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If you've decided to take the GRE, then Varsity Tutors can help set you up with the right San Francisco-Bay Area GRE prep option for you. The GRE is a standardized test intended for those wishing to attend graduate school. It's very similar to the SAT or the ACT, although most people who take the GRE have already earned their bachelor's degree. This is in contrast to the SAT or ACT, which targets high school students. If you need to take the GRE, then you might be trying to get into a grad school at Stanford University, or perhaps UC San Francisco. Your GRE scores plays a major role when it comes to getting accepted into grad school.
The GRE contains three sections, and you have about 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the test. The good news is that you can take this test almost anywhere in the world, as it's offered in more than 160 countries. The sections you'll need to complete include Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. These are all important topics that you might cover in your GRE prep.
You have a few different options when it comes to preparing for your GRE. You might choose to take a GRE prep course, which is an excellent option for anyone who enjoys a group learning environment. These courses are fully online, and you'll be learning alongside a group of other students who are preparing for the GRE. You'll have the chance to learn from an expert instructor, ask questions, interact, and cover topics related to the GRE.
Of course, you also have the option to enlist the help of a GRE private instructor. This is a perfect solution for those who enjoy one-on-one instruction. You might benefit from a more personal learning environment with a highly qualified private instructor. With this option, you can experience a much more personalized and custom-tailored approach to your study regimen. Your private instructor can help you focus on concepts that you find particularly challenging.
What Does GRE Prep Cover?
Each section of the GRE focuses on entirely different skills, so you'll need to become well-versed in each area to achieve your full potential on this test. We'll give you a basic rundown of what to expect from each section, but your GRE instructor can go into much more depth.
The Analytical Writing section takes one hour to complete. During this section, you will have a total of two tasks to complete. The first task is to analyze an issue, while the second task is to analyze an argument. You should plan to spend roughly thirty minutes on each section. You should also plan out your analysis before actually writing out each task. Organization is key to tackling this section with speed and efficiency, and this might be something that your instructor covers in your GRE prep. This section will put many of your skills to the test. You'll be scored based on how well you can articulate concepts, use examples and reasons, and maintain focus throughout your writing. This section also assesses your overall command of the English language.
Verbal Reasoning is another section you'll need to become familiar with. Many skills will be tested in the Verbal Reasoning section, including your ability to summarize, analyze, and interpret written passages. There are many different types of questions you might face within this section. Reading comprehension questions are common, and you'll be asked to evaluate approximately 10 written passages in this section. You'll also face text completion questions, which ask you to fill in blank parts of a written passage. You'll need to choose the best possible answer for each of these questions. Sentence equivalence questions are also part of the Verbal Reasoning section. In this section, you'll be given partial sentences and asked to complete them in the best possible way. With these questions, you can choose two answers per blank section.
The final section of your GRE is Quantitative Reasoning. This is essentially the math section of the test. You'll be tested on your understanding of basic math concepts, and you'll also use logic and reasoning to solve a number of problems. You'll be tested on a number of math-related skills, including algebra, arithmetic, data analysis, and geometry. These questions are presented in many formats, including multiple choice, numeric entry, and quantitative comparison.
Note that there are actually two more sections: an Experimental section and a Research section. You don't really need to worry about these sections, as they're not scored, but it's helpful to know. These sections contain questions that might be used in future GRE tests. You may or may not encounter both of these sections on test day.
What Are The Benefits Of Each Type Of San Francisco-Bay Area GRE Preparation?
As previously noted, there are two different types of GRE prep to choose from here: a San Francisco-Bay Area GRE prep course, or a San Francisco-Bay Area GRE tutor. Each of these options has its own unique benefits, and you might be better suited to one option over the other. Let's find out the differences between these prep types.
Working in a San Francisco-Bay Area GRE prep class is an ideal option for those who enjoy working with groups, and want the flexibility of an online class. New classes start weekly, and you can choose between a two-week and a four-week course. When you join a virtual classroom, you'll be taught by a qualified instructor who will cover relevant subject matter pertaining to your upcoming GRE. You'll also have the opportunity to interact and ask questions.
Working one-on-one with a private instructor is a perfect option if you benefit from personalized, highly targeted study sessions that focus on the specific concepts that you need to learn. Throughout your personal study sessions, your instructor will learn which learning tools suit you best, which gives them the chance to create highly efficient techniques that work for your individual learning style.
How Can I Find San Francisco-Bay Area GRE Prep In My Area?
Varsity Tutors can connect you with whichever study option suits you best. Remember, this is an important step on your road to grad school. It makes sense to invest in your future and give yourself a solid chance of fully understanding the upcoming GRE before you take the test. Simply contact Varsity Tutors, and get set up with a San Francisco-Bay Area GRE prep option that works for you.
Jennifer: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...very fulfilling. And seeing how a student can surprise themselves with their own abilities is the best thing a tutor can ask for. For mathematics, I've taken up to Calculus BC in high school, and Multivariable Calculus at UCR. I understand the concepts, but I can also explain them using applicable examples. Really, math is like a language; you need to know the basics before you get speaking fluently. Math can be difficult, but it...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Riverside - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- College Economics
- 8th Grade Math
- ACCUPLACER College-Level Math
- +107 subjects
Jennifer: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...and American Literature and minored in Creative Writing. Currently, I work as a Teaching Assistant and graduate instructor for college-level rhetoric and composition classes, as well as university-level senior thesis and literature seminars. I also work with everyone from ESL students to students with multiple languages to elementary-aged students just learning to read and write for the first time. And although it may sound silly, I get really excited about reading, writing, researching, and editing,...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Mills College - Master of Arts, English Literature
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- Drawing
- Creative Writing
- +128 subjects
Cody: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...time I have acquired great experience in tutoring and teaching. I have a total of 8 years of experience tutoring mathematics, particularly calculus. I also have 5 years of experience tutoring in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and physics. My experience has come in the form of private, one-on-one tutoring with students ranging in ages from 7th grade through adult learners, college-level review courses, and even teaching SAT prep courses. My students find me...
Education & Certification
- Massachusettes Institute of Technology - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- OAT
- PCAT
- DAT
- +127 subjects
Matthew: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...I am passionate about social justice, novel mathematics education, and increasing diversity in STEM majors and careers. Currently, I am working on a thesis in discrete geometry and combinatorics, as well as doing research for UCSF where I design machine vision software. I am well positioned to motivate and justify nearly every aspect of math education as being crucial for a future career in science, engineering or education. I bring this emphasis on real world...
Education & Certification
- SFSU - Bachelors, Philosophy/Mathematics
- SFSU - Masters, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- French 4
- Elementary Math
- AP Calculus AB
- +38 subjects
Evan: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...writer by habit. I have over three years of teaching experience at private tutoring companies, UC Berkeley, UC Berkeley's Summer Bridge Program, and as a freelance political science/calculus tutor (there's more overlap than you think). In 2014, my paper "Set Theory and Fuzzy Sets: Their Relationship to Natural Language" was published in the Newsletter of the American Political Science Association Organized Section for Qualitative and Multi-Method Research. I'm fond of good food and bad puns....
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- MCAT
- GMAT
- AP Comparative Government and Politics
- +130 subjects
Helene: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...for fourteen years. I would love to be given the occasion to teach some German, English literature, or composition writing. I've often been my friends' informal editor! In my free time, I love to write, read, and watch movies. I love to ski, though I seldom go. I love to travel. I love to go on bike rides with friends, or sometimes just grab a book and go explore the Berkeley hills on my own....
Education & Certification
- Mills College - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology/Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- IB Social and Cultural Anthropology
- SAT Math
- Social Sciences
- +57 subjects
Eric: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...tutoring is high school core subjects like math and English. I believe these fundamental subjects are the basis of effective thought and communication that set students up for future success. My goal is to guide students to find their own answers and understandings so they can become effective independent learners. I believe the key to academic success is a combination of patience and high expectations, working hard to achieve real measurable progress.
Education & Certification
- Vanderbilt University - Bachelor in Arts, Music
- Vanderbilt University - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- Study Skills
- GRE Verbal
- Art
- +29 subjects
Vivek: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
I am passionate about helping students get better! I love Mathematics and Physics, and want to be involved with the subjects for as long as possible.... To be flexible in teaching methods according to students' needs, and to be available to them for as much as they need.
Education & Certification
- Indian Institute of Technology - Bachelors, Chemical Engineering
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology - PHD, Nuclear Engineering
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- Elementary School Math
- AP Calculus AB
- +32 subjects
Michael: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...the one that works. I enjoy using examples and analogies that help the student "get" and remember complicated concepts. Preparing for standardized tests such as the SAT and GRE is much easier with a tutor to help you prioritize, strategize, and structure your time wisely. I took the GRE in 2013 and earned the top score in Critical Reading, so the latest version is fresh in my mind. I am glad to share the study...
Education & Certification
- The College of William & Mary - Bachelor in Arts, Political Economy, History
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- GMAT
- College Geography
- Other
- +46 subjects
Retesh: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...essentially my whole life and the most important lesson I've learned would be that it is important to never lose hope when life gets tough. It's okay if you don't have all As every semester in every class: what's more important is your effort. One's efforts and hard work are what really measure one's intelligence and my goal as a Varsity Tutors instructor are to not only teach my students the material but also encourage...
Education & Certification
- Marquette University - Bachelors, Physiological Sciences
- Drexel University - Masters, Health Management and Policy
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- ESL/ELL
- English
- French 2
- +46 subjects
Alexander: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...the areas students most often need help with on tests and exams. I am also happy to work with college students. I have worked with almost every variety of Calculus course, as well as differential equations, linear algebra, etc. Finally, I also help students preparing for standardized tests such as the SAT and GRE tests. Though my college career eventually became focused on Mathematics, I work with students on both the verbal and quantitative sides of...
Education & Certification
- Swarthmore College - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- Middle School Math
- SAT Mathematics
- SAT Reading
- +22 subjects
Jacqueline: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...Creative Writing. I have studied Essay Writing at Oxford University and Literature at Harvard University. In my free time, I am a volunteer for several charitable organizations such as Romanian Children's Relief, Stop Hunger Now, and Relay for Life. Though I tutor in a wide variety of topics, I am most passionate about English. I am a highly skilled writer and editor who can provide valuable tutoring to any student struggling with the written word....
Education & Certification
- University of Richmond - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- Test Prep
- COMPASS Writing Skills
- Essay Editing
- +30 subjects
Shannon: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...communication and patience, the student is not only able to learn the mathematical process, but also the ability to think analytically. I would say that my tutoring philosophy is based on encouragement and always validating the opinions of the student before steering the student in the right direction. The student must be willing to learn and absorb information, as well as willing to work with me on a schedule that will match our goals and...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Davis - Bachelors, Biological Sciences & English (Double Major)
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- College Algebra
- English Grammar and Syntax
- Geometry
- +48 subjects
Rohayah: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...help me succeed in school. Equipped with enthusiasm to learn and succeed in life, I embarked on a journey to reach the goals that I had in mind. As a result of that experience, I can really empathize with students who are struggling in school and do not know whom to turn to for help. My forte has always been mathematics, so I would like to help as many students as possible and let each...
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelors, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- Trigonometry
- ACT Math
- College Algebra
- +30 subjects
Lucas: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...have worked with students in a range of settings-- as a K-12 substitute teacher, an after-school program instructor, and a graduate teaching assistant in geography and economics. My time spent at the head of the classroom has granted me a great deal of patience for working with a range of learning styles, and a passion for creating positive learning experiences. Good luck, and keep studying! -- B.S.F.S. '06, Science, Technology & Int'l Affairs, Georgetown Univ.,...
Education & Certification
- Georgetown University - Bachelors, Int'l Environmental Studies (B.S.F.S.)
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- Algebra
- SAT
- Essay Editing
- +52 subjects
Alexandra: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
I am a current graduate level student with a background in technical, science, and humanities coursework. I have years of experience putting this coursework into action through both teaching and technical positions. I enjoy tailoring my teaching methods to each individual student, and I look forward to meeting and working with you!
Education & Certification
- The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga - Bachelor of Engineering, Chemical Engineering
- Johns Hopkins University - Master in Public Health, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- GMAT
- ACT Math
- Adult Literacy
- +61 subjects
Education & Certification
- Swarthmore College - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics and Statistics
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- Math
- GRE Subject Test in Mathematics
- +37 subjects
Jon: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
...have tutored students to prepare the SAT/ACT and have taught calculus and linear algebra as well. My Masters degree was very math/computation heavy so it is a subject I think about a whole lot!I have been tutoring chemistry and physics for almost 10 years now (especially chemistry). I have spent a good part of the last 10 years thinking about these subject but also interacting with confused students (and even confused teachers!) and I have...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- University of California-Berkeley - Master of Science, Theoretical Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- GRE Subject Test in Chemistry
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
- AP Physics 1
- +31 subjects
Education & Certification
- Stanford University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Stanford University - Master of Science, Environmental Engineering
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- Test Prep
- English
- Essay Editing
- +33 subjects
Isabelle: San Francisco GRE test prep instructor
I am a recent graduate from Yale University, where I studied Psychology and Neuroscience. I currently work in content marketing at Halo Neuroscience. I am passionate about writing, music, fitness, and nutrition.
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- GRE
- SAT Subject Tests
- Biology
- Graduate Test Prep
- +25 subjects