What skills does the test measure?

Answer 1

The Quantitative (math) section measures simple math concepts up to Algebra and Geometry and how carefully you can answer questions. I, as well as many other tutors like to say that GRE math is a reading test. ETS (the company that makes the GRE) writes tricky questions that either trap you into giving the wrong answer or spend too much time on one question. So it's very important that you understand exactly what each question is asking and not waste time.

The Verbal section measures logical thinking, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. You need strong reading comprehension for almost every question on the Verbal section of the test so you can understand the sentences and paragraphs well. Logical thinking is of course necessary to evaluate the logical structures of sentences and the theme behind a paragraph. Lastly, if you encounter a question where you don't know many of the words, you are very unlikely to answer that question correctly.

The Writing section measures how well you can evaluate and construct logical arguments, and how well you can strike the balance between clear and impressive writing.

Across all three sections, time management is perhaps the most important skill, which can only be developed through lots of practice. You need to know which questions to skip and when to move on.

Let me know if this answers your question.