Books for GRE preparation: Top picks to boost your score

Preparing for the GRE can be a challenging task, but with the right study materials, you can boost your score and increase your chances of getting into your dream graduate program. One of the most effective ways to prepare for the GRE is through the use of books specifically designed for this test.

Best books for GRE preparation

Preparing for the GRE requires a comprehensive study plan and the right books to boost your score. Here are some top books for GRE preparation that can help you achieve a higher score:

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1. The Official Guide to the GRE General Test by Educational Testing Service (ETS)

This book is considered the gold standard for GRE preparation as it is published by the organisation that designs and administers the GRE. It provides a comprehensive overview of the test format, question types, and scoring system. The book includes authentic practice questions and tests that are similar to the actual GRE, allowing you to familiarise yourself with the test's structure and content.

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The detailed explanations for the practice questions help you understand the reasoning behind the correct answers, and the book also offers valuable test-taking strategies and tips. Additionally, this book includes a code that gives you access to online resources, such as additional practice questions and test simulations, which can further enhance your preparation.

2. GRE Prep Plus 2023 by Kaplan Test Prep

Kaplan Test Prep is a trusted name in the field of test preparation, and this book is one of their most comprehensive resources for GRE preparation. It offers an in-depth content review for all sections of the GRE, including Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing.

The book also includes six full-length practice tests, with detailed explanations for the answers, which allow you to assess your progress and identify areas for improvement. One of the standout features of this book is the online resources it provides, such as quizzes, videos, and a customizable online practice test, which can be accessed through the book's accompanying website. These resources offer additional opportunities for practice and help reinforce your learning.

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3. The Manhattan Prep GRE Series by Manhattan Prep

The Manhattan Prep GRE Series consists of several books, each focusing on a specific section of the GRE, including Quantitative, Verbal, and Analytical Writing. These books provide in-depth content review, practice questions, and strategies for each section, helping you build a strong foundation in the tested concepts.

The books also include additional online resources, such as interactive quizzes, practice exams, and video lessons, which can further enhance your understanding of the content and test-taking strategies. The Manhattan Prep GRE Series is known for its challenging practice questions that closely resemble the difficulty level of the actual GRE, making it a great resource for test takers who are aiming for a high score.

4. 5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems by Manhattan Prep

This book is a comprehensive collection of practice problems covering all major topics tested on the GRE, including Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing. With over 2,000 practice questions, this book offers ample opportunities for practice and helps you hone your skills in each tested area.

The questions are organised by topic and difficulty level, allowing you to tailor your practice sessions based on your strengths and weaknesses. Detailed explanations for the answers are provided, helping you understand the concepts and strategies needed to solve the problems. This book is an excellent resource for test takers who want to reinforce their learning through extensive practice.

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5. GRE Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning Practice Questions by Kaplan Test Prep

This book specifically focuses on providing practice questions for the Verbal and Quantitative sections of the GRE. It includes hundreds of practice questions with detailed explanations, allowing you to practise and refine your skills in these specific areas.

The book also offers test-taking strategies and tips for the Verbal and Quantitative sections, helping you understand the nuances of these sections and improve your performance. This book is a valuable supplement to other study materials, as it provides targeted practice for the Verbal and Quantitative sections, which are crucial for achieving a high GRE score.

6. Cracking the GRE with 4 Practice Tests, 2023 Edition by The Princeton Review

The Princeton Review is a well-known test prep company, and their GRE book is a popular choice among test takers. It offers an in-depth content review for all sections of the GRE, including Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing. The book includes four full-length practice tests with detailed explanations for the answers, allowing you to assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.

It also provides test-taking strategies, tips, and techniques that are specifically tailored to the GRE, helping you approach the test with confidence. Additionally, this book includes online resources, such as additional practice questions, video tutorials, and study plans, which can further enhance your preparation and help you stay organised.

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7. GRE Math Workbook by Kaplan Test Prep

If you feel that you need additional practice specifically in the Quantitative section of the GRE, this book can be a valuable resource. It focuses on the maths concepts tested on the GRE and provides practice questions with varying levels of difficulty. The book includes detailed explanations for the answers, helping you understand the mathematical concepts and techniques needed to solve the problems.

It also offers strategies for tackling different types of maths questions, such as algebra, geometry, and data analysis, and provides tips for managing your time effectively during the exam. This book is a great tool for improving your maths skills and boosting your score in the Quantitative section.

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8. GRE Analytical Writing: Solutions to the Real Essay Topics - Book 1 & Book 2 by Vibrant Publishers

The Analytical Writing section of the GRE requires you to write two essays based on given prompts. These books provide a collection of real GRE essay prompts, along with sample essays and detailed explanations of the scoring criteria. They offer insights into the different types of essay prompts and provide strategies and techniques for effectively organising and developing your essays.

The sample essays also serve as models for your own writing, helping you understand the qualities of a well-written essay. These books are valuable resources for improving your writing skills and preparing for the Analytical Writing section of the GRE.

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9. Barron's GRE: 22nd Edition by Sharon Weiner Green, Ira K. Wolf, and Brian W. Stewart

Barron's is a well-known name in the field of test preparation, and their GRE book offers a comprehensive content review, practice questions, and strategies for all sections of the GRE. The book includes two full-length practice tests with detailed explanations for the answers, allowing you to assess your progress and familiarise yourself with the test format.

It also provides tips and techniques for tackling different types of questions, along with strategies for managing your time effectively during the exam. Additionally, the book includes online resources, such as additional practice questions and flashcards, which can further enhance your preparation.

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10. GRE Vocabulary Flashcards by Magoosh

Vocabulary is an important component of the Verbal section of the GRE, and this set of flashcards by Magoosh is a convenient and effective way to improve your vocabulary skills. The set includes 1000 high-frequency GRE words, along with their definitions, examples, and synonyms.

The flashcards are organised by difficulty level, allowing you to start with the basics and gradually progress to more advanced words. The cards also come with an online app that allows you to practise and review the words on your smartphone or tablet. This set of flashcards is a valuable tool for expanding your vocabulary and improving your performance in the Verbal section of the GRE.

Each book offers a comprehensive content review, practice questions, and strategies tailored to the specific sections of the GRE. They also provide additional online resources, such as practice exams, videos, and flashcards, which can further enhance your preparation.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best books for GRE preparation?

The top 10 books for GRE preparation include The Official Guide to the GRE General Test, ETS GRE Prep Plus 2023, Manhattan Prep GRE Set of 8 Strategy Guides, The Princeton Review GRE Premium Prep, and 5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems.

What do these GRE books offer?

These GRE books offer comprehensive content review, practice questions, and strategies tailored to the specific sections of the GRE, including Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing. They also come with additional online resources, such as practice exams, videos, and flashcards, to further enhance your preparation.

Are these books suitable for self-study?

Yes, these books are designed for self-study and can be used as effective tools to prepare for the GRE on your own. They provide detailed explanations, practice questions, and strategies to help you improve your skills and boost your score.