GRE Prep – Verbal Section Timing

GRE veterans understand that pacing is key. In fact, I’ve already written about pacing strategy for the quantitative section. While time management on the math section is relatively straightforward, the GRE Verbal section is a different beast. Time cannot be equally budgeted to each question, mainly because of the Reading Comprehension passages. While this added complexity might seem daunting, many test takers actually prefer the variety of the verbal section. Whether you’re a math genius or a poet, there are simple ways to increase your effectiveness at pacing the verbal section. Because Reading Comprehension is the most time intensive section of the verbal here are some tips on using your time as efficiently as possible.

Reading Comprehension shortcuts -

• Speed is important, but comprehension is key – read through the entire passage without stopping. This is important since questions normally deal with the “tone”, “scope” or “central argument” of the article. Reading in sections or out-of-sequence can negatively affect your high level interpretation of a passage. Re-visit confusing sections after identifying these basics.  Deeply understanding a passage on the 1st or 2nd try will ultimately save you time as you cruise through the subsequent questions.

• Details/Facts etc – don’t waste tons of time memorizing. If a question calls for specific facts from the passage, re-reading a specific quote is quick and easy. Again, focus on attaining a solid understanding of the passage as a whole.

• Vocabulary – given the science or business slant of most RC passages, complex sentences and advanced vocabulary are the norm. Fear not! The meaning of specific words is less important than high-level themes. Read past these roadblocks to see if you can derive contextual definitions.

• Taking Notes – Forget the note-taking you do in lecture or during meetings. Imagine instead that your notes are one-word summaries of main points in the passage. Writing specific facts is unnecessary.

• Personal Knowledge of a Topic – it is probable that you will encounter a passage dealing with familiar subject or issue (whether in practice tests or the “real deal”). Be careful not to let your existing knowledge distract you from the argument or scope of the passage in question. Authors may have taken an unusual stance or used questionable evidence. Your knowledge will help with vocabulary but choose your answer based only on the facts and voice used within the piece.

Remember these are just a few broad strategies for cutting down time on Reading Comprehension. It’s very important to power through the rest of the verbal section to make sure that you come in under the time limit.  If you aren’t sure of an answer its better to guess than to skip a question or to spend so long that you can’t get to all the questions. You lose more points for no answers than for wrong answers! These are general techniques that I find useful, but every test prep system or class will have its own unique approach. I recommend exploring different materials or class options since they will provide much more detailed systems for enhancing your skills. Figure out what works for you and remember to share your feedback!