A 5-week GRE prep class typically covers all three sections: Verbal Reasoning (reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence), Quantitative Reasoning (algebra, geometry, data analysis), and Analytical Writing (essay structure and argumentation). Rather than surface-level review, the focus is on mastering high-yield strategies, understanding question patterns, and building speed without sacrificing accuracy. You'll also take full-length practice tests to identify remaining weak spots and refine your approach.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges on the GRE—you have roughly 1.5 minutes per Verbal question and 2 minutes per Quant question, which feels tight when you're learning new material. The strategy is to practice with timers from day one so your brain adapts to the pressure, skip difficult questions strategically rather than getting stuck, and use the review feature on the computer-adaptive test to revisit easier questions if time allows. Your prep class will teach you which question types to prioritize and how to recognize when to move on.

Most students have a stronger section, and that's normal—the GRE adapts to your performance, so the test gets harder when you do well. A 5-week prep class lets you allocate study time strategically: spend more time on your weaker section while maintaining your strength in the other. Personalized instruction helps you identify whether your struggle is conceptual (you don't understand the math) or strategic (you understand it but run out of time), then targets the actual problem rather than generic review.

Most students should take 4-6 full-length practice tests over 5 weeks—roughly one per week, with additional section-specific drills in between. The first test establishes your baseline and identifies weak areas; mid-course tests track progress and refine strategy; final tests simulate test-day conditions and build confidence. Quality matters more than quantity—each test should be followed by thorough review to understand why you missed questions, not just to see your score.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about question formats—a structured 5-week class reduces both by building familiarity and competence. Regular practice tests in timed conditions desensitize you to the pressure, while learning proven strategies gives you tools to stay calm when you encounter difficult questions. Knowing you've practiced extensively and worked with expert tutors who understand GRE patterns builds the confidence that carries through test day.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either a full practice test or targeted questions across all three sections—to identify your strengths and gaps. You'll also discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific concerns (like math anxiety or reading speed). This baseline helps your tutor create a personalized study plan that prioritizes the areas where you'll see the biggest score gains in 5 weeks.

Look for tutors who have strong GRE scores themselves (typically 160+ on each section), experience teaching the test (not just taking it), and familiarity with the computer-adaptive format and latest question types. They should be able to explain not just the right answer but why common wrong answers are traps, teach you to recognize question patterns, and adjust pacing strategies based on your performance. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Portland who specialize in GRE prep and understand how to maximize gains in a compressed timeline.