GRE Prep Course (with Software) Book

Average Rating:

The Quantitative lessons were the most helpful to me, as they provided in-depth reviews of all the concepts that are likely to be encountered in the exam, with practice problems for each concept. The logic sections were also very helpful, especially when it came to practicing how to concisely jot down the conditions of a problem and how to draw the right kinds of diagrams quickly. Finally, the verbal section provided a good review, including a list of 4000 important vocab words. Unfortunately, the vocab definitions provided were extremely brief, and I found it necessary to turn to another study guide for more extensive definitions.

Overall, though I didn't manage an 800-800-800 like some reviewers who used this book (I wish I could have gotten that score!), I did very well (well enough to feel no inclination to take the test again). I found that the only factor that lowered my scores at all was the fact that I had trouble finishing all the questions on the quantitative and analytical secitons within the time limits (damn those time limits! damn them to hell!). I was much better off for having studied with this book and I would recommend it to anyone, although I'm sure that most study guides are fairly equivalent. What really makes the biggest difference is the time and effort you're willing to devote to studying this or any other guide.

2. The Verbal section of the book does have a helpful vocabulary list, however, their one word definitions are not always entirely accurate in defining these words, thus on test day, you may come up against a word with two meanings such as Purchase (traction or to buy) or Slip (used by potters, or to fall, or an undergarment) and only know one. In addition, their questions for the reading interpretation are somewhat vague and really open to interpretation.
3. Math is my weak point. The math section was thorough enough it seemed to me, but there were several errors.

The other complaint I have regarding this book is the unusual percentile scoring which seems to have very little rhyme or reason. While it appears logical, it scores your test very differently than an actual CAT exam would- despite it being on the computer. The book bases your score on number of questions answered correctly, where as the CAT bases it on the weight of the questions you answer correctly...Based on the scores I got from this book I would have had a 1630, when in reality I scored 1860.

There are several GRE prep books out there. i would recommend you choose a company that focuses on Test Preparation (ie Princeton Review and Kaplan and a few others) to find a more reliable prepatory course....Taking the test is stressful enough without this confusing document.

Overall it may be helpful. Best of luck!