Common GRE Mistakes: 7 Traps to Avoid in Quant, Verbal & AW

The Graduate Record Examinations, or GRE for short, is a standardised examination for many graduate programs and business schools worldwide. It’s a computer-based exam that tests your proficiency in math, verbal reasoning, analytical writing, problem solving, and data interpretation, among other things. The exam timing has been reduced to two hours, which doesn’t reduce errors. This blog will examine the seven biggest GRE mistakes and how to avoid them.  

From Quantitative Reasoning to Verbal Ability, here are some of the most typical traps that test takers fall into. Avoid these GRE mistakes at all costs.  

Common GRE Mistakes

Getting Stuck on Tough Questions

The new GRE is just under two hours, so every second counts. Many test takers focus all their attention on one tricky question and leave the easier ones. You panic, run out of time, and lower your overall score. 

GRE is section-level adaptive. So your performance in the first section of any subject will affect the difficulty in other sections. 

You must do well in the first section, not just one question. So maximise the accuracy, not on one question overall. One way to save time is to set internal time checkpoints. Don’t spend over 50 seconds on a question you can’t understand; move on to the next one. 

Not Practising Under Test Conditions 

This is yet another mistake that students often make. It’s easy to study and practise under a relaxed environment with practice questions, but GRE, as mentioned earlier, is an adaptive test. The difficulty depends on the performance in the first part. It increases psychological pressure, causing your score to drop if you perform poorly in the first part of the test. 

You must perform under pressure to train your mind for the exam to give your best.  The best way to do it is to take mock tests. They create a simulated exam environment, improving your time management skills and helping you identify your strengths and weaknesses. They also improve your accuracy and section-specific mastery. IMS Manya has comprehensive GRE mock tests with detailed feedback, which will help you excel and prepare you for the pressure. 

Read Also: GRE Mock Tests 2025: Practice Tests & More

GRE Mistakes in Quantitative Reasoning 

Overrelying on the Calculator 

The good news is that the GRE allows using an on-screen calculator for the quant section. The bad news is that too much of its usage can slow you down. Clicking in the numbers on the digital calculator is time-consuming and can delay you. And some questions can be solved without relying on the calculator.

To avoid too much dependence on the calculator, use the power of estimation for quick calculations. Try mental math for the more straightforward calculations and use the GRE calculator only for complex problems. Practising quant regularly and solving quick math problems on apps such as Duolingo can keep you sharp and reduce your dependence on the calculator.

Not Using Smart Strategies 

Quant comparison questions can feel tricky, and treating them like regular math problems is the biggest mistake. Avoid misinterpreting the questions, making silly calculation errors, or failing to consider the possibility of negative values.

Read Also: How to Score a Perfect 170 in GRE Quant Section

GRE Mistakes in Verbal Reasoning 

Misunderstanding Vocabulary 

One of the most defining features of GRE Verbal Ability is the vocabulary questions. It’s a crucial part of the test because it tests your knowledge of words and your ability to apply them and interpret their meanings through sentence completion and sentence equivalence. Instead of memorising a whole dictionary, learn words in context by reading articles from The Economist or The Scientific American. Pay attention to word tone: Does the missing word have a positive or negative connotation? This will help you narrow down your options. 

Choosing Answers That Sound Right 

This is a common mistake students make in reading comprehension–selecting an answer that sounds right rather than is right. The GRE includes trap answers that are close but not quite right, and if you are not careful, you could pick the wrong answer. Always find direct evidence in the passage to support your answer. If the answer sounds right but you can’t justify it with the text, it’s probably a trap. 

GRE Mistakes in Analytical Writing 

Not Practising GRE Mocks Under Timed Conditions 

Even though GRE removed one essay, the analyse and issue essay is still a part of the test. Timed practice is necessary whether you are a confident writer or a novice. Many test takers struggle with writing the test in under 30 minutes because of a lack of practice. If you want to ace your essays, set a timer for your writing practice. Use a structured template: a proper introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Don’t waste too much time thinking about how to write. Use specific examples, but avoid complex, time-consuming ideas. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much time is needed for GRE preparation?

Logically, the earlier you start, the better your preparedness. Ideally, you should begin 2-6 months before your test date. Start with a diagnostic test with IMS Manya. Plan your next steps accordingly. If your score isn’t impressive enough, you should start your preparations much earlier.

How can silly mistakes in GRE be avoided? 

It’s particularly frustrating for students to make silly mistakes, usually caused by stress and panic. This happens when test takers are not familiar with the GRE pattern and have not practised enough. The solution is to slow down, organise, and practise with GRE Mock Tests. 

Should I leave the question blank on GRE if I don’t know the answer?

Never leave anything blank on GRE. The exam doesn’t penalise you for giving the wrong answer. If you leave a question blank, you won’t be scored for it. But if you make an educated guess, you have a 5-in-1 chance of getting it right. 

How many GRE attempts are allowed in a year? 

According to the Educational Testing Service (ETS), you can take the GRE General Test five times in 12 months, but there must be a gap of 21 days between each test during that time period.