How the GRE Practice Test Scores Are Calculated
The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) practice test scores are calculated based on the number of correct answers you provide in each section of the test. For accurate preparation and understanding, it is essential to know how these scores are determined.
GRE Test Sections
The GRE is divided into three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Each section has a specific scoring method, ensuring that your performance is measured effectively.
Scoring for Verbal and Quantitative Sections
Both the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale from 130 to 170 in one-point increments. The raw score for each section is the total number of correct answers, which is then converted to a scaled score using a specific scoring algorithm. This algorithm accounts for the difficulty of the questions, ensuring that test editions and difficulty levels do not impact your score.
Verbal Reasoning Section
For the Verbal Reasoning section, you will encounter several types of questions, including reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence. The raw verbal score is obtained by counting your correct answers, and then it is converted into a scaled score through the equating process. Equating ensures that variations in different test editions do not affect your performance.
Quantitative Reasoning Section
The Quantitative Reasoning section includes multiple-choice questions, numerical entry questions, and data interpretation tasks. Similar to the Verbal Reasoning section, the raw quantitative score is the total number of correct answers, which is then scaled through the same equating process to provide a consistent and fair scoring system.
Scoring for Analytical Writing Section
The Analytical Writing section consists of two essays—one evaluated for analysis of an issue and another for analysis of an argument. Each essay is scored on a scale from 0 to 6, in half-point increments.
Evaluation of Essays
Your essays are evaluated by both a human rater and a computerized scoring system. The final score is the average of the human and computer scores. This dual evaluation system ensures accuracy and fairness in the scoring process.
Score Reporting
Your score report from a practice test will typically include your raw scores, scaled scores for the Verbal and Quantitative sections, and a score for Analytical Writing. It is important to note that practice test scores can vary from your actual GRE scores due to factors such as test conditions, familiarity with the test format, and other variables. These practice test scores are meant to give you a general idea of your performance and areas for improvement.
Practice Test Considerations
To get the most accurate assessment, it is best to simulate real test conditions when taking practice tests. This includes timing yourself, adhering to the structure of the actual test, and getting used to the types of questions you will encounter. By doing so, you can better prepare and understand how the scoring system works, helping you to perform optimally on the actual GRE test day.