Taking the first steps towards earning your General Educational Development (GED) certificate marks an important step on the path to realizing your educational and professional aspirations. The GED test proves academic proficiency for those who did not complete high school.
Proper preparation is key to success in this journey, as the test covers a range of subjects including language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The process of getting ready for the GED® test should not be challenging, as we are committed to supporting you at every stage.
As the best platform for the GED® test preparation, prepsaret serves as your all-in-one resource center. Whether you need to sharpen your skills or boost your confidence ahead of the exam, our collection of complementary GED® prep materials is designed to assist you in achieving your goals.
What Is the GED Test
The General Educational Development (GED) test, established in 1942 to support returning World War II soldiers, is a standardized test in the United States tailored for individuals who have not completed high school.
The test consists of four sections: language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Each section is designed to assess your understanding of standard high school curriculum topics. To begin, create your GED account.
Today, the GED serves as a pathway for those without a high school diploma to obtain credentials for career progression or further education. Widely accepted across the nation, the GED test typically spans about seven hours and is renowned for its accessibility and notable success rates.
Recognized by a majority of colleges and universities in the US, GED certification has positively impacted the lives of over 20 million individuals. Research indicates that GED credential holders tend to earn approximately 10-20% more than high school dropouts, although their earnings still fall behind those of high school graduates by around 10-15%.
Rooted in its commitment to serving the American public, the administrative team overseeing the GED test prioritizes accessibility. While currently unavailable in Iowa, Maine, and Tennessee, all essential resources for the test, including study guides and testing details, are conveniently accessible online.
Annually, over 800,000 individuals across the United States take the GED test, with accessibility initiatives playing a key role in boosting the number of individuals achieving their high school equivalency diploma.
Moreover, although the GED exam is not provided free of charge, there exist adaptable payment alternatives to ensure affordability for individuals in need.
The cost of the GED test varies by state in the USA, but generally ranges from $0 to $46 per subject test. Here are some key details:
- In most states, the GED fee is around $30 per subject test. With 4 subject tests, the total price is typically around $120.
- Some states subsidize the test fee or offer free testing for first-time testers. For example, New York, West Virginia, Connecticut, and Maine offer the GED or HiSET test for free.
- Arkansas has the lowest cost at $4 per subject test ($16 total).
- The most expensive states are South Dakota at $50 per subject test ($200 total) and Oregon, Georgia, and Virgin Islands at $46 per subject test ($184 total).
- Connecticut is the only state that offers the GED test for free to residents, with no cost for all 4 subject tests.
While the GED test costs around $120 total in most states, the exact price can vary significantly depending on the state and whether any subsidies or free testing options are available. Checking the specific cost in your state is recommended.
Outline of The GED Exam
The GED test is divided into four main sections:
1.Reasoning Through Language Arts
The GED Language Arts is divided into two subsections: writing and reading. It is designed to measure your contextual comprehension of the English language and English texts, and your writing and reading abilities. 25 percent of the test is prose and literature while 75 percent is nonfiction.
American historical documents frequently appear on the nonfiction part of the language arts test. Each passage you read on the test ranges between 450 and 900 words in length.
The extended response (writing) section requires you to write an essay based on a provided prompt. The reading section tests your comprehension of various texts, while the language section assesses your knowledge of English grammar, usage, and mechanics.
The test takes 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) to complete. It consists of:
- Extended Response (writing): 45 minutes, 1 question
- Reading: 85 minutes, approximately 40-50 questions
- Language: 45 minutes, approximately 20-25 question.
2. Math
The GED Math test takes 115 minutes (1 hour and 55 minutes) to complete. It consists of approximately 46 questions divided into two parts:
- Part 1 (5 minutes, 5 questions): No calculator is allowed. This section tests your basic math skills without the aid of a calculator.
- Part 2 (110 minutes, 41 questions): A calculator is allowed. This section covers more advanced math concepts and problem-solving skills.
The math test covers the following topics:
- Number operations and number sense (20-30%)
- Measurement and geometry (20-30%)
- Data analysis, statistics, and probability (20-30%)
- Algebra, functions, and patterns (20-30%)
It’s important to note that the percentages mentioned above are approximate and may vary slightly from test to test. The GED math test assesses your ability to apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations and solve problems efficiently.
3. Science
The Science section of the GED test is designed to evaluate your grasp of scientific concepts. Each question in this part of the exam corresponds to three main scientific subjects: astronomy and Earth science, physics, and biology.
The test consists of approximately 34 multiple-choice questions and 2 short-answer questions, for a total of around 36 questions.
The test is 90 minutes long and covers three main topics:
- Earth science: 20% of the questions
- Physics: 40% of the questions
- Biology: 40% of the questions
4. Social Studies
The Social Studies section of the GED test not only assesses your understanding of fundamental social studies concepts but also your ability to apply them in real-world contexts.
The test takes approximately 70 minutes to complete, with no breaks during the test. This portion of the exam consists of 50 questions in total, each designed to fit into one of four main topics: economics, civics, geography, and U.S. history.
The distribution of questions across these topics is as follows:
- Economics: 15% of the questions
- Civics: 50% of the questions
- Geography: 15% of the questions
- S. history: 20% of the questions
GED Test Questions Format
The questions on the GED test are presented in a variety of formats to accommodate different learning styles and to assess different skills. These formats include:
- Short answer: Requires a brief written response to a question.
- Multiple-choice: Presents several options from which you must select the correct answer.
- Hot spot: Involves identifying specific points or areas on a diagram or image.
- Fill-in-the-blank: Requires you to fill in a blank space with the correct answer.
- Drop-down: Offers a list of options from which you must select the correct answer.
- Drag-and-drop: Involves rearranging items or selecting answers by dragging them to the correct location.
- Extended response: Requires a longer, more detailed written response to a question, often involving analysis or explanation of a topic or issue.
Breakdown of GED Passing Scores
The GED (General Educational Development) exam is scored on a scale from 100 to 200, with different score ranges indicating various levels of achievement. Here is a breakdown of the GED passing scores and what they signify:
- Below Passing (100-144): Scores falling within this range indicate that the test-taker did not achieve a passing score and would need to retake any subject test where they scored below 145.
- Passing Score (145-164): A score of 145 or higher on each section of the GED exam is required to earn a high school equivalency credential.
- College Ready (165-174): Achieving a score between 165 and 174 demonstrates readiness for college-level courses. Test-takers in this range may be exempt from placement tests or remedial courses in college.
- College Ready + Credit (175-200): Scoring 175 or higher may allow test-takers to earn college credits or skip college entrance exams, depending on the college’s policy.
It’s important to note that each subject test must individually meet or exceed the passing score of 145 to pass overall.
Achieving a high score on the GED exam opens up various educational opportunities, from high school equivalency to college readiness and potential college credit.
Strategies for Effective GED Test Preparation
Preparing for the GED test is crucial for success, and there are several key strategies that can help you effectively prepare for this important exam. Here are some recommended steps to adequately prepare for the GED test:
- Understand the Test Format:
- Familiarize yourself with the format of the GED test, which includes four subject areas: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. Knowing the structure of the test will help you focus your study efforts.
- Create a Study Schedule:
- Develop a study schedule that allows you to allocate time for each subject area. Consistent and structured study sessions will help you cover all the necessary material and stay on track with your preparation.
- Use Quality GED Study Materials:
- Utilize quality GED study materials provided by Prepsaret.com. These materials are specifically designed to help you prepare for the test and familiarize yourself with the types of questions you will encounter.
- Practice with Sample Questions:
- Practice with sample questions to assess your knowledge and identify areas where you need to focus your study efforts. This will help you become more comfortable with the test format and improve your test-taking skills.
- Seek Additional Resources:
- Consider seeking additional resources such as online study guides, free practice tests, and tutoring services to supplement your preparation. These resources can provide extra support and help you strengthen your understanding of the test material.
- Review and Revise:
- Regularly review the material you have studied and revise any concepts that you find challenging. Repetition is key to retaining information and improving your performance on the GED test.
- Take Practice Tests:
- Take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the test environment and improve your time management skills. Practicing with timed tests will help you become more efficient at answering questions within the allotted time.
- Stay Positive and Motivated:
- Maintain a positive attitude throughout your preparation and stay motivated to achieve your goal of passing the GED test. Believe in your abilities and stay focused on your study plan to increase your chances of success.
By following these recommended steps and dedicating time and effort to your preparation, you can adequately prepare for the GED test and increase your chances of achieving a passing score.
GED® Test Prep Course & Practice Resources
Wondering how you’d prepare for the GED exam? Start by enrolling in a GED Test Prep Course. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the test. It covers all subjects tested in the GED® exam, including Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts.
With a focus on thorough preparation and practice, the test prep course will provide interactive lessons, practice tests, and study materials to enhance your understanding and confidence.
Your practice test score serves as a baseline, guiding the development of a study plan tailored to your needs. It illuminates your strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to craft a detailed action plan for score improvement.
By enrolling in a GED® Test Prep course, you can boost your chances of passing the exam and achieving their academic goals efficiently. Additionally, engaging in practice tests familiarizes you with the exam’s sections and content, reducing the likelihood of unexpected surprises and averting potential disappointment.
GED Math Test Prep Course
Preparing for the GED Math test can be a challenging task, but with the right resources and strategies, you can increase your chances of success. Prepsaret.com offers a valuable online GED Math prep course to help you get ready for the exam.
The course includes comprehensive review lessons covering every topic with over 2000 quizzes in all lessons and 2000 GED practice questions. With this course, you’ll have access to any and every resource you might need while studying for the GED Math test.
Designed to accommodate self-paced learning, this course is accessible from any location with an internet connection. Key topics covered in these online GED Math course include:
Arithmetic
- Whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
- Real-life problems involving arithmetic
- Integers and rational numbers
Algebra
- Algebraic expressions
- Equations and inequalities
Geometry
- Two-dimensional figures (area and perimeter)
- Three-dimensional figures (volume and surface area)
- Coordinate geometry
Data Analysis
- Graphical data (graphs, tables, etc.)
- Measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode, and range)
To adequately prepare for the GED Math test, it is recommended to:
- Enroll in a GED Math prep course for structured guidance and support.
- Take practice tests to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Focus on weak areas by reviewing the corresponding lessons and doing additional practice problems.
- Practice applying math skills to real-life situations.
- Attend all GED math prep lessons.
Following this GED Math study guide and dedicating time to focused practice, you can increase your chances of passing the GED Math test and achieving your educational goals.
GED Language Arts Test Prep Course
The GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Test evaluates crucial reading and writing abilities vital for academic and professional achievement. It emphasizes efficient reading, critical reading, argument identification, coherent writing, and proficiency in grammar and language skills.
Effective preparation for the GED Language Arts test necessitates a methodical approach and the availability of quality resources.
Enrolling at Prepsaret.com offers you the chance to access a comprehensive range of high-quality study materials which covers major topics and skills tested in the actual GED test.
These topics include:
Reading for Meaning
- Understanding the main idea and supporting details in passages.
- Practicing to identify arguments and evaluate their validity.
- Enhancing skills in comparing and contrasting information.
Grammar and Language
- Improving sentence structure, subject-verb agreement, and pronoun-antecedent agreement.
- Mastering capitalization, punctuation, and possessives.
- Developing appropriate word choice and eliminating informal language usage.
Extended Response Writing
- Composing a well-structured argument supported by evidence from the text.
- Organizing ideas logically and cohesively.
- Using advanced word choice and making effective transitions in writing.
These topics are discussed extensively in different lessons. Each lesson provides examples to reinforce the concepts covered. Additionally, Prepsaret.com offers practice questions with explained answers to improve understanding among students.
The practice questions are presented in formats similar to the actual test, such as:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Drag and drop
- Select an area
- Drop down
Practicing with these various question types helps build confidence and efficiency in answering them. By focusing on these key topics, students can effectively prepare for the RLA GED test, improve their reading and writing skills, and increase their chances of success in obtaining a high school equivalency diploma.
GED® Social Studies Test Prep Course
Prepsaret offers a comprehensive GED® Social Studies test preparation course, equipping you with important study resources, valuable tips, and practice exams to enhance your readiness for the GED Social Studies test. The GED Social Studies test prep course covers a wide range of topics across four main content areas:
Civics and Government (50%)
- Types of government structures, both modern and historic
- Constitutional government
- Levels and branches of the U.S. government
- The electoral system
- Public policy
- The role of the citizen
U.S. History (20%)
- Colonization
- The American Revolution
- The Civil War and Reconstruction
- Industrialization
- Immigration
- World Wars I & II
- The Cold War
- American foreign policy
- Movements for equal rights
Economics (15%)
- Basic economic concepts and systems
- The government and the economy
- Labor and consumer economics issues
Geography and the World (15%)
- Major stages in world history
- Ancient civilizations
- Human migration
- Geographical borders between nations
- The relationship among resources, the environment, and societies
The course focuses on developing the essential skills needed to succeed on the GED Social Studies test. Each lesson covers the topics in depth and includes end-of-lesson quizzes to assess your understanding.
Additionally, practice test questions are provided at the end of the course. These practice questions are crucial because they target the key skills that are evaluated on the GED Social Studies exam.
The skills emphasized in the practice questions include:
- Determining central ideas, inferences, hypotheses, and conclusions
- Analyzing words, events, and ideas in social studies contexts
- Analyzing author’s purpose and point of view
- Evaluating author’s reasoning and evidence
- Analyzing and integrating relationships within and between social studies materials
- Interpreting data and statistics in graphs and charts
- Finding the center in a statistical data set, including average, median, and mode
By thoroughly understanding these topics and skills with the GED Social Studies test preparation course, you’ll be fully equipped to excel on the exam.
GED® Science Test Prep and Practice Test
The GED Science Test is designed to assess your knowledge and skills across three key areas: life science, physical science, and Earth and space science. To support your preparation for this test, we have developed a comprehensive Science Test Prep Course.
The course includes detailed study notes covering the key areas in Science along with practice tests to help you assess your understanding of these essential concepts.
Course Outline
Our Science Test Prep Course covers the following topics:
Life Science
- Cell structure and function
- Genetics and heredity
- Evolution and natural selection
- Ecology and the environment
Physical Science
- Matter and energy
- Motion and force
- Waves and optics
- Electricity and magnetism
Earth and Space Science
- Earth’s structure and processes
- Weather and climate
- The solar system and the universe
Practice Test
Our practice test is designed to simulate the actual GED® Science Test. It includes 30 multiple-choice questions that cover the topics covered in the lessons. The practice test is timed and scored, so you can get a feel for the real test experience.
After completing the practice test, you will receive a detailed score report that identifies your strengths and weaknesses. This information can help you focus your study efforts on the areas where you need the most improvement.
Advantages of Taking a GED® Test Prep Course
Enrolling in a GED® test prep course with Prepsare.com offers numerous advantages for those aiming to pass the GED® exam.
- Comprehensive coverage: Our study materials and practice test cover all the topics you need to know for the GED® Test.
- The course covers each subject area, helping students understand their strengths and weaknesses, and prepare them to pass the four GED tests: Reasoning through Language Arts, Social Studies, Mathematical Reasoning, and Science.
- Our GED lessons improve the ability to understand, analyze, and assess written information, apply knowledge to everyday situations, and build academic skills to prepare for college classes.
- Taking our GED prep course significantly improves the odds of passing the GED test, leading to enhanced earning potential and opening doors to higher education and better job opportunities. Approximately 43% of people who pass the GED gain acceptance into postsecondary programs.
- Realistic practice: Our practice test is designed to simulate the actual GED® Test, giving you a realistic practice experience.
- Convenient access: Our study guide and practice test are accessible online, allowing you to use them on your phone, tablet, or desktop computer whenever and wherever you need them.
Ready to start your GED Test Prep? Register here.
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FAQS
How Do I Prepare Myself for the Ged Test?
To prepare for the GED test, study daily for at least 30 minutes, eliminate distractions, get ready the night before, ensure a good night’s sleep, eat a nutritious breakfast, arrive early on test day, and practice with GED prep questions.
Focus on understanding concepts, use free online resources, and simulate test conditions to build confidence and readiness for each subject. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the test format and question types to lower anxiety and improve performance on test day.
What Is the Best Ged Test Prep?
The best GED test prep involves a combination of resources. Prepsaret offers a comprehensive online prep course with review lessons, practice questions and excellent answer explanations.
How Hard Is It to Pass the Ged Test?
Passing the GED test can be challenging, but with preparation and dedication, it is achievable. The test covers various subjects like math, language arts, science, and social studies. Success depends on personal effort and readiness.
What Is the Hardest Section of the Ged Test?
The hardest section of the GED test varies among individuals, with many finding Mathematics the most challenging due to its lower pass rate.
However, some may struggle with other sections like Reasoning through Language Arts or Science. It’s recommended to save the most concerning section for last to build confidence. Preparation and practice tests are crucial for success
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