The Importance of GRE Words: Learning and Memorization Strategies

The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, is a standardized test that is required by many graduate schools as part of their application process. The GRE assesses a student's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. The verbal reasoning section of the GRE is comprised of two parts: reading comprehension and vocabulary. The vocabulary section, specifically, is designed to test a student's knowledge of advanced-level English words. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of GRE words, how to learn them, and some strategies for memorizing them.

Importance of GRE Words

As previously mentioned, the verbal reasoning section of the GRE assesses a student's knowledge of advanced-level English words. It is therefore essential for students to have a strong vocabulary in order to do well on this section of the test. In fact, according to the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization that creates and administers the GRE, "a strong vocabulary is an essential component of success on the GRE Verbal section."

In addition to being important for the GRE, having a strong vocabulary is also important for success in graduate school and beyond. Many graduate-level texts and articles use advanced-level vocabulary, and being able to understand and use these words is crucial for academic success.

Learning GRE Words

There are several methods for learning GRE words, including:

Reading

One of the best ways to learn new words is by reading. Reading a variety of texts, including books, newspapers, and magazines, exposes you to a wide range of vocabulary. When you come across a word you don't know, take the time to look it up and learn its definition.

Flashcards

Flashcards are a popular method for learning vocabulary. Write the word on one side of the card and the definition on the other side. Review the cards regularly to help with memorization.

Vocabulary Apps

There are many apps available that are specifically designed to help students learn GRE words. Some popular apps include Magoosh, Quizlet, and Vocabulary.com.

Vocabulary Books

There are many books available that are designed to help students learn GRE words. Some popular books include "Barron's Essential Words for the GRE" and "GRE 200 Vocabulary Word Search Puzzles: Best Gre Vocabulary Book."

Vocabulary Lists

There are many websites and resources available that provide lists of GRE words, along with their definitions. Some popular resources include the ETS website and the Manhattan Prep website.

Strategies for Memorizing GRE Words

Learning new words is only half the battle; the other half memorizes them.

Here are some strategies for memorizing GRE words:

When you learn a new word, try to use it in a sentence. This will help you remember the definition and also give you a better understanding of how the word is used.

Grouping words together based on their similarities can help with memorization. For example, you could group words that all relate to the same topic, such as words related to science or politics.

Try to make associations between the new word and something you already know. For example, if the word is "loquacious," you could associate it with someone you know who talks a lot.

Mnemonics are memory aids that help with memorization. For example, to remember the word "erudite," you could associate it with the phrase "an erudite owl," which would help you remember that the word means knowledgeable.

Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice using and reviewing the words, the more likely you will remember them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having a strong vocabulary is essential for success in the verbal reasoning section of the GRE, as well as in graduate school and beyond. Learning GRE words can be achieved through various methods such as reading, flashcards, vocabulary apps, books, and vocabulary lists. In addition to learning the words, memorization is also crucial. Strategies for memorizing GRE words include using the words in context, grouping words together, making associations, using mnemonics, and practicing regularly.

However, it's important to note that simply memorizing words won't necessarily guarantee success in the GRE. The verbal reasoning section also requires the ability to comprehend and analyze complex passages. Therefore, it's important to also work on improving reading comprehension and critical thinking skills in addition to learning and memorizing GRE words.

Moreover, it's important to not solely focus on memorizing and mastering the most challenging GRE words. Students should also focus on building their general vocabulary as well, as it will help in their academic and professional endeavors beyond the GRE test.

In conclusion, having a strong vocabulary is crucial for success in the GRE and in graduate school and beyond. Learning GRE words can be achieved through various methods, and memorization can be aided by strategies such as using words in context, grouping words together, making associations, using mnemonics, and regular practice. However, it's important to not solely focus on memorizing challenging words and to also work on improving reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Here are the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about GRE words: