Clueless about the GRE!

[Gecko]

I'm planning on taking the GRE sometime towards the end of November, however I have one big problem, I don't know much about it lol. I'm an Irish student looking to apply to graduate programs in America, however the GRE isn't a widely taken test over here so its quite hard to get information and tips about it from people. If anyone could give me any advice from which books to get/online resources, to a plan/structure on how to study for it I would greatly appreciate it. I'm looking to apply to television production type courses in Boston University, Syracuse and possibly a few other so any relevant info would be such a big help thanks.

[Robosagogo]

First of all, get your hands on a practice test as soon as possible so that you can determine how much preparation you'll need. If your score is far too low to get into your schools choice, then strongly consider waiting until after November to take the test.

If you're near or above your ideal score, then determine your problem areas and devote some time each week to preparing for those aspects of the test.

[Gecko]

Thanks for the Advice. Do you know what are the best books, practice test etc to buy? There seem to be a good few different publishers and I'm not sure which are most productive and which are just a waste of money.

[UnlikelyGrad]

I liked Barron's and Princeton Review, each for different reasons, and felt that using both of them in combination gave me a serious boost.

[trvlr1700]

I agree that practicing from 2 sources is greatly beneficial. I used a Peterson's math book for some review, as well as Princeton and the ETS website for total review. The ETS website has some great information about the new test, downloadable review guides and practice questions, as well as a practice test similar to the real exam. You can also take free online practice tests from Kaplan and Manhattan.

[Gecko]

perfect thanks for your help

[LLajax]

I liked Kaplan's book and all the online stuff it came with it (besides, it was on sale when I bought it). Definitely do practice tests. If you're worried about vocab, dictionary.com has a whole section of GRE online "flashcards" (yay for free study materials!) that are actually fairly in line with what you see on the test.

[George2248]

Use free online pratice test as much as you can and practice in the same test conditions. This websites have good free tests: princeton, kaplans, manhatan and Power Prep. Google them and start practicing