The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a standardized test that is required for most graduate and business school applications. The test measures a candidate's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills. The test is divided into six sections: two Verbal Reasoning sections, two Quantitative Reasoning sections, and two Analytical Writing sections. 

The test is conducted in a computer-based format and is offered year-round at test centers worldwide. The scores are valid for five years. The GRE is a widely accepted test by thousands of graduate and business schools worldwide.

GRE Format

The GRE General Test format is divided into six sections:

• Verbal Reasoning: This section includes two verbal reasoning sections, which measure the candidate's ability to analyze and evaluate written material and to synthesize information obtained from it, to analyze relationships among component parts of sentences and to recognize relationships among words and concepts.
• Quantitative Reasoning: This section includes two quantitative reasoning sections, which measure the candidate's ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information, and to solve problems using mathematical concepts.
• Analytical Writing: This section includes two tasks, an "Analyze an Issue" task and an "Analyze an Argument" task, which measure the candidate's ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support an argument with relevant reasons and examples, and sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion.
• Unscored Section: The GRE test also includes an unscored research section, which may be either a verbal or quantitative section. This section is included to allow ETS to try out new questions.
• Identify section: This section is a part of the GRE test, which is used to verify the candidate's identity, it includes a picture and a few questions to confirm the candidate's identity.
• Break: There is a 10-minute break between the third and fourth sections of the GRE General Test.

The entire test duration is about 3 hours and 45 minutes and the test takers have to answer questions in multiple-choice format. The Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections are each scored on a 130-170 point scale, in one-point increments, and the scores from the two sections are combined to give a score on a 260-340 point scale. The Analytical Writing section is scored on a 0-6 point scale, in half-point increments, with 6 being the highest score.

In the Verbal Reasoning section, there are approximately 40 questions to be answered in a time duration of 60 minutes. The types of questions include reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence. The Quantitative Reasoning section includes 40 questions to be answered in a time duration of 70 minutes. The types of questions include quantitative comparison, problem-solving, and data interpretation.

In the Analytical Writing section, you will be given 30 minutes to write an essay analyzing an issue and 30 minutes to write an essay analyzing an argument. You will have to write your essays on a computer using a basic word-processing program provided by ETS.

It's important to note that the GRE test is adaptive in nature, which means that the difficulty level of the test adjusts based on the test-taker's performance. This means that the test will get harder or easier based on the test taker's correct or incorrect answers.

Here are 10 Tips and Tricks for the GRE:

1. Understand the GRE format: The GRE format includes two Verbal Reasoning sections, two Quantitative Reasoning sections, and two Analytical Writing sections. The Verbal Reasoning sections measure the candidate's ability to analyse and evaluate written material, while the Quantitative Reasoning sections measure the candidate's ability to understand, interpret and analyse quantitative information. The Analytical Writing sections measure the candidate's ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively. Understanding the test format will help you know what to expect on the test day and how to manage your time effectively.
2. Create a study schedule: Creating a study schedule will help you stay on track and take advantage of all essential topics. Make sure to include time for both content review and practice tests. This will also help you to identify areas where you need to improve.
3. Use Official GRE Materials: Official GRE materials such as the ETS website and official GRE guidebooks are the best resources to prepare for the test as they are created by the same organisation that conducts the GRE. Using these materials will give you an idea of the types of questions on the test and will also help you understand the test format better.
4. Practice with sample tests: Taking as many sample GRE tests as possible will give you a sense of the test format and help you identify areas where you need to improve. It will also help you manage your time effectively during the test and improve your test-taking strategies.
5. Brush up on math skills: Basic math concepts such as arithmetic, algebra, and geometry are tested in the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE. Brush up on these concepts by reviewing notes from high school or college math classes or by using math review resources. Practice solving problems and answering questions in these areas to increase your confidence and improve your performance on the test.
6. Improve your vocabulary: Building your vocabulary is essential for the Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE. Reading newspapers, magazines, and novels is one of the best ways to improve your vocabulary. This will expose you to new words and their usage in context. Additionally, you can use flashcards to memorise words and improve your vocabulary.
7. Stay organised: Keeping track of your progress and identifying areas where you need to improve will help you stay organised. Create a study plan, set goals, and track your progress. This will help you stay motivated and focused during the preparation process.
8. Take care of your physical and mental well-being: Staying physically and mentally fit is essential for performing well on the GRE. Make sure to get enough sleep, exercise, and eat well. This will help you stay focused and energised during the preparation and test day.
9. Stay positive and motivated: Preparing for the GRE can be challenging, but staying positive and motivated will help you push through the difficult times. Remember that the GRE is just one aspect of the graduate school application process and is not the only measure of your abilities.
10. Use technology to your advantages, such as mobile apps and online resources, to prepare for the GRE. Some various apps and websites provide practice questions, flashcards, and other study materials. Take advantage of these resources to supplement your preparation and improve your performance.