How to Prepare for GRE in 2 Weeks
The GRE General Test is a computer-based standardised exam conducted by ETS. It assesses the academic preparedness of international students applying to graduate programs. Universities around the world, including those in the US, UK, Canada, and beyond, rely on GRE scores to gauge your potential for success. As one of the most widely accepted admissions tests, a strong GRE score can significantly improve your chances of landing a spot at your dream school.
With your test date fast approaching, the next two weeks are crucial. To help you structure the perfect last-minute study plan, we’ve created a step-by-step guide packed with strategies to ace the GRE in just 14 days.
Prepare for the GRE in 2 Weeks: A Step-by-Step Guide
While two weeks isn’t ideal for complete GRE preparation, it can be a productive period to significantly improve your score, especially if you have some existing foundation. This plan emphasises strategic study and maximising efficiency.
Days 1–3: Diagnose and work on weaknesses
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- Day 1: Take a full-length official GRE practice test under timed conditions. This will be your baseline and reveal your strengths and weaknesses in Verbal Reasoning (vocabulary, reading comprehension) and Quantitative Reasoning (math).
- Days 2–3: Analyse your practice test. Identify the question types and topics that caused you the most trouble. Devote these days to working up those weaknesses. Utilise official GRE prep books or resources. Focus on high-yield topics and question types that appear frequently on the GRE.
Days 4–7: Verbal reasoning
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- Vocabulary is king: Aim to learn at least 30 new words daily using GRE flashcards, spaced repetition apps, or mnemonic devices. Don’t just memorise definitions; focus on understanding words in context. Utilise official GRE word lists or high-frequency GRE vocabulary resources.
- Reading comprehension: Practise active reading strategies to improve comprehension and speed. Focus on identifying the main idea, supporting arguments, and anticipating upcoming questions. Analyse past reading passages and practice answering related questions under timed conditions.
Days 8–11: Quantitative reasoning
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- Brush up on the basics: Revisit the core math concepts tested on the GRE (algebra, geometry, and data analysis). Use official GRE prep materials or targeted online resources to address specific weaknesses.
- Practice makes perfect: Practise a variety of quantitative reasoning questions under timed conditions. Focus on question types you struggled with earlier and develop strategies to approach them efficiently.
Days 12–14: Sharpen your skills and ace the GRE
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- Practice tests and review: Take 2-3 more official practice tests under timed conditions. Simulate the real test environment as much as possible. Analyse your performance and identify any lingering weaknesses.
- Time management: Practise answering questions under pressure and develop strategies to manage time effectively across all sections. Learn to identify common question types and answer traps to avoid wasting time on the wrong choices.
- Gear up for test day: Get a good night’s sleep before the exam. Eat a healthy breakfast and arrive at the testing centre early to avoid any last-minute stress. Stay calm and focused, and remember the strategies you practised.
Note: This is a two-week intensive program. Prioritise healthy habits like sleep and exercise to maintain focus and stamina. With dedication, strategic studying, and focused practice, you can significantly strengthen your GRE performance in just 14 days.
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5 Tips to Ace the GRE in 2 Weeks
Aiming for a top score on the GRE in two weeks is ambitious. However, with focused preparation, it can help you improve your score. Here are 5 tips to maximise your chances:
1. Prioritise weaknesses
Don’t waste time on what you already know. Take a practice test to identify your weakest areas in Verbal Reasoning (vocabulary, reading comprehension) and GRE Quantitative Reasoning (math). Focus most of your studying on strengthening these areas.
2. Practice makes progress
The GRE questions require specific strategies and timing. Take advantage of practice tests from official sources, like the ETS. Analyse your mistakes on practice tests and adjust your approach accordingly.
3. Power up your vocabulary
A strong vocabulary is key to success in GRE Verbal Reasoning. Aim to learn 50+ new words daily using flashcards, mnemonic devices, or spaced repetition apps. Focus on learning words in context, not just memorising definitions.
4. Sharpen your time management
The GRE is as much about time management as it is about knowledge. Practice answering questions under timed conditions to get used to the pressure of the real test.
5. Maximise efficiency
With limited time, focus on high-yield strategies. Learn to identify question types and common answer traps. There might be some less frequently tested concepts that you can strategically leave behind.
Suggested: Interview with GRE Topper Ashwini Nene (340/340)
How to Ace the GRE with Yocket Prep+
Yocket’s Prep+ is your one-stop solution to streamline your GRE self preparation and achieve your target score. Get started with free resources, including a full-length practice test and a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Yocket goes beyond basic prep. We offer over 40 personalised practice tests that adapt to your difficulty level, provide instant feedback and detailed solutions to help you learn from your mistakes.
You’ll also gain access to:
- 7 ultra-realistic GRE-style tests: Simulate the actual GRE experience for peak preparation.
- In-depth topic-wise tests: Target specific areas for improvement and master each concept.
- Priority dashboard: Track your progress efficiently and see your strengths and weaknesses at a glance.
- Extensive GRE lessons: Learn from Yocket’s expert instructors with over 15 years of experience, gaining valuable test-taking strategies and subject matter knowledge.
Yocket Prep+ goes beyond just increasing your GRE score. We provide access to a list of universities that accept scores in the 300–310 range and help you identify schools that match your score goals.
Sign up for free and take Yocket’s free diagnostic test to jumpstart your prep journey.
From the Desk of Yocket
Two weeks to ace the GRE is a bold move. While it’s unlikely to lead to a perfect score, a focused 14-day practice can definitely improve your performance. The GRE tests your foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills. These aren’t things you can do overnight. However, a two-week push can solidify existing knowledge, expose weaknesses you can address quickly, and get you familiar with the test format and timing. This can translate to a significant score jump, especially if you were already somewhat prepared.
The key is to be strategic. Don’t waste time on a broad review. Take a practice test to pinpoint your exact weaknesses in vocabulary, GRE reading comprehension, and math. Focus your studies on resolving those issues. Use official practice materials and target high-yield topics and question types.
Be realistic about your target score, and prioritise improvement over perfection. With laser focus and a strategic approach, you can use these two weeks to significantly strengthen your GRE performance.