GRE

No, you do not need to read numerous GRE books to prepare. Focussing on one or two high-quality GRE prep books is often more helpful than using several resources since it reduces confusion and helps to lay a firm foundation in each area. Popular selections include ETS's *Official GRE Guide* and books from recognised publishers such as Manhattan Prep or Kaplan, which include thorough practice problems, exam techniques, and explanations for all elements of the test. Furthermore, sticking to a few credible sources allows you to focus on thoroughly learning the topic and developing test-taking techniques. Consistent practice and examination of your mistakes will be more beneficial than gathering many books, allowing you to face the exam confidently.

The optimum timing to take the GRE depends on your application deadline and level of preparation. Ideally, you should take the test 1-3 months before your earliest application date, giving you enough time to evaluate and, if necessary, retake it. For fall admissions in the United States, it is advisable to take the GRE between August and October of the preceding year, as application deadlines frequently fall between December and January. Planning to take the GRE in the summer might also be beneficial for people with academic responsibilities during the school year, allowing for more focused preparation. Remember that your GRE scores are valid for five years, so taking the test early can provide you with more options if you decide to apply later.

The overall GRE score is based on three sections: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The Verbal and Quantitative portions are assessed on a scale of 130-170 in one-point increments, while Analytical Writing is graded on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. The Verbal and Quantitative scores are combined to generate a total score out of 340, however, the Analytical Writing score is presented separately and does not count towards the total. Each section is computer-adaptive, which means that the difficulty varies depending on how well you performed in previous portions. Scores are generated using both raw scores (based on correct answers) and difficulty adjustments to ensure consistency across test versions. The end result is a standardised assessment of a test taker's abilities.