Usually enough time per question on the GRE is allocated - approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds per question, but timing varies slightly by section. In the Verbal Reasoning section, you face 20 questions in 30 minutes, giving you 1.5 minutes (90 seconds) per question. In Quantitative Reasoning, you get 20 questions in 35 minutes, allowing about 1 minute and 45 seconds per question.
The Analytical Writing section includes two tasks—“Analyze an Issue” and “Analyze an Argument”—with 30 minutes allotted for each. While not divided into discrete questions, this translates to structured planning, writing, and editing within a half-hour window.
Because the GRE is section-adaptive, pacing in the first section affects both your confidence and the difficulty of the second. Rushing may lead to avoidable errors; lingering too long risks incomplete sections—which heavily penalize your score.
Strategic Timing Across Question Types
Not all GRE questions take the same amount of time. Quantitative Comparison questions often require less time than complex Data Interpretation sets. Similarly, Text Completion with one blank is usually faster than a three-blank version or Reading Comprehension passages.
ETS designs the test so that average time per question is achievable with practice. However, successful test takers don’t treat every question equally. They skip harder items temporarily and return if time allows—maximizing points per minute.
Using a timer during practice builds instinct for pacing. Aim to finish each section with 1–2 minutes remaining for review. Never sacrifice accuracy for speed, but avoid spending more than 2.5 minutes on any single question.
Effective time management turns solid knowledge into high scores. The official time per question on the GRE is generous—if used wisely.
Mastering pacing is as crucial as mastering content on this exam.