Vocabulary build up for GRE

GRE vocabulary building is a continuous process, that can't be done in a day or two. The GRE exam does not require you to just cram the concepts. Besides word meanings, you should also be familiar with its usage.For instance, in the verbal section of the GRE exam, the answer options are closer in meaning, requiring the candidate to understand the context before selecting the correct answer. Merely knowing the meanings of GRE words will not help you in marking the correct answer. The relationship between words and ideas is more important than the dictionary meanings.

so, plan your prep properly. Here are some steps to be followed 

1. Read

When reading, we don’t expect to see a given word. This element of surprise makes reading a more effective vocabulary-learning tool compared to flashcards and memorization. Also, the revised GRE focuses on vocabulary in context - again, making reading more effective.The New Yorker, The Economist are littered with GRE words and are great ways to improve vocabulary and reading comprehension.

2.Use words actively

Once you have exposed yourself to new words through reading, you should use active usage to embed the words into long-term memory. Creativity is the key to active usage. As words pop into your head, think of where you can use them.The best and proven method of remembering new words is to use the new word in context and in examples. Try to use the newly learned words in your daily language. Another strategy is to carry vocabulary flash cards of the words you find difficult to remember. You can look at the words every time you need to, which will help your word recall. As you move along with your GRE verbal study, there should be a visible improvement. 

3.Use mnemonics

As silly as the mnemonics may sound, the main takeaway is that a good mnemonic is the one that works for you, and by good, I mean it is memorable. Do not use the mnemonics you found somewhere, make them on your own and according to your convenience and after all it's you who have to remember the word. If you are struggling with a word, a clever mnemonic will not only make the word easier to learn but will also hopefully make the word more fun to learn.

4.Practice 

Take a couple of GRE practice tests at the start of your GRE study; doing so will help you identify your areas of weakness. When you take practice tests, make sure you know why the answer you selected is wrong. Making a note of wrong answers will help you understand your weak areas. This will go a long way in improving your GRE vocabulary. Also take GRE practice tests at regular intervals to measure your progress. These tests will also build your confidence and also help in identifying areas where you need to spend more time. 

5.RCs 

Reading comprehensions in revised GRE constitute half of the questions. So start practicing various comprehensions from day 1. Practice at least 4-5 comprehensions daily. It is equally important to manage your time. Try to build vocabulary in all the tasks throughout the day like reading newspapers, online chats, English films, English songs etc. spend at least 70% of your total time for verbal reasoning. Remember that your verbal score will determine your final GRE score. 

6.Bottom line 

The GRE verbal section tests your understanding of language and vocabulary. There is no shortcut to obtaining a good GRE verbal score. The only way to succeed is to know as many GRE vocabulary words as possible. Some students start their GRE verbal prep almost a year in advance. Starting GRE study early helps because it is impossible to learn thousands of new words in a short time. However, with a disciplined approach and hard work, even within two months you can master a considerable number of GRE words.