review and rest
• Confirm your test center location and parking
• Prepare required documents (valid ID)
• Get adequate sleep

Test Day Morning

• Eat a healthy breakfast with protein
• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Bring approved snacks for breaks (stored in a locker)
• Bring your ID and confirmation number
• Stay hydrated but don’t overdo it

During the Test

• You’ll complete sections in this approximate order: Analytical Writing (two essays), Verbal, Quantitative, Verbal, Quantitative, plus one unscored experimental section
• Use the process of elimination aggressively
• Don’t spend too much time on difficult questions
• Remember the test is adaptive—harder questions mean you’re doing well
• Use your breaks to recharge

Understanding Your Scores 📊

When You’ll Get Them:

• Unofficial Verbal and Quantitative scores immediately after the test
• Official scores (including Analytical Writing) available online in 10-15 days

What Scores Mean:

• 130: Minimum score
• 150: Approximately 50th percentile for both Verbal and Quantitative
• 160: Approximately 80th percentile
• 170: Maximum score

Score Goals: Research your target programs’ average GRE scores. Competitive programs often expect:

• Top programs: 160+ on both sections
• Mid-tier programs: 155-160
• Less competitive programs: 150-155

However, these are general guidelines—requirements vary significantly by field and institution.

Retaking the GRE 🔄

If your scores don’t meet your goals:

• Wait at least 21 days between attempts
• Focus on specific weaknesses identified in your first attempt
• Most programs consider your highest scores
• Some schools use “superscoring” (best section scores across all attempts)

Final Thoughts and Motivation 🌟

Understanding what is the GRE is just the first step in your graduate school journey. While the test can seem daunting, remember that thousands of students successfully prepare for and excel on the GRE every year. You can too!

The skills you develop while studying—critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing—aren’t just test skills. They’re the same abilities you’ll use throughout graduate school and in your future career. View your GRE preparation as an investment in your intellectual development, not just a hurdle to clear.

Key Takeaways:

• Start preparing early (3-6 months is ideal)
• Use official ETS materials along with reputable prep resources
• Practice under realistic testing conditions
• Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorizing
• Take care of your physical and mental health during prep
• Remember that the GRE is just one part of your application

You’ve got this! With consistent effort, strategic preparation, and the right mindset, you’ll be ready to showcase your abilities on test day. Your future graduate school self will thank you for the work you’re putting in now. 💪🎉