Cracking the GRE Literature in English Subject Test, 6th Edition (Graduate School Test Preparation)

 (5 customer reviews)

In general, I found this text useful. More than anything, it gave me a better understanding of the thought process behind the test. I am used to standardized exams in which the test taker is expected to have a decent chance of answering a large percentage of the questions; the GRE in Literature does not operate under the same principle. After reading this booklet, I understood that the GRE in Literature is not something you're supposed to master; it's something you are supposed to survive. That tip alone helped me prepare mentally for the exam.

In terms of actual test prep material, the book provides very basic breakdowns of the items you are most likely to see on the test. The book's explanations are generally helpful. Additionally, the book has a playful style which makes reading the whole thing easier. This feels more like studying with an entertaining and knowledgeable friend than with a dry and stuff professor.

However, the book does have some serious flaws...Read more

This book is pretty good if you want to study for the GRE Literature in English Subject test. The most helpful part of this book is that it gives 'A', 'B' and 'C' lists of material that is likely to show up on the exam. It also summarizes some of the more important works. The book basically acts as a study guide as well as a strategy guide for the test. Not only does it talk about the works and authors one should know, it also gives tips on how to answer questions on the test that one doesn't know.

Along with this book, you MUST get certain books in the Norton Anthology series (Middle Ages, Romantic Age, Victorian Age and Modern Age). Even the book recommends that you do this.

Other helpful books for the GRE Literature in English Subject test include Longman Guide to Shakespeare's Characters: A Who's Who of...Read more

This book isn't perfect, but I found it quite useful. It helped me focus my studies, instead of just trying to reread every piece of literature ever written. It also helped me prepare psychologically by showing me what the test looks like and helping me pace myself. After I took the practice test, I felt much calmer going in to take the actual exam.