What do I need to study for my GED?

The General Education Development (GED) exam is a comprehensive test designed to measure a person’s knowledge and skills in key subject areas commonly taught in high school. Passing the GED exam is equivalent to having a high school diploma and is widely accepted by employers, colleges, and universities as evidence of high school-level proficiency.

The GED exam is made up of four sections: Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts. Each section tests a range of skills and knowledge that a high school graduate should have mastered, and the exam is designed to be challenging enough to demonstrate that the test-taker has a level of knowledge equivalent to that of a high school graduate.

While the GED exam is an excellent alternative for individuals who did not complete high school or obtain a high school diploma, it is also a challenging test that requires careful preparation and study. This article will provide an overview of what you need to know to prepare for the GED exam, including the test format, the subjects that are included, and tips for successful preparation.

Understanding the Test Format and Content

The GED exam consists of four separate sections that are designed to measure a person’s knowledge and skills in key subject areas. Each section of the exam is timed and includes multiple-choice questions, as well as essay questions in some cases. The four sections of the GED exam are:

1. Mathematics: This section tests a person’s knowledge of basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The mathematics section of the GED exam is 115 minutes long.
2. Science: This section tests a person’s knowledge of life sciences, physical sciences, and earth and space sciences. The science section of the GED exam is 90 minutes long.
3. Social Studies: This section tests a person’s knowledge of U.S. history, government and civics, economics, and geography. The social studies section of the GED exam is 70 minutes long.
4. Language Arts: This section tests a person’s ability to read, write, and comprehend written texts, as well as to communicate effectively in writing. The language arts section of the GED exam is divided into two parts: Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), which is 150 minutes long, and the Language Arts Writing section, which is 45 minutes long.

It is important to note that the GED exam is computer-based, meaning that you will need basic computer skills to complete the exam successfully. The test is designed to be challenging and to measure the skills and knowledge that a high school graduate should possess. Therefore, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the content covered on the exam and to be familiar with the test format and requirements.

What Subjects are Included in the GED Exam?

The GED exam is designed to measure a person’s knowledge and skills in four key subject areas: Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts. Each subject area is designed to test a range of skills and knowledge that a high school graduate should have mastered.

The Mathematics section of the GED exam tests a person’s knowledge of basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Some specific topics covered in the mathematics section include number operations and number sense, measurement and geometry, data analysis, statistics, and probability, and algebra.

The Science section of the GED exam tests a person’s knowledge of life sciences, physical sciences, and earth and space sciences. Some specific topics covered in the science section include human biology, ecology, physics, chemistry, and earth and space science.

The Social Studies section of the GED exam tests a person’s knowledge of U.S. history, government and civics, economics, and geography. Some specific topics covered in the social studies section include the foundations of American democracy, the U.S. Constitution and government, geography and the world, economics, and U.S. history.

The Language Arts section of the GED exam tests a person’s ability to read, write, and comprehend written texts, as well as to communicate effectively in writing. Some specific topics covered in the language arts section include reading comprehension, analysis of written texts, grammar, usage, and mechanics, and writing effective essays.

It is important to note that the GED exam is designed to be challenging and to measure the skills and knowledge that a high school graduate should possess. Therefore, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the content covered on the exam and to be familiar with the test format and requirements.

Mathematics: Topics to Study for the GED

The Mathematics section of the GED exam tests a person’s knowledge of basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Some specific topics covered in the mathematics section include:

1. Number Operations and Number Sense: This topic includes whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percents, and ratios. It is important to understand the properties of numbers, how to perform basic operations, and how to solve problems using these concepts.
2. Measurement and Geometry: This topic includes concepts related to measuring objects and shapes, such as area, perimeter, circumference, volume, and surface area. It is important to understand how to apply basic formulas to solve problems related to these concepts.
3. Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability: This topic includes concepts related to collecting and interpreting data, such as mean, median, mode, range, and standard deviation. It is important to understand how to calculate these measures and how to interpret data sets. Additionally, the topic covers basic concepts of probability, including the probability of certain events occurring.
4. Algebra: This topic includes concepts related to solving equations and inequalities, graphing functions, and using algebraic concepts to solve problems. It is important to understand how to solve linear and quadratic equations and how to graph basic functions.

To prepare for the Mathematics section of the GED exam, it is essential to review these concepts thoroughly and to practice solving problems related to each of these topics. Additionally, becoming familiar with the test format and taking practice tests can help to identify areas where you may need to focus your studying. Many resources are available to help you prepare for the Mathematics section of the GED exam, including study guides, practice tests, and online resources.

Science: Topics to Study for the GED

The Science section of the GED exam tests a person’s knowledge of life sciences, physical sciences, and earth and space sciences. Some specific topics covered in the science section include:

1. Life Science: This topic includes concepts related to the study of living organisms, such as cells, genetics, and ecology. It is important to understand the basic structures and functions of cells and to understand the principles of genetics and evolution.
2. Physical Science: This topic includes concepts related to the study of matter and energy, such as chemistry and physics. It is important to understand basic concepts related to atoms, molecules, and chemical reactions, as well as concepts related to motion, energy, and force.
3. Earth and Space Science: This topic includes concepts related to the study of the earth and the universe, such as geology, astronomy, and meteorology. It is important to understand the basic principles of geology, such as plate tectonics and rock formation, as well as concepts related to the solar system, stars, and galaxies.

To prepare for the Science section of the GED exam, it is essential to review these concepts thoroughly and to practice applying them to real-world scenarios. Additionally, becoming familiar with the test format and taking practice tests can help to identify areas where you may need to focus your studying. Many resources are available to help you prepare for the Science section of the GED exam, including study guides, practice tests, and online resources.

Social Studies: Topics to Study for the GED

The Social Studies section of the GED exam tests a person’s knowledge of U.S. history, government and civics, economics, and geography. Some specific topics covered in the social studies section include:

1. U.S. History: This topic includes concepts related to the history of the United States, such as colonial history, the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. It is important to understand the major events and people that have shaped the history of the United States.
2. Government and Civics: This topic includes concepts related to the structure and function of the U.S. government, such as the three branches of government, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. It is important to understand the principles of democracy and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
3. Economics: This topic includes concepts related to the study of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, such as supply and demand, market systems, and the role of government in the economy. It is important to understand basic economic principles and how they relate to everyday life.
4. Geography: This topic includes concepts related to the study of the earth’s physical features and the ways in which humans interact with the environment, such as climate, natural resources, and land use. It is important to understand the basic principles of physical and cultural geography.

To prepare for the Social Studies section of the GED exam, it is essential to review these concepts thoroughly and to practice applying them to real-world scenarios. Additionally, becoming familiar with the test format and taking practice tests can help to identify areas where you may need to focus your studying. Many resources are available to help you prepare for the Social Studies section of the GED exam, including study guides, practice tests, and online resources.

Practice Tests and Additional Resources for GED Preparation

Preparing for the GED exam can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help you succeed. One of the most important resources for GED preparation is practice tests. Practice tests can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and they can help you become familiar with the format and content of the actual exam. Many GED preparation materials include practice tests, and there are also many free practice tests available online.

In addition to practice tests, there are many other resources available to help you prepare for the GED exam. These resources include study guides, textbooks, online courses, and tutoring services. Some popular GED preparation materials include:

1. Kaplan GED Test Prep Plus: This comprehensive GED test prep book includes practice tests, review material, and strategies for success on the exam.
2. GED Testing Service: The official GED Testing Service website offers a variety of free resources, including sample questions and a study guide.
3. Khan Academy: Khan Academy offers free online courses in math, science, and social studies that can help you prepare for the GED exam.
4. Adult Education Programs: Many communities offer adult education programs that include GED preparation courses and tutoring services.
5. Libraries: Public libraries often have GED preparation materials available for check out, including study guides and practice tests.

No matter what resources you choose, it is important to start preparing for the GED exam as early as possible. This will give you plenty of time to review the material, identify areas where you may need additional help, and practice taking the test. With dedication and hard work, you can successfully earn your GED and take the first step toward achieving your educational and career goals.