How to Prepare for the GRE Literature in English

Here are some tips to study and resources related to taking the GRE in English literature, a test required by the object of many graduate programs in literature.

If you are considering applying to a master's degree in literary studies, there is a good chance you'll have to take the GRE literature in English through the application process. Administered by ETS, the GRE in the literature is a test of 230 multiple choice questions ranging in scope from Beowulf to contemporary literature, covering all genres and schools of criticism. Test takers are given two hours and 50 minutes to complete the test, which can be a daunting task if you're not prepared. Here are some tips and strategies to not only survive the GRE in the literature, but to achieve a high score.

The Plan of Action for the GRE Literature in English :

According to ETS, there are four main types of questions to expect. The test is:

- 40% to 55% literary analysis,

15% to 20% identification

- 20% to 25% of cultural and historical contexts,

- And 10% to 15% in history and theory of literary criticism.

This means that the test ranges from easy to identify issues of long passages and poems to interpret. The test is offered three times per year: April, October, November and. Make sure you register for a test as soon as possible. You can register for a test by visiting the ETS website.

How the test is scored :

For each wrong question, 1 / 4 of a point is deducted from your score. If you leave an answer blank, you will not receive any points. With a correct answer, you get 1 point. All this is collected, and you are given a raw score between 0 and 230, which is then - using an equation known - translated into a score between 200 and 990. You are also given a percentile rank for your score.

The key to studying for the GRE Literature in English :

The study of ERM in the literature should start around 4 months before the test date. This will give you enough time to concentrate on literary movements and major authors of these movements. ETS states:

- 5% - 10% of the test covers Continental, Classical and Comparative Literature through 1925,

- 25% - 30% covers British literature until 1660,

- 25% - 35% covers British literature from 1660 to 1925

- 15% - 25% covers American literature through 1925,

- And 20% - 30% covers American, British, and literatures of the world after 1925.

Although ETS claims the test covers all the literature, the vast majority of the event will focus on British and American literature. It is also important to familiarize yourself with literary theory, particularly contemporary theories and the people behind them.

One last Tip : 

It is better to focus on understanding the scope and chronology of literary movements, authors associated with these movements, and their best works. Some authors are more important than others, and the resources listed above will help you decide which deserves more study. It is important to remember the great, the first image scanning, and related information supporting these great movements second. Finally, take practice tests as possible before the actual test.