The GRE® General Test measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills that have been acquired over a long period of time and that are not related to any specific field of study.

Verbal Reasoning — The skills measured include the test taker’s ability to:

• Analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information obtained from it
• Analyze relationships among component parts of sentences
• Recognize relationships between words and concepts

Quantitative Reasoning — The skills measured include the test taker’s ability to:

• Understand basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis
• Reason quantitatively
• Solve problems in a quantitative setting

Analytical Writing — The skills measured include the test taker’s ability to:

• Articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively
• Examine claims and accompanying evidence
• Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples
• Sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion
• Control the elements of standard written English