How to Prepare for the Ged| K-12 Schools

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Thorough preparation is important for success in the GED exam, especially considering its increasing level of difficulty. Adequate preparation is essential not only to boost confidence but also to gain a thorough understanding of the exam’s structure and content. This preparation significantly enhances the likelihood of passing the GED exam.

Several preparation methods exist, including ,enrolling in online GED prep courses, and attending In Person GED classes. 

The most effective way to prepare for the GED is by enrolling in online GED prep courses. Prepsaret offers comprehensive online study materials and resources across all subjects to help you succeed in your GED preparation.

By following the online GED test prep course, and dedicating yourself to consistency, you can approach the GED test with confidence and achieve your goals.

What To Study for the Test

The test covers a wide range of subjects, including Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. Each section requires a solid understanding of concepts and the ability to apply critical thinking skills.

Reasoning Through Language Arts GED Test Prep

The Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) section of the GED consists of multiple-choice questions that generally take 150 minutes to complete. This section  tests your reading comprehension, writing skills, and ability to analyze arguments.

Test-takers are required to read excerpts from literary and informational sources and answer related questions. You can Set yourself up for success on this exam by focusing your studies on these topics:

Reading Skills

  • Practice reading a variety of texts, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama
  • Use active reading strategies like annotating the text, making predictions, and asking questions
  • Work on identifying main ideas, supporting details, and the author’s purpose and perspective

Writing Skills

  • Practice writing essays on a variety of topics, focusing on organization, development of ideas, and proper grammar and mechanics
  • Learn how to write an effective thesis statement and topic sentences
  • Practice revising and editing your own writing

Analyzing Arguments

  • Learn how to identify the claim, reasons, and evidence in an argument
  • Practice evaluating the validity and strength of arguments
  • Learn how to write an effective argumentative essay that supports your position with evidence

Prepsaret offers study notes, quick quizzes for each topic, and GED language arts practice test to help you assess your knowledge before the exam. The 12 practice tests closely simulate the GED exam questions. Consistently using these resources can significantly improve your chances of passing the test.

Quick Tips for Taking the RLA Actual Test

  • Read the question before reading the passage.
  • Restate the question in your own words.
  • If unsure, eliminate options to make an educated guess.
  • Summarize paragraphs as you read them.

Mathematical Reasoning GED Test Prep

The GED Mathematical Reasoning test includes multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, drag-and-drop, and other question formats, with 115 minutes allotted for completion.

 All questions require quantitative or algebraic problem-solving skills, covering topics such as the quadratic formula, perimeter, mean, or median. Here are key topics to focus on when studying for this test:

Number Operations

  • Practice basic operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages
  • Learn how to estimate and round numbers
  • Practice solving real-world problems involving number operations

Algebra

  • Learn how to solve linear equations and inequalities
  • Practice graphing linear equations and inequalities
  • Learn how to solve systems of equations

Geometry

  • Learn how to calculate the area, perimeter, and volume of various shapes
  • Practice solving problems involving angles and triangles
  • Learn how to use the Pythagorean Theorem

Data Analysis

  • Learn how to read and interpret graphs and charts
  • Practice calculating measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode)
  • Learn how to calculate probabilities and odds

Calculator

The calculator is crucial for the GED Mathematical Reasoning test. The test is divided into two parts – the first five questions do not allow the calculator, while the remaining 41 questions provide an on-screen graphing calculator. 

In the second part, the calculator is crucial for swift, precise computations, enabling focus on understanding, selecting operations, and solving accurately.

It’s crucial to undergo a calculator tutorial, familiarize yourself with its features during your preparation, and practice integrating it smoothly into your problem-solving process to enhance proficiency.

Develop strategies for efficiently inputting data, performing calculations, and interpreting the results. The more fluent you become with the calculator, the more you can leverage its capabilities to your advantage on test day.

After studying, gauge your progress by taking the GED Math Practice Test.

Science GED Test Prep

The Science section of the GED test evaluates your understanding of life science, physical science, and Earth and space science. Within 90 minutes, you are required to answer questions on topics such as earth science, life science, and physical science. 

Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Life Science

  • Learn about the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs
  • Study the theory of evolution and natural selection
  • Learn about the human body systems and how they function

Physical Science

  • Learn about the properties of matter and the periodic table
  • Study the laws of motion and energy
  • Learn about electricity, magnetism, and waves

Earth and Space Science

  • Learn about the structure and composition of the Earth
  • Study the water cycle and weather patterns
  • Learn about the solar system and the universe

Scientific Reasoning

  • Learn how to read and interpret scientific charts, graphs, and diagrams
  • Practice analyzing scientific experiments and drawing conclusions
  • Learn how to apply scientific principles to real-world problems

The GED test prep course provides comprehensive notes and practice quizzes for the Science section. Devoting one hour daily to studying science can significantly improve your chances of passing the test. You can also assess your understanding of the content by taking the GED Science Practice Test.

Quick Tips for Taking the Science Actual Test

  • Differentiate between dependent and independent variables. 
  • Review questions before reading passages or data sets. 
  • If you struggle with a question, skip it and return to it later in the exam.
  • Note trends from graphs and tables—they convey essential data insights.

Social Studies GED Test Prep

The Social Studies section of the GED covers U.S. history, world history, civics and government, economics, and geography. You’ll have 70 minutes to answer questions on this test, similar to the language arts exam where questions may be based on passages or historical documents. 

To prepare for the test effectively, focus on these topics:

U.S. History

  • Learn about key events and figures in American history
  • Study the causes and effects of major historical events
  • Learn about the development of American government and society

World History

  • Learn about major civilizations and empires throughout history
  • Study the causes and effects of global conflicts
  • Learn about the development of world religions and philosophies

Civics and Government

  • Learn about the structure and function of American government
  • Study the Bill of Rights and other important documents
  • Learn about the rights and responsibilities of citizens

Economics

  • Learn about basic economic principles and theories
  • Study the role of government in the economy
  • Learn about personal finance and budgeting

Geography

  • Learn about the physical features and climate of different regions
  • Study the distribution of natural resources and population
  • Learn about the impact of geography on human societies

After finishing your study sessions, you can evaluate your understanding by taking the GED Social Studies Practice Test.

By focusing on these key areas and practicing regularly, you can improve your chances of success on the GED exam.

Additional Resources: Free Questions  

The best GED prep course

Take the GED Official Ready Practice Test

The official GED Ready is an official practice test created by the GED Testing Service, the same organization that develops the real GED exam.

It is also an excellent tool for preparing for the GED test, closely simulating the format, content, and difficulty level of the actual exam across all four subject areas.

Benefits of the GED Ready Practice Test

Assessing Readiness: By taking the GED Ready, students can get a realistic prediction of how they would score on the real GED exam. This helps them identify their strengths and weaknesses.

Targeted Preparation: The detailed performance feedback from the GED Ready allows students to pinpoint the specific content domains or skills they need to focus on improving through further study and practice.

Confidence Building: Seeing their predicted GED score can give students a better sense of their preparedness and boost their confidence going into the actual exam.

Authentic Experience: The GED Ready provides an authentic testing experience, helping students get comfortable with the format, question types, and time constraints of the real GED.

Cost of the official GED Ready Practice Tests

The GED Ready practice test costs $6.99 per subject or $27.96 for all four subjects (Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies) 

Therefore, the GED Official Ready practice test is an invaluable tool for GED candidates. Developed by the GED Testing Service, it provides an authentic simulation of the exam, allowing students to assess their readiness, identify weaknesses, and build confidence.

How Can I Determine My Strengths and Weaknesses in Ged Subjects?

Take a Full-Length Practice Test

The best way to identify your strengths and weaknesses is to take a comprehensive practice test that covers all four GED subject areas – Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies.

When taking the practice test:

  • Time yourself to simulate the actual test conditions.
  • Pay close attention to the subject areas and question types where you struggle the most.
  • Note which content areas or skills you find the most challenging.
  • Analyze your performance on each section to pinpoint your weak spots.

Review Your Practice Test Results

After completing the practice test, thoroughly review your performance:

  • Identify the subject areas where you scored the lowest. These are likely your weakest areas.
  • Look at the types of questions you missed – was it reading comprehension, math word problems, interpreting data, etc.? This can reveal specific skill gaps.
  • Examine any patterns in your mistakes, such as frequently misreading questions, making careless calculation errors, or struggling with certain math concepts.
  • Assess your timing – did you have trouble finishing a section within the time limit?

FAQs

What Is the Best Way to Prepare for Ged?

The best way to prepare for the GED is to focus on the four main subject areas: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Utilize official GED practice tests to identify strengths and weaknesses, and create a study plan accordingly.

Engage in regular practice, review key concepts, and work on improving weak areas. Consider enrolling in a GED preparation course or working with a tutor for personalized guidance. 

Maintain a positive attitude, stay motivated, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. With consistent effort and dedication, you can successfully prepare for and pass the GED exam.

What Is the Hardest Subject in the Ged?

The hardest subject in the GED varies for each person, as it depends on their strengths and weaknesses. However, Mathematical Reasoning is often considered the most challenging section due to its focus on algebra, geometry, and data analysis. 

Proper preparation, practice tests, and seeking help when needed can help overcome difficulties in any GED subject area.

How Long Should I Study for the Ged?

The amount of time needed to prepare for the GED varies depending on your current knowledge and study habits. Most students spend 2-3 months studying for the GED, dedicating 2-3 hours per day to review key concepts and practice questions.

 However, some may need more or less time based on their strengths and weaknesses in the four subject areas. Consistent practice, taking practice tests, and seeking help when needed are crucial for success on the GED exam

What Should I Study First for Ged?

When preparing for the GED, it’s best to start with the subject area you feel most comfortable with or the one that aligns with your strengths. Many students find Reasoning through Language Arts the easiest to tackle first, as it focuses on reading comprehension, writing, and grammar skills that are often more familiar. 

However, the order in which you study the subjects ultimately depends on your individual learning style and needs. The key is to create a study plan that allows you to focus on your weaknesses while maintaining motivation by starting with your strengths. 

How Long Does Prepsaret Subscription Last?

Prepsaret GED prep subscription last for one month. The monthly subscription provides 30 days of access. This allows you ample time to prepare for and take the GED exam at your own pace.

How Does Prepsaret Stay Updated with Changes in the Ged Exam Format and Content?

Prepsaret continuously updates its GED prep program to align with the latest exam format and content changes. Their team of experts closely monitors updates from the GED Testing Service and promptly incorporates them into the curriculum. 

By adapting their program to evolving test requirements, Prepsaret helps its users acquire the essential skills and knowledge needed to pass the GED, even as the exam structure and content evolve over time.