As of this publication, ETS is trying out one new Math question type and one new Verbal question type on the computer-based GRE General Test. If you take the test on computer, you may see one of these question types, but not both. As this book goes to press, these new questions are unscored, but that will likely change at some point in the future. Therefore, be sure to go to www.gre.org for the latest information as your test date approaches.

Here’s a brief look at these first new question types to debut on the GRE.

This question type requires you to enter a numeric answer either into a single box, or into two boxes for answers in fraction form. The math in these questions is the same as that tested in the standard Problem Solving question type you’ve learned about in this book. The major difference is that the choices will be missing, and you’ll have to enter your answer using the computer’s mouse and keyboard. You’ll need to pay careful attention to rounding instructions, and to the units required for the answer. For example, if you calculate an answer as 17.62 but they ask for the answer to be rounded to the nearest integer, you must enter 18 into the box to receive credit. Similarly, if a problem is worded in feet, but the word yards appears after the entry box, you must be sure to convert your answer into yards or you’ll get the question wrong.

Here’s an example of what a Numeric Entry question will look like if you come across one on your test:

In case you’re wondering, the answer is 50. At the rates indicated, Machine A will add 20 bolts to the tally, Machine B will add 60, and Machine C will dismantle 30, for a net gain of 50 bolts.

Text Completions are basically ramped-up versions of Sentence Completions. However, the differences are significant: Instead of consisting of a single sentence with one or two blanks, Text Completions are one to five sentences in length and contain either two or three blanks. Moreover, each blank comes with an independent list of three words or phrases to choose from to fill the blank. We say independent because unlike Sentence Completions, what you select for one blank does not influence what you choose for the others. Naturally, the words you select must work together to create a coherent sentence or short paragraph, and all of your selections must be correct to receive credit. In other words, there is no partial credit—you must answer each blank correctly to get the point.

An example will clarify what this new question type is all about. Try this one:

The correct answers are fervently, perfidy, and breaches.

The information here is correct as of the date of publication. For more information, strategies, sample questions, and updates on plans for these and other new GRE question types, go to www.gre.org.