I took the GRE twice-- received verbal scores in the 96-98%tile, and writing scores of 4.0 (45%tile). Thank goodness programs look at SOPs and writing samples!
I found that knowing what to expect test day, along with having completed the test once, lessened my anxiety and did result in a score improvement (110 pts overall).
... that a prof still hasn't submitted LORs due yesterday, and hasn't responded to reminder email?
Also, any suggestions on how to track the letter down?
I took the test last week and had a similar experience-- my test score was 90pts lower than the score I consistently received using powerprep. I've been practicing a bit more (I think in the end I focused too much on verbal prep) and I'm retaking it tomorrow in the hopes of scoring a bit higher.
Apparently I'm quite the anomaly-- I took the test last week and called for scores by phone today to find out how I did on the writing. My official verbal score is 10 points lower than the unofficial score I had on test day. I called ETS customer service and got "the scores you receive immediately are unofficial and subject to change." I know 10 points isn't a huge deal; I'm still a bit peeved.