How is the GRE exam graded and scaled?

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test used for graduate school admissions in the United States and many other countries. The exam consists of three sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Each section is scored separately, and the scores are then combined to determine the final marks. Here is a detailed explanation of how the GRE exam is graded and scaled:

1. Analytical Writing Section:
- This section measures the test taker's ability to articulate complex ideas, analyze arguments, and support claims with evidence.
- The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, with half-point increments.
- Two trained readers independently evaluate each essay, and their scores are averaged to determine the final score.
- If there is a significant difference between the two readers' scores, a third reader evaluates the essay to ensure fairness.

2. Verbal Reasoning Section:
- The Verbal Reasoning section assesses the test taker's ability to understand and analyze written material, evaluate arguments, and recognize relationships between words and concepts.
- The Verbal Reasoning section is scored on a scale of 130 to 170, in one-point increments.
- The score is based on the number of questions answered correctly, and there is no penalty for incorrect answers.
- The difficulty level of the questions adapts based on the test taker's performance during the exam.

3. Quantitative Reasoning Section:
- The Quantitative Reasoning section measures the test taker's ability to analyze and interpret quantitative information, solve mathematical problems, and apply mathematical concepts.
- Similar to the Verbal Reasoning section, the Quantitative Reasoning section is scored on a scale of 130 to 170, in one-point increments.
- The score is based on the number of questions answered correctly, and there is no penalty for incorrect answers.
- The difficulty level of the questions adapts based on the test taker's performance during the exam.

4. Scoring Scale:
- Once the scores for each section are determined, they are converted to a scaled score using a statistical procedure called equating.
- The scaled scores allow for fair comparisons of test taker's performance across different versions of the exam.
- The final scaled scores are reported on a scale of 130 to 170 for both the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections.
- The Analytical Writing section is reported separately on a scale of 0 to 6.

Conclusion:
Understanding how the GRE exam is graded and scaled is essential for test takers to have a clear idea of how their performance will be evaluated. By knowing the scoring process, test-takers can better prepare and strategize for the exam. Remember that the GRE exam is just one component of your graduate school application, and it is important to also focus on other aspects, such as letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and academic achievements.