A GED certificate opens the door to many academic and financial opportunities. It is accepted by most colleges, technical schools and employers as being equivalent to a high school diploma.
The GED exam consists of four subject tests: language arts, math, science and social studies. It typically takes 7.5 hours to take the test and is done through a computer.
Studying for the Test
The GED is a high school alternative test designed for people who did not finish high school. Those who pass the test can get their GED certificate, pursue further education, or get a job. The process of obtaining your GED is simple and easy.
To ensure you are prepared for the GED test, start studying a few months ahead, read a few GED preparation books or online resources, and take practice tests. It can be hard to motivate yourself to get into the routine of studying and education again, especially if you find yourself looking at things you’ve not looked at since you were in school, but there are things you can do to help you focus. It’s important to have a space to study that’s free of what you know distracts you, have a solid study plan in place, and celebrate the small wins. You could even get a fake diploma printed off to put up on the wall or on your desk to motivate you to continue to work towards getting the real thing.
These practice tests will help you familiarize yourself with the testing format. They will also show you which areas of study need improvement. The questions on the GED are multiple-choice but include drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, select-an-area, and answer-matching questions.
When it comes to testing day, be sure you arrive well-rested and alert. Falling asleep during the test will be embarrassing and could cost you your GED score. Moreover, arrive early so you can get a good seat in the room.
Taking Practice Tests
The GED test is divided into four subjects: math, language arts, social studies, and science. Practice tests are a great way to familiarize yourself and prepare for the test. These practice tests can be accessed online from any computer with an internet connection.
The science section of the test is divided into three topics: astronomy, Earth science, physics and biology. This part of the test is based on concepts taught in high schools across the United States. It measures a person’s understanding and analysis of information.
The language arts part of the test is based on reading and writing skills. This test portion measures a person’s comprehension and understanding of passages written in prose, nonfiction, or American historical documents.
This portion of the test is also a good indicator of a person’s ability to write. Most people who pass the language arts portion of the test can read and understand newspaper or magazine articles and complete a five-paragraph essay.
Taking the Test
The GED is a four-subject test designed for adults who never received a high school diploma. Passing the test can allow people to move forward with their lives, gaining better employment and college admissions. It can also save time and money on retraining programs and other costs.
Applicants register and pay online but must show a valid state-issued ID or passport on their test day to complete the process. They are also given wipe-off boards during the test to avoid needing extra paper. Scores are commonly available to test takers within 24 hours after the test ends.
The actual test is divided into four subjects, each with its sections. For example, the language arts portion has two subsections that measure a test taker’s ability to understand and analyze text. This is done by reading passages that cover various topics, including prose literature and American historical documents. The math portion covers both algebra and problem-solving on a quantitative basis.
Obtaining Your GED
Obtaining your GED certificate is an important milestone for anyone who didn’t graduate from high school. It’s a sign of maturity and can help you learn new skills, find a job, or pursue more education.
You’ll need to prepare, take the exam, and have it evaluated to obtain your GED. Preparation starts with choosing a study method that best suits you. GED test-takers can choose from online, in-person or paper-based preparation courses.
The GED tests knowledge in four subjects: language arts (reading and writing), math, social studies and history, and science. The GED is recognized by most colleges, technical schools and employers as equivalent to a high school diploma.
Most states offer the GED, while others have their tests, such as Indiana’s HiSET exam. Each state has different age requirements, residency rules, photo ID mandates and prep course requirements. After completing all the necessary steps, you will receive a digital or physical copy of your GED diploma.