GRE TEST TPS : SPECIFIC SECTIONAL STRATEGIES

VERBAL Section --- SENTENCE COMPLETION:

Before looking at the answers, try to complete the sentence with words
that make sense to you.
Don't rush your selection. Consider all the answers to make the best choice.
Use the context of nearby words to figure out unknown words.
Don't overlook the reversing effect of negative words (like not) or
prefixes (like un-).
If you're really stuck for the meaning of a word, try to think of
other words that have similar prefixes, roots, or suffixes.
Eliminate choices in double-blank questions if the first word alone
doesn't make sense in the sentence.
Let transition words (like although and likewise) help suggest the best answer.

VERBAL Section --- ANALOGIES:

First: create a sentence in your mind that uses the two capitalized words.
Learn to recognize common types of analogies.
Eliminate answer pairs that are clearly wrong.
Beware of possibly correct answers that appear in reverse order.
If more than one choice appears possible, analyze the words again.
Consider alternative meanings of words, as well as alternative parts of speech.
If you don't know the meaning a word, try to recall if you've ever
heard it in an expression. The context of the expression may suggest
the meaning of the word.
Beware of obvious answers! They may be there only to mislead you.

VERBAL Section --- ANTONYMS:

Use word parts (prefixes, roots, suffixes) to figure out the probable
meaning of unknown words.
Be aware of secondary meanings of words. For example, 'appreciation'
can just as readily mean 'increase' as it does 'gratitude'. When no
answer seems correct, look for an alternative (or 'secondary') meaning
for your antonym/opposite choice.
Consider the 'feel' of the word. It may create a sense in you of its
meaning, such as a word like 'grandiose'. It may have a positive or
negative connotation, which may help you to eliminate some choices.
Try to think of similarly constructed words that you may recognize and
that may give you a clue as to the meaning of an otherwise unknown
word.
Think of a recognizable context for a word you don't recognize. Let
the context of the word in a phrase or sentence suggest its probable
meaning.
Think of an opposite meaning for the capitalized word, even before you
look at the actual choices.
Read all the choices before selecting your answer.

VERBAL Section --- READING COMPREHENSION:

You should base your answers to the questions solely on what is stated
or implied in the passages.
Read the italicized introductory text.
Skip questions you don't know. Return to them after answering other
easier questions.
First and last sentences of each paragraph are critical.
Find the right spot in a passage by using any line reference numbers
that appear in the questions.
Answer questions on familiar topics before unfamiliar topics.
Read the passages before reading the questions.
Don't waste time memorizing details.

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