Wondering "is GRE all multiple choice?" The answer is no. While the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are entirely multiple-choice (or numeric entry), the Analytical Writing section requires two typed essays. In the 2025 shorter GRE (1 hour 58 minutes total), ETS balances 54 MCQ-style questions across Verbal (27) and Quant (27) with 2 essay tasks (30 minutes each). This mix tests critical thinking beyond picking A–E: Verbal includes select-in-passage clicks, Quant demands direct number inputs, and Writing scores logic/structure (0–6). Over 500,000 annual takers navigate this hybrid format, with averages of 150.3 Verbal and 153.4 Quant. For US MS/MBA hopefuls, mastering non-MCQ elements is key to 320+ totals. This guide breaks down each section’s format, question styles, and 2025 strategies to ace the GRE’s blend.
GRE Verbal Reasoning: 100% Multiple Choice with Twists
Both 41-minute Verbal sections (total 27 questions) use MCQ formats:
- Reading Comprehension (13–15 questions): 1–5 passages; choose 1–3 correct answers or select-in-passage (click sentence in text).
- Text Completion (6–7 questions): 1–3 blanks; pick one word/phrase per blank from 5 options.
- Sentence Equivalence (4–5 questions): Choose 2 out of 6 words that fit and mean the same. No full essay here—just MCQ, but dual-select and passage-clicking demand nuance. 150 Verbal = ~18 correct.
GRE Quantitative Reasoning: Mostly Multiple Choice, Some Numeric Entry
Two 35-minute Quant sections (27 questions total) mix:
- Multiple Choice (15–18 questions): Pick 1 from 5 options (e.g., algebra, geometry).
- Multiple Choice, Select All (3–4 questions): Choose 1+ correct (e.g., "Which are prime?").
- Numeric Entry (5–6 questions): Type exact answer (fraction, decimal, or integer)—no options. Example: "If x+3=7 x + 3 = 7 x+3=7, what is x x x? → [4]". On-screen calculator in Section 2 only. 150 Quant = ~20 correct—mental math rules.
GRE Analytical Writing: Zero Multiple Choice—Pure Essays
One 30-minute section, two typed tasks (not MCQ):
- Issue Task: Build argument on a prompt (e.g., "Tech harms society?").
- Argument Task: Critique flaws in a short logic piece. 500–600 words each; graded 0–6 on reasoning, evidence, and grammar. Average 3.5—top MS programs want 4.5+. Keyboard-only; no spell-check.
Why GRE Isn’t All Multiple Choice: Testing Real Grad Skills
MCQ sections adaptive—correct answers unlock harder ones. Essays reveal writing absent in A/B/C picks. ETS data: 40% struggle more with essays than Quant. For non-natives, typed English under time is toughest.
Prep Strategies for GRE’s Mixed Formats in 2025
- MCQ Mastery: Practice 500+ via Magoosh—focus select-all traps.
- Numeric Entry: Drill fractions/decimals on Khan Academy.
- Essays: Write 1/week; use ETS ScoreItNow ($20) for feedback. Template: thesis → 2 examples → conclusion.
- Mocks: 5+ ETS PowerPrep—mimic typing + clicking.
- Time: Finish Verbal 3 min early for review. With 8–12 weeks (10 hrs/week), jump from 290 to 315+.
In short, no—the GRE is not all multiple choice. Verbal/Quant lean MCQ with interactive twists, but Writing’s essays demand prose. Balance both for MIT, Stanford, or NYU admits—start prepping today!