Firm Up Your Vocab Skills for the GRE: The Most Common GRE Words
There are many things that students must do to prepare for the Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE. Becoming familiar with vocabulary words used on the GRE as well as their definitions can help you master many Verbal Reasoning questions. Fortunately, students have several options when it comes to studying the most common GRE words. Consider some creative ways that students can become familiar with vocabulary words used on the GRE:
Word Games
Many students find online word games helpful as they prepare for the GRE. These word games can take a variety of forms. One example is a simple matching game that asks students to pair GRE vocabulary words with their definitions. Another example is a more familiar game, such as Hangman, that incorporates words seen in Verbal Reasoning questions. Some students like to play online word games with friends since competition can make the process of absorbing new words more fun. Plus, a friend can offer encouragement and support that can push a student to learn even more words for the test.
Memorable Sentences
Creating memorable sentences is another way for students to learn high-frequency words for GRE questions. For instance, a student can bring in personal experience when creating a sentence for the word “indelible”: “ My mother was angry when my little sister wrote on her bedroom wall with indelible marker. ” The student is more likely to remember the definition of the word “indelible” because they created a sentence based on something that happened in their family. Plus, the act of writing sentences on paper further helps a student absorb words and their definitions.
Varsity Tutors’ tutors are experts at helping students prepare for the GRE because we hire tutors who excel on this exam. In our courses, we give students valuable tips like these for how to learn high-frequency words for GRE questions. Because our students learn test strategies from professionals who have practical experience with the GRE, they get the tools they need to succeed.
Reviewing Flashcards
Flash cards are effective study tools for students who are learning the most common GRE words. Some students like to make traditional flash cards using a marker and index cards. They write the vocabulary word on one side of the card and its definition on the other. Other students prefer to find an app for GRE flash cards that they can access via their smartphone.
Either way, you can review their flashcards during free moments throughout your day. This can increase the total number of GRE words you can learn per week. You can also enlist the help of friends as you review flashcards – a friend can hold up a flash card and ask you for the definition of the word, making study time more effective.
Using New Words on School Assignments
The next study method is perfect for undergraduate students who plan to take the GRE. High-frequency words found on the test can be incorporated into daily assignments for classes. For instance, you might use several GRE vocabulary words while writing a paper for a literature class, or you can use GRE words to complete the essay section on an exam for a history class. Including GRE vocabulary in assignments gives you additional practice with these words and may even impress a professor or two!
Additional Reading Material
Putting in some extra time reading is another way to prepare for the GRE. High-frequency words seen on the test can sometimes be found in newspapers, nonfiction books, and magazines. Science and news magazines are especially useful for students learning GRE vocabulary. Some classic novels also contain many GRE words. Reading these types of materials gives you the opportunity to see GRE vocabulary used in context. Once again, this boosts the chances that you'll remember the word when they see it on the test.
Our team of instructors at Varsity Tutors knows how to guide students toward success on the GRE. We can help students increase their supply of GRE words so they can excel on Verbal Reasoning questions. Our talented instructors address the specific needs of each student. Contact our offices today!
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