Customer Reviews

Cracking the GRE with CD-ROM, 2001 Edition (Cracking the Gre With Sample Tests on DVD)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I purchased this book to use the CD exclusively - I had several other publications I used as study guides. So, my review is only of the GRE Diagnostic Software included on the CD. In comparision with the TestPrep software that ETS sells, this was far inferior. I was shocked after taking the test the first time to see how incredibly low my scores were. In fact, my score on the quantitative part of the Princeton Review software was 190 points lower than my score on that same section on the ETS TestPrep software. Fortunately for me, the ETS software was incredibly close to the scores I earned when I took the actual test. Perhaps my experience was unusual, however, I would not rely on the results from the software included in this package alone. Definitely make sure to purchase the GRE TestPrep software since it is exactly the same as what is used when the test is administered and based on my experience the scoring is much more accurate and reliable.

The material contained within the book itself is very useful in terms of explaining what the GRE is and how it works. As an Australian preparing to take the test, this was one of only three books that were available in our domestic book stores, and under the circumstances was the best. I agree that the scoring on the software component of this product is a little inconsistent. I didn't use any other software program, and was therefore surprised when my actual GRE scores far surpassed those achieved in rehersal in a positive range of 90 to 140 points. Do not buy this book for the software, but for the information and strategic tips it provides. Recently when in the US, I noticed that earlier editions of the book sold for approximately a quarter of the price of the 2001 edition. The funny thing is that there is minimal difference in the information provided in the previous edition, and that most of the questions are the same. If you can, get your hands on a cheaper copy, but ensure that it is for the computerised examination and not the outdates written format. I have given the book 4 stars and not bothered to rate the software.

I used a few other GRE books before this one and then I took a practice test. The scores were abysmal and then I got the Princeton Review Cracking the GRE about a week before I took the CBT. I learned a lot about how to take the exam and how it is scored. The sample questions were exactly what I found in my actual test, especially those in the analytical section. My actual score was great and I strongly feel that this book had a lot to do with it. Other books didn't discuss how to take the exam like this one and focused mainly on practice questions. I recommend this book to all of my friends.

The book came highly recommened and I was not disappointed. It gives detailed explanation of structure of the GRE, tips and tricks for cracking the exam. I took a practice test before and after using the book and my score improved tremenduously and when I took the GRE, my score was impressive.

Though I've taken numerous standardized tests before, its been quite some time since I was required one. This packet was an excellent, excellent refresher, and I imagine will help to bump my score up a few points as well.

The text itself is useful in its hints and strategies. And I thought that the software was a really nice edition. If for no other reason, it forces you to adapt to a computer type test, where you must learn to work away from the question...

Overall, I thought that this was an excellent review source. I could find no fault in its methodology or material. I would like to say that you would probably benifit more from such a review if you took the time to review well ahead of time (a month or two?) instead of last minute... Just a thought.

This book did wonders for me. I never knew half the secrets they let me in on. You're definitely learning how to take the test as opposed to learning the material but who cares? Schools shouldn't pay attention to the GRE but they do so why not use all the advantages you can get? I especially benefitted from the analytical section. I was horrible at figuring out those stupid games. Why would I take so much consideration in the fact that Beth doesn't want to sit next to Sue? Have her sit on the floor if she doesn't like it. But to please those admissions people I will work through their differences with the help of this book.

If you are looking for a guide with strategies on how to take the test, as well as excellent practice software, this Princeton Review guide is adequate, though there are better guides available. Kaplan's guide is superior both in terms of strategy and software.... Also excellent is Jeff Kolby's Prep Course.... I agree with other reviewers that the Princeton Review guide's practice questions (both in book and software) are easier than the actual exam questions. This is particularly dangerous in potentially creating a false sense of security. My recommendation is that you pick up the Kaplan guide (which has excellent tuturial software) or Kolby's guide instead of this one. In any case you should definately take practice exams with ETS's POWERPREP software which should be sent to you when you register and is also available from ...(this website)

While others keep practicing you with numbers of question. This one prepare you with strategies, and understanding what ETS thought.

Grab this one if you don't have much time