GRE Preparation Guide: How to Score 320+
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GRE Preparation Guide: How to Score 320+

8 min readEduvrze Test Prep Team

A complete GRE preparation strategy for Indian students — Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical Writing sections, study plan, and resources.

Understanding the GRE

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required for admission to most Masters and PhD programmes in the USA and Canada, and is increasingly accepted by UK and Australian universities. The test has three sections: Verbal Reasoning (130–170), Quantitative Reasoning (130–170), and Analytical Writing (0–6). The total score is out of 340 (Verbal + Quantitative). A score of 320+ is considered competitive for top US universities. The test is computer-adaptive and takes approximately 3 hours 45 minutes.

Quantitative Reasoning Strategy

Indian students typically score higher in Quantitative Reasoning (average 159) than Verbal Reasoning. To score 165+: master all arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data analysis concepts; practise with official ETS materials; learn to identify question types quickly; use the on-screen calculator strategically (it's slower than mental math for simple calculations); and practise data interpretation questions, which are the most time-consuming. Target: 165–170 in Quantitative.

Verbal Reasoning Strategy

Verbal Reasoning is the most challenging section for Indian students. To score 155+: build vocabulary systematically using the Magoosh GRE Vocabulary Flashcards (1,000 words); practise Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence questions daily; for Reading Comprehension, focus on understanding the author's tone and main argument; avoid common traps like extreme answer choices. Target: 155–165 in Verbal. A score of 160+ in Verbal is exceptional and significantly boosts your application.

Analytical Writing Strategy

The Analytical Writing section has two tasks: Issue Essay (30 min) and Argument Essay (30 min). For the Issue Essay: take a clear position, support it with 3 specific examples, and acknowledge counterarguments. For the Argument Essay: identify logical flaws in the given argument — do not give your opinion on the topic. Both essays are scored 0–6 in 0.5 increments. A score of 4.0+ is considered good; 5.0+ is excellent. Practise writing 2 essays per week and get feedback.

10-Week GRE Study Plan

Week 1–2: Diagnostic test + vocabulary building (50 words/day). Week 3–4: Quantitative fundamentals + Verbal question types. Week 5–6: Full-length practice tests + error analysis. Week 7–8: Targeted practice on weak areas + Analytical Writing. Week 9: 3 full-length mock tests. Week 10: Light review + exam preparation. Use official ETS GRE materials as your primary resource, supplemented by Manhattan Prep or Magoosh for additional practice.

GRETest PreparationScore 320Graduate Admissions