The subjects in the GRE exam refer to the three core sections of the GRE General Test: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. These are not academic disciplines but skill-based areas designed to measure readiness for graduate-level work. The subjects in the GRE exam assess critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—not mastery of specific content like history or biology.
Verbal Reasoning evaluates your ability to understand written material, analyze arguments, and recognize relationships among words. Question types include Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence.
Quantitative Reasoning covers high school–level math: arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. It tests your ability to interpret graphs, solve word problems, and apply quantitative methods—without requiring calculus or advanced theory.
Analytical Writing consists of two tasks: “Analyze an Issue” and “Analyze an Argument.” This section measures how well you articulate and support complex ideas in writing.
Clarifying Subject Tests vs. General Test Sections
Do not confuse the subjects in the GRE exam (General Test sections) with the separate GRE Subject Tests—which are content-specific exams in Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. Unless your program explicitly requires a Subject Test, you only need to prepare for the three standard subjects in the GRE exam.
ETS designs the General Test to be accessible to all academic backgrounds. No prior coursework in literature, math, or rhetoric is required—only foundational reasoning skills.
Each of the three subjects contributes to your overall profile. Programs weigh them differently: engineering may prioritize Quant, while humanities emphasize Verbal and Writing.
Understanding these sections helps you focus your preparation effectively.
Success comes from mastering reasoning—not memorizing academic subjects.