The “GRE Big Book” is a comprehensive resource designed to help people prepare for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). It is published by Educational Testing Service (ETS) and contains real GRE questions from previous exams, providing valuable insights into the test’s format and content.
This book is a crucial study tool for individuals aspiring to gain admission to various graduate programs. It covers a wide range of questions, allowing test-takers to become familiar with the types of challenges they will face on the GRE.
With its extensive collection of questions and explanations, the book aims to improve test-takers understanding of the exam’s structure, enhance their problem-solving skills, and ultimately contribute to their success in achieving competitive scores on the GRE.
| Name of the PDF | GRE big book |
| No. of pages | 1089 |
| Genre | Educational |
| Language | English |
| Drama PDF | Click Here |
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When Was the Book First Published
The GRE Big Book, also known as the “GRE Big Book ETS,” was first published by Educational Testing Service (ETS) in 1991. It was a part of the official GRE study materials and contained a collection of real GRE test questions from earlier exams.
It has since become a valuable resource for GRE test-takers preparing for the exam, although it is worth noting that it is no longer in print and may be less commonly available than more recent GRE study materials.
Who is This Book for
The GRE Big Book is primarily intended for individuals who are preparing to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination). The book serves as a valuable resource for several specific groups of people:
- GRE Test-Takers: The GRE Big Book is designed for individuals who are planning to take the GRE exam, whether it’s for admission to graduate programs, business schools, or other advanced degree programs. It offers real GRE questions from previous exams, providing authentic practice material to help test-takers become familiar with the test format and question types.
- Those Seeking Authentic Practice: The GRE Big Book is particularly useful for those who want to practice with genuine GRE questions. Because the questions are drawn from actual GRE exams, they closely resemble what you might encounter on the real test, giving you a more accurate sense of the test’s difficulty and structure.
- Self-Study Students: It’s a valuable resource for individuals who are preparing for the GRE through self-study. The book provides a variety of questions and answers, as well as explanations, making it suitable for those who are preparing independently without formal GRE prep courses.
- Supplemental Study Material: Some test-takers use the GRE Big Book as a supplementary study resource alongside other official ETS materials and third-party GRE prep books. It can be a part of a well-rounded study plan to reinforce skills and gain additional practice.
- Those Interested in Analytical Writing Practice: The Analytical Writing section of the GRE Big Book provides sample Issue Task and Argument Task prompts, along with example essays and scoring guidelines. This is beneficial for individuals who want to improve their analytical writing skills and understand how essays are scored on the GRE.
How is the Book Structured
The GRE Big Book, published by Educational Testing Service (ETS), is structured to provide test-takers with a collection of authentic GRE questions and answers.
The book is organised into three main sections, corresponding to the three major sections of the GRE exam: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
- Verbal Reasoning Section: This section includes a series of Verbal Reasoning questions, such as sentence completion and reading comprehension. Each question is followed by multiple answer choices. The questions are divided into sets or groups, and the sets may be related thematically. For each set of questions, there are correct answer explanations provided, helping you understand why a particular answer choice is correct.
- Quantitative Reasoning Section: This section contains Quantitative Reasoning questions, covering topics in mathematics and data interpretation. Like the Verbal Reasoning section, each question is accompanied by answer choices. Questions in this section may vary in difficulty and format, including multiple-choice, quantitative comparison, and data interpretation questions. Detailed answer explanations are provided for the Quantitative Reasoning questions, explaining the reasoning behind the correct answers.
- Analytical Writing Section: The Analytical Writing section typically includes sample Analytical Writing tasks (the Issue Task and the Argument Task). For each task, you’ll find an essay prompt or a scenario that you need to respond to in essay form. Example responses are provided to illustrate how to effectively structure and write an essay for each type of task. Scoring guidelines and explanations are often included to help you understand how essays are evaluated and scored by GRE graders.
In addition to these three main sections, the GRE Big Book may also include introductory sections with information on how to use the book effectively for GRE preparation, as well as general tips and strategies for taking the GRE.
It’s important to note that the GRE Big Book primarily focuses on providing practice questions and sample responses, so it may be used in conjunction with other study materials for a comprehensive GRE preparation plan.
Importance of the Book
The “GRE Big Book” holds significance for individuals preparing for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for several reasons:
1. Authenticity: The GRE Big Book contains actual GRE questions from past exams. This authenticity gives test-takers a real sense of the types of questions they may encounter on the actual GRE, allowing for a more accurate simulation of the test environment.
2. Familiarization with Test Format: By working through the questions in the GRE Big Book, test-takers become familiar with the format and structure of the GRE. This familiarity is crucial for managing time effectively during the exam and understanding how to approach different question types.
3. Content Coverage: The book covers a diverse range of question types across various sections of the GRE, including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. This comprehensive coverage ensures that test-takers are exposed to a wide array of topics and skills assessed in the GRE.
4. Skill Development: Regular practice with the GRE Big Book contributes to the development and refinement of key skills required for success on the GRE. This includes critical thinking, problem-solving, quantitative reasoning, and effective communication in the analytical writing section.
5. Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses: Individuals can identify their strengths and weaknesses as they work through the questions. This self-assessment is valuable for tailoring their study plans to focus on areas that need improvement, maximizing the efficiency of their preparation.
6. Supplemental Resource: While not the sole resource for GRE preparation, the GRE Big Book serves as a valuable supplement to other study materials. It can be integrated into a broader study plan that includes official GRE guides, practice tests, and review materials.
7. Cost-Effective Study Option: The GRE Big Book is often considered a cost-effective study option. It provides a substantial number of authentic questions at a relatively lower cost compared to some other test preparation materials.
8. Building Confidence: Successfully navigating and answering questions from past GREs in the Big Book can boost the test-taker’s confidence. Confidence is a key factor in performing well on standardized tests.
How to Make the Most of the GRE Big Book
Making the most of the GRE Big Book involves using it effectively as a valuable resource for your GRE preparation. Here are some tips to help you maximize the benefits of the GRE Big Book:
Understand the GRE Structure: Familiarize yourself with the structure of the GRE exam, including the Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections. This will help you use the GRE Big Book strategically.
Set Clear Goals: Define your GRE score goals and understand the specific areas where you need improvement. Having clear objectives will guide your study plan and use of the GRE Big Book.
Create a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that includes a schedule for when and how you’ll use the GRE Big Book. Allocate specific time slots for each section and stick to your plan consistently.
Start with Diagnostic Tests: Begin your GRE preparation by taking diagnostic tests from the GRE Big Book. These will help you assess your initial strengths and weaknesses.
Review Answer Explanations: After attempting practice questions, carefully review the answer explanations provided in the GRE Big Book. Understand the reasoning behind the correct answers and learn from your mistakes.
Focus on Weak Areas: Concentrate on the sections or question types where you struggle the most. Use the GRE Big Book to target your weaknesses and practice those areas intensively.
Simulate Test Conditions: When practicing, try to replicate test conditions as closely as possible. This includes adhering to time limits and working in a distraction-free environment.
Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your performance on practice questions. Note your scores, the types of questions you find challenging, and areas that need improvement. Use this information to adjust your study plan.
Mix with Other Resources: While the GRE Big Book offers authentic questions, consider using other GRE preparation materials, including official ETS guides, third-party prep books, and online resources, to ensure a well-rounded preparation.
Balance Content Review and Practice: Don’t just rely on question practice alone. Make sure to review GRE concepts and strategies to strengthen your foundational knowledge.
Incorporate Analytical Writing Practice: Utilize the Analytical Writing section of the GRE Big Book to practice essay writing. Read sample essays and understand the scoring criteria to improve your analytical writing skills.
Take Full-Length Practice Tests: Periodically, take full-length practice GRE tests to simulate the actual exam experience. This will help you gauge your progress and identify areas that need further work.
Stay Motivated: GRE preparation can be challenging, so stay motivated by setting small milestones and rewarding yourself for achieving them. Join study groups or find a study buddy to stay accountable.
Revise and Repeat: As you progress, revisit the GRE Big Book and practice questions you’ve previously attempted. Repeated practice will reinforce your skills and build confidence.
Conclusion
The GRE Big Book, published by Educational Testing Service (ETS), is a valuable resource for individuals preparing to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination). It offers a collection of authentic GRE questions from previous exams, providing an opportunity for test-takers to practice and familiarize themselves with the test format, question types, and difficulty levels.
To make the most of the GRE Big Book, it’s essential to approach your GRE preparation strategically. Set clear goals, create a structured study plan, and use the book to target your weaknesses while reinforcing your strengths. Carefully review answer explanations, track your progress, and simulate test conditions to ensure effective preparation.
FAQs
Are the questions in the GRE Big Book similar to those on the actual GRE?
Yes, the questions in the GRE Big Book are authentic GRE questions from previous exams. They closely resemble the types of questions you may encounter on the actual GRE, making it a valuable practice resource.
Does the GRE Big Book provide answer explanations?
Yes, the GRE Big Book typically provides answer explanations for the practice questions. These explanations help you understand why a particular answer choice is correct, allowing you to learn from your mistakes.
Is the GRE Big Book the only resource I need for GRE preparation?
While the GRE Big Book is a valuable resource, it is recommended to use it in conjunction with other official ETS materials, third-party GRE prep books, online resources, and practice tests. This ensures a more comprehensive and well-rounded preparation.
Is the GRE Big Book suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, the GRE Big Book can be used by test-takers of varying skill levels. It offers questions of different difficulty levels, allowing both beginners and more advanced students to practice and improve their skills.
How should I incorporate the GRE Big Book into my study plan?
To use the GRE Big Book effectively, create a study plan that includes scheduled practice sessions with the book. Focus on your weak areas, review answer explanations, and simulate test conditions to make the most of this resource.
Is the GRE Big Book sufficient for GRE preparation?
While the GRE Big Book is a valuable practice resource, it is recommended to supplement your preparation with a variety of materials to ensure a well-rounded and thorough study plan. Official ETS materials and additional practice tests are also crucial for success on the GRE.
Niketa Mulay, a seasoned content writer and editor, has over a decade of experience. With a Master’s in Journalism, she honed her skills at The Times of India and now freelances across various industries. Passionate about reading, writing, and scuba diving, she shares expert PDF guides and tips at PDFdrivehub.com.
