The GED (General Education Development) test is a high school equivalency exam that measures the skills and knowledge typically acquired through four years of high school. The test is designed to assess whether a person has the academic skills and knowledge needed to pursue higher education, training, or employment opportunities. The GED test covers four subjects: Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. The test is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats, depending on the testing location.
The GED test is a great option for individuals who did not complete high school but want to earn a high school equivalency diploma. The GED test is accepted by nearly all colleges and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma. In addition, taking and passing the GED test can help individuals qualify for better job opportunities and higher salaries. The GED test is also a great option for individuals who want to continue their education but lack a high school diploma.
The GED test is not an easy exam, and it requires significant preparation to achieve success. This article will focus on one aspect of the GED test: the length of each test section. Understanding the length of each test section is essential for developing a successful GED test-taking strategy. Let’s explore the GED test format and the length of each test section.
The Four Subjects of the GED Test
The GED test is designed to measure high school-level knowledge and skills in four main subject areas: Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Each of these subjects has a designated test, and test-takers must pass all four tests to earn their GED credential.
The Reasoning Through Language Arts test is 150 minutes long and includes multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and an essay prompt. It measures a test-taker’s ability to read and comprehend texts, analyze arguments, and use written communication effectively.
The Mathematical Reasoning test is 115 minutes long and also includes multiple-choice questions and short answer questions. It assesses a test-taker’s ability to solve mathematical problems, interpret data, and use mathematical reasoning to solve real-world problems.
The Science test is 90 minutes long and consists of multiple-choice questions. It measures a test-taker’s understanding of science concepts, including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space science.
The Social Studies test is 90 minutes long and consists of multiple-choice questions. It assesses a test-taker’s knowledge of history, geography, economics, and civics.
Overall, the GED test is approximately 7.5 hours long, including breaks between each subject test. It is important to arrive well-rested and prepared for each subject test, as each one is timed and requires a different set of skills and knowledge.
Timing Strategies for the GED Test
Taking the GED test is a significant step in obtaining your high school equivalency credential. One of the essential factors to consider is timing. The GED test is timed, meaning that you will have a specific amount of time to complete each section of the test. Here are some timing strategies to consider:
- Manage your time: It’s essential to have a plan for managing your time during the test. You can divide your time equally between questions or allocate more time to sections that you find challenging.
- Skip difficult questions: If you find a question too difficult, it’s okay to skip it and come back to it later. The GED test is not linear, meaning that you can answer questions in any order. You can mark the difficult questions and go back to them later if you have time.
- Don’t spend too much time on one question: The GED test is a timed test, and it’s crucial to keep track of your time. If you spend too much time on one question, you may not have enough time to complete the rest of the test. Answer the questions that you know the answer to first and come back to the difficult ones later.
- Practice under timed conditions: One of the best ways to prepare for the GED test is by taking practice tests under timed conditions. This will help you become familiar with the format and timing of the test, and you will be better prepared to manage your time during the actual test.
- Relax and stay calm: Taking the GED test can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm and relaxed. Take deep breaths, and don’t panic if you don’t know the answer to a question. Remember that you can always come back to it later if you have time.
By following these timing strategies, you can improve your chances of passing the GED test and obtaining your high school equivalency credential.
Retaking the GED Test
If you don’t pass one or more of the GED tests, you can retake them. However, you may have to wait a certain amount of time before you can retake the test. In some states, there may also be a limit to how many times you can retake the test in a certain period.
Before retaking the test, it’s a good idea to review your scores and identify the areas where you need to improve. You may want to consider taking additional classes or working with a tutor to help you prepare for the retake.
It’s important to note that you will have to pay a fee each time you retake the GED test. The fee may vary depending on the state and testing center, so be sure to check with the appropriate authorities to find out the exact cost.
Finally, remember that passing the GED test requires hard work and dedication. It’s important to stay motivated and focused on your goal of earning your high school equivalency credential. With the right preparation and mindset, you can succeed on the GED test and take the next step in your education or career.