GRE Exam Syllabus
The syllabus for the GRE General Test is designed to assess candidates in three major areas: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. While the general structure is consistent for all test-takers, each section is prepared to evaluate various sets of skills necessary for success in graduate and professional programs. Continue reading to understand the syllabus for every section of the GRE in detail.
GRE Verbal Reasoning Section
This section tests your ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate written material, as well as your ability to recognize relationships among words and concepts.
- Types of Texts:
- Academic and non-academic passages, short texts, and sentences
- Format: 2 sections
- Section 1: 12 questions | 18 minutes
- Section 2: 15 questions | 23 minutes
- Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension
- Text Completion
- Sentence Equivalence
- Skills Tested:
- Analyzing written passages, synthesizing information, drawing inferences, and understanding vocabulary in context
GRE Quantitative Reasoning Section
This section focuses on your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information and to solve problems using mathematical concepts.
- Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis, and basic statistics
- Format: 2 sections
- Section 1: 12 questions | 21 minutes
- Section 2: 15 questions | 26 minutes
- Question Types:
- Quantitative Comparison
- Multiple-choice (single or multiple answers)
- Numeric Entry
- Skills Tested:
- Mathematical reasoning, data interpretation, quantitative problem-solving.
Note: An on-screen calculator is provided. All questions must be answered within the allotted section time.
GRE Analytical Writing Section
This section assesses your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support ideas with relevant reasons and examples, and examine claims and evidence.
- Format:
- 1 Task: Analyze an Issue
- Time: 30 minutes
- Skills Tested:
- Critical thinking, logical organization, clarity of expression, and argument development
Note: Responses are categorized directly into the computer. Proper structure, coherence, and suitable examples are necessary for a high score.
GRE Test Tasks, Word Limits, and Timing
This section assesses your ability to express ideas clearly in written English. It includes two tasks, with the same time and word limits across both test types.
| Task/Section | Number of Tasks/Questions | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Writing | 1 essay | 30 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning Sec 1 | 12 questions | 18 minutes |
| Verbal Reasoning Sec 2 | 15 questions | 23 minutes |
| Quant Reasoning Sec 1 | 12 questions | 21 minutes |
| Quant Reasoning Sec 2 | 15 questions | 26 minutes |
Key Differences:
| Aspect | Verbal Reasoning | Quantitative Reasoning | Analytical Writing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Assess reading comprehension & vocabulary | Assess mathematical & data interpretation skills | Assess critical thinking & writing |
| Question Types | Reading comprehension, text completion, equivalence | Quant comparison, multiple-choice, numeric entry | 1 essay (analyze an issue) |
| Content | Passages, sentences, vocabulary | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis | Argument development, structure |
| Calculator | Not allowed | Allowed (on-screen) | Not allowed |
| Skills Emphasized | Reasoning, inference, vocabulary | Calculation, logic, data analysis | Logic, coherence, clarity |
Verbal Reasoning Tasks
- Reading Comprehension:
- Answer questions based on passages from various fields
- Text Completion:
- Fill in blanks to complete short passages.
- Sentence Equivalence:
- Choose words that best complete a sentence with a similar meaning.
Quantitative Reasoning Tasks
- Quantitative Comparison:
- Compare two quantities and decide the connection.
- Multiple-choice:
- Select one or more correct answers.
- Numeric Entry:
- Enter a numerical answer.
Analytical Writing Task
- Analyze an Issue:
- Compare two quantities and decide the connectioWrite a well-structured essay presenting your perspective on a given topic.