Vocab

[mjstudy]

Would I be better off studying specific words and how to use them in context (kaplan's essential gre words) or greek and latin root words? 

[VinceKotchian]

Learning words and how to use them is much more important, though roots will also help. 

 

I'd suggest making flashcards. On the front of the card, write the word and an easy pronunciation. 

 

For example, PRODIGAL prah-dig-ul

 

On the back, a brief definition, a mnemonic, a short sentence using the word in a memorable way, and a couple of synonyms, found on m-w.com.

 

For example: 

 

PRODIGAL: wasteful

 

PRADA GAL

 

The PRODIGAL PRADA GAL spent $1200 on a pair of boots.

 

Synonyms: spendthrift, profligate

 

Making cards like this will help learn words as opposed to just memorizing them.

[DDsoc]

It depends what's best for you, really. I definitely recommend learning definitions/context, maybe doing 15-20 a day, and keeping a running stack. That's what I did, anyway!