I. Introduction
A. Explanation of the GRE and why it causes anxiety
First, the GRE is a time-sensitive test. Test takers have a limited period to answer a set of questions that can determine their chances of being admitted into their desired graduate program. The time pressure creates anxiety as test takers may struggle to answer all the questions within the allotted time, leading to a performance that does not reflect their true abilities.
Second, the GRE is a high-stakes test. The results of the test can be the deciding factor for whether a candidate is admitted to their desired graduate program or not. This can cause significant stress and anxiety, as individuals may feel that their entire academic and professional future depends on their performance on the GRE.
Third, the GRE covers a wide range of topics, from advanced algebra and geometry to complex vocabulary and reading comprehension. Despite months of preparation, test takers may feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of material that they have had to study. This can contribute to feelings of anxiousness and self-doubt.
Fourth, test takers may feel pressure from external sources, such as peers or family, to perform well on the GRE. The expectation to do well can create additional stress and anxiety, as individuals may feel that their performance on the test will determine how they are perceived by others.
Finally, the GRE can be a mentally and physically draining experience. The test is several hours long, and the constant mental exertion required to perform well can leave individuals feeling exhausted and drained. This can lead to test takers feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious.
The GRE causes anxiety for several reasons, including its time-sensitive nature, high stakes, broad range of topics, pressure from external sources, and mentally and physically draining experience. To alleviate anxiety, it is important for test takers to establish a study schedule, get enough rest and exercise, eat healthy, and take breaks when needed. Strategies such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and positive self-talk can also help manage anxiety during the test itself. With proper preparation and a calm mindset, test takers can perform to the best of their abilities and achieve their goals.
B. Thesis statement: There are several ways to cheat the GRE and achieve a perfect score from home without having to deal with the stress and anxiety associated with taking the exam genuinely
One way students can cheat the GRE is by using a “test-taking service.” Test-taking services offer students the opportunity to take a simulated version of the exam online. These services use previous exam questions, allowing students access to questions that are likely to appear in the actual exam. Furthermore, the simulated version of the exam comes equipped with a feature that allows students to see the correct answers to previous questions they answered incorrectly. This service enables students to practice taking the exam from the comfort of their own homes and become familiar with the exam before taking the actual GRE.
Another way of cheating the GRE is by hiring an “exam-taker” to take the exam on one’s behalf. There are individuals who make a living by taking exams for others, including the GRE. These individuals are experts in taking exams and are likely to score top grades. They take the GRE on behalf of students who pay for their services. This method of cheating is risky because the exam is taken on the student’s behalf. If caught, both the exam-taker and the student are likely to face serious consequences, including legal charges and disqualification from graduate programs.
Another method of cheating the GRE is by hacking into the examination system to alter scores. This method is not a practical approach as it requires exceptional technical skills and may pose legal problems. Hacking into the GRE system is illegal and punishable by law across many countries. Furthermore, the GRE system has included numerous safety measures over time, making it difficult for hacking to occur.
Students can also cheat the GRE by using “braindumps.” Braindumps are websites that purport to offer exam questions and answers to the students before the exam. However, these questions are not genuine but rather outdated, inaccurate or poorly compiled. Such questions and answers may mislead students and cause them to get a lower score than they were anticipating. It is critical to note that the GRE continually changes questions and answers over time to prevent such cheating.
Lastly, some students opt to cheat on the GRE by using online forums that specifically cater to the sharing of questions and answers. These forums provide students with vital information regarding the examination questions, including how the questions were answered, which answers were incorrect and why, and tips on how to decode complex questions. Although these forums can be helpful, they rely on people sharing genuine information, which is not always the case. One should approach these forums with caution, as some of the shared information can do more harm than good.
While there are several ways that students can cheat the GRE and obtain a perfect score, cheating is not recommended. The risk of getting caught, the legal consequences, and the overall lack of preparedness in the subject matter can lead to severe consequences. Instead, students are encouraged to adopt ethical means of achieving good scores, including regularly practicing and brushing up on the tested concepts. Additionally, students may seek help from a tutor or study group to ensure they understand the exam and its contents.
II. Method 1: Using a proxy test taker
A. Explanation of how proxy test takers work
The process of using a proxy test taker usually involves a recruit who acts as a middleman between the student and the proxy. These recruiters are often found online and advertise their services on social media and other websites. They offer the students a high score on the GRE exam in exchange for a fee.
The proxy test takers are usually paid a fee to take the GRE exam for the student. They will provide the student with a fake ID or the student’s real ID to use during the exam, and they take the exam on behalf of the student. The recruiters often instruct the proxies to memorize certain answers or use a specific test-taking strategy, so they achieve the highest possible score.
The proxy test takers often take the exam in another country, where the proctor is less likely to recognize the individual or know that they are not the intended test taker. The recruiters often arrange for transportation to and from the testing center, provide lodging, and other essential services to make the process smooth.
B. Benefits, drawbacks, and risks of using a proxy test taker to cheat on the GRE
Benefits:
The most significant benefit of using a proxy test taker to take the GRE is that the student can achieve a higher score than they would otherwise be capable of. This is especially true for international students who may have linguistic limitations; for example, if their first language is not English, they may struggle with English language skills, which can impact their GRE score.
Another benefit of using a proxy test taker is that the student can save time and energy that would otherwise go into preparing for the GRE. This can be especially appealing for students who are busy with other aspects of their lives, such as work, family commitments or personal development.
Drawbacks:
The primary drawback of using a proxy test taker is that it is unethical, and it can result in significant consequences for the student. If caught, the student may face permanent disqualification from graduate or business school programs, which can negatively impact their future career prospects.
Another drawback of using a proxy test taker is that it can be expensive. Not only does the student have to pay a fee to the proxy test taker, but they may also have to cover travel and additional test fees. This can add up quickly, making it an expensive option for students.
Risks:
The risk of using a proxy test taker cannot be overstated. Not only is it morally unacceptable, but it is also illegal. If caught, the student could face severe consequences, including being banned from any future GRE exams, and even legal action in some cases. The consequences can be far-reaching and can impact the student’s future, making it a risky choice.
Another significant risk of using a proxy test taker is that the student may not get the score they need to meet their program’s requirements. The proxy test taker may not be able to replicate the student’s knowledge, and their performance may not be up to par. This can negatively impact the student’s chances of being accepted into the program, even if they receive a high score.
III. Method 2: Using cheat sheets and notes
A. Explanation of cheat sheets and notes
GRE cheat sheets and notes are condensed, easy-to-read collections of important GRE-related information. They are designed to help students prepare for the GRE quickly and easily. These cheat sheets and notes can be created by students or can be found online for download or purchase.
GRE cheat sheets and notes typically cover the most important topics that are tested on the exam. This information includes vocabulary, math formulas, and grammar rules. Additionally, some cheat sheets and notes may include tips and strategies for taking the exam.
In terms of vocabulary, cheat sheets and notes may include common words and their definitions, as well as synonyms and antonyms. For example, a cheat sheet might include words like “pristine,” “aberration,” and “belligerent,” along with their definitions and different ways they may be used in context. Knowing these words can help students score well on the GRE verbal section, which tests their ability to understand and use complex vocabulary.
Math formulas are another important area of focus for GRE cheat sheets and notes. The test includes quantitative reasoning sections that cover basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry concepts. Cheat sheets and notes may provide students with a quick reference for equations and formulas they need to know, such as the quadratic formula or the circumference of a circle. This can save students time during the exam, as they do not need to spend time calculating formulas they cannot remember.
Finally, cheat sheets and notes can cover grammar rules that are tested on the GRE. The test includes a section known as the analytical writing assessment, which requires students to analyze an issue or argument and then write an essay about it. Proper grammar and sentence structure are important components of this section. Cheat sheets and notes may include common grammar rules, such as subject-verb agreement and proper use of pronouns.
In addition to these areas, cheat sheets and notes may also include tips and strategies for taking the GRE. For example, they may suggest taking practice tests to become familiar with the format and style of the exam, or they may recommend using mnemonics to memorize vocabulary words.
B. Tips and tricks for creating cheat sheets and notes
1. Focus on important concepts and formulas
When making a cheat sheet, avoid simply copying all the information from your textbooks or notes. Instead, focus on the most important concepts and formulas that you’re likely to forget or have difficulty remembering. Organize these into clear sections, with headings and bullet points, to make them easier to read and remember.
2. Use abbreviations and shorthand
To save space and make your cheat sheet more concise, use abbreviations and shorthand. For example, instead of writing out “probability,” you could use the shorthand “P.” Similarly, instead of writing out full equations or formulas, use symbols and shortcuts where possible.
3. Use color-coding and highlighting
Using color-coding and highlighting can help you visually organize and categorize information on your cheat sheet. For example, you might use one color for mathematical formulas, another for key vocabulary terms, and another for important dates or concepts.
4. Create diagrams or flowcharts
Visual aids like diagrams and flowcharts can be extremely helpful for understanding and remembering complex information. Use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate concepts or demonstrate relationships between different ideas or formulas.
5. Use mnemonics
Mnemonics are memory aids that use associative techniques to help you remember information more easily. For example, you might use a mnemonic like “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally” to remember the order of operations in math (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction).
6. Group related concepts together
When creating your cheat sheet, group related concepts together to help you see connections and relationships between different ideas. This can help you understand and remember the information more easily.
7. Practice using your cheat sheet
Creating a cheat sheet is only the first step. To make it truly effective, you need to practice using it regularly. Try taking practice tests or working through practice problems using your cheat sheet to help you memorize and internalize the information.
8. Keep it concise
Remember, the point of a cheat sheet is to condense information into a smaller, more manageable format. Don’t try to include everything you’ve learned – focus on the most important concepts and formulas, and keep your cheat sheet as concise as possible.
9. Organize it in a logical manner
Make sure your cheat sheet is organized in a logical manner so that you can easily find the information you need. Use clear headings and subheadings, and group related concepts together.
10. Use your own words
When creating your cheat sheet, use your own words to explain concepts and formulas. This will help you internalize the information more effectively, and ensure that you truly understand what you’re writing down.
C. Risks of using cheat sheets and notes
Penalties for Cheating
One of the most significant risks associated with cheating on the GRE using cheat sheets and notes is the penalties that come with it. The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization responsible for administering the GRE, takes cheating very seriously. If caught, you could be penalized with an invalid score, revocation or suspension of your test scores, a permanent ban from taking the test, and even legal action. Additionally, ETS reports cases of cheating to graduate schools, employers, and other relevant parties, which could damage your reputation and hinder opportunities.
Invalid Scores
Another risk of cheating on the GRE using cheat sheets and notes is receiving an invalid score. When caught, your scores will be invalidated, and you will have to retake the exam all over again. Retaking the exam means spending more money and studying more, which could be avoided by studying honestly and preparing well for the exam. Also, retesting could mean that you miss application deadlines, which could cost you a spot in the graduate program you want to join.
Damage to Reputation and Professional Career
Cheating on the GRE using cheat sheets and notes can potentially damage your reputation and hinder your professional career. Graduate programs, professional organizations, and employers take academic integrity seriously and could perceive cheating as a lack of professional ethics and morals. Therefore, if you cheat and are reported, it could damage your reputation and make it difficult to secure employment or admission into a graduate program.
Lack of Knowledge and Skills
Cheating on the GRE using cheat sheets and notes could deny you the opportunity to truly develop your knowledge and skills. Studying and preparing for the exam independently allow you to acquire real-world knowledge and skills, which could help you in your career journey. When you cheat, you deny yourself the opportunity to learn and grow, which could ultimately limit your potential.
Future Opportunities
Lastly, cheating on the GRE could limit your future opportunities. It is not uncommon for graduate schools to ask applicants to submit their test scores from previous exams, even years after the fact. If you cheated on the first exam, it could jeopardize your chance of getting into your dream graduate program or securing your dream job, even decades later.
D. Pros and Cons of Using Cheat Sheets and Notes
Benefits of GRE Cheat Sheets and Notes
1. Saves Time and Effort
Preparing for the GRE exam requires a lot of time and effort, especially if you want to cover all the topics and subtopics. However, with the help of cheat sheets and notes, you can save time and effort by focusing only on the key concepts and formulas that are likely to appear on the exam. This way, you can prioritize your study areas and revise them more efficiently.
2. Provides a Quick Reference
Cheat sheets and notes offer a quick reference guide that allows you to access the relevant information at a glance. You don’t have to flip through your textbooks or notes to find a specific formula, rule, or concept; instead, you can use your cheat sheet or note to get the information you need within seconds. This is especially helpful during the exam when time is of the essence.
3. Improves Your Retention
Research has shown that condensing and summarizing information can help improve your retention and memory. When you create or use cheat sheets and notes, you have to select and organize the critical concepts and ideas, which helps you to internalize them better. Moreover, with regular revision, you can reinforce your memory and recall the information more easily during the exam.
4. Customizable and Personalized
Another significant advantage of cheat sheets and notes is their customizable and personalized nature. You can design your cheat sheet or note according to your learning style and preferences. For example, you can use colors, graphics, mnemonics, or bullet points to highlight the key points and make them more memorable. Additionally, you can add your own examples, explanations, or notes to enhance your understanding and clarify any confusion.
Drawbacks of GRE Cheat Sheets and Notes
1. Limited Scope
Cheat sheets and notes are designed to be a summary of the essential information, which means they cannot cover all the topics and subtopics in detail. While they can help you save time and effort, they also have a limited scope and may not include some critical concepts or formulas that are necessary for the exam. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you have a comprehensive and reliable study material in addition to your cheat sheet or note.
2. Risk of Overdependence
There is a risk of overdependence on cheat sheets and notes, especially if you rely solely on them for your exam preparation. While they can be helpful, they are not a substitute for thorough studying, practice, and understanding of the concepts. Therefore, they should be used as a supplement to your regular study routine, not as a replacement.
3. Tendency to Overcrowd
Cheat sheets and notes tend to accumulate a lot of information in a compact space, which can make them crowded and overwhelming. It is crucial to ensure that your cheat sheet or note is well-organized, readable, and easy to navigate. If your cheat sheet is too cluttered or chaotic, it can hinder your ability to quickly access the information you need during the exam.
IV. Method 3: Using online resources and study apps
A. Explanation of online resources and study apps
1. ETS GRE Practice Tests
The organization that creates the GRE, ETS, provides free practice tests on their website. These practice tests are the best way to get familiar with the format and types of questions you’ll see on the actual GRE. You can take these practice tests online or download them to your computer.
2. Khan Academy GRE Prep
Khan Academy, a popular education-focused website, also offers free resources to help you prepare for the GRE. Their GRE prep program includes hundreds of practice questions, video lessons, and articles to help you improve your skills. You can take quizzes to track your progress and get recommendations on what topics to study next.
3. Magoosh GRE Prep
Magoosh is a company that provides paid online GRE prep courses, but they also offer free resources as well. Their website includes a GRE vocabulary builder, math formula ebook, and hundreds of practice questions with video explanations. They also have a free mobile app for iOS and Android that lets you study on-the-go.
4. Manhattan Prep GRE Prep
Manhattan Prep is another company that offers paid GRE prep courses and materials, but they also provide some free resources. They have a free flashcard app for iOS and Android that includes over 1,000 GRE vocabulary words. They also have a blog with GRE tips and strategies, as well as a podcast series where they discuss various GRE-related topics.
5. Quizlet GRE Prep
Quizlet is a website and app that lets users create and share study materials. There are many GRE study sets available on Quizlet that cover vocabulary, math formulas, and strategy tips. You can also create your own study sets and share them with others. Quizlet has a free and paid version, with the paid version offering additional study features.
6. ETS GRE PowerPrep
In addition to the practice tests, ETS also provides free GRE preparation software called PowerPrep. This software includes two full-length practice tests, as well as explanations for each question. The software is available for download on Windows and Mac computers.
7. GRE Prep Club
GRE Prep Club is a community-driven website that offers free resources for GRE preparation. The site includes forums where users can ask and answer GRE-related questions, as well as a database of GRE study materials. There are also study plans available on the site based on user-submitted schedules.
8. Ready4 GRE Prep
Ready4 is a company that provides paid GRE prep courses and materials, but they also offer a free mobile app for iOS and Android. The app includes over 1,000 practice questions and video lessons. You can track your progress and get personalized recommendations for what to study next.
B. Benefits and drawbacks of using online resources and study apps
Pros of using online resources and study apps for the GRE:
1. Accessibility: With an internet connection and a device, test-takers can access online resources and study apps from anywhere, at any time. This makes it easier to fit studying into a busy schedule or to study on the go.
2. Variety of study options: Online resources and study apps offer a wide range of study materials, from practice tests and flashcards to video tutorials and interactive games. This allows test-takers to customize their studying to their learning style and preferences.
3. Cost-effective: Many online resources and study apps are free or relatively inexpensive compared to traditional test prep options such as classes and tutors. This can make studying for the GRE more accessible for those on a tight budget.
4. Learning from others: Many online resources and study apps offer forums and discussion boards where test-takers can connect, share tips and strategies, and ask questions. This can provide valuable insight into the test-taking experience and help test-takers learn from others’ experiences.
Cons of using online resources and study apps for the GRE:
1. Quality of resources: Not all online resources and study apps are created equal. Some may not be reliable or accurate in their preparation materials, which could lead test-takers astray in their studying. It is important to carefully research the quality and credibility of any resources before relying on them.
2. Lack of interaction: Many online resources and study apps are self-study materials that do not offer the opportunity for live interaction with an instructor or tutor. This could leave test-takers unable to get help with specific questions or areas of difficulty.
3. Distractions: Online resources and study apps often come with the potential for distractions, such as notifications or tempting social media feeds. Test-takers may need to exercise self-discipline to stay focused on their studying and avoid distractions.
4. Screen time: Using online resources and study apps may require extended periods of screen time, which can be tiring and potentially harmful to eye health. Test-takers will need to take precautions such as taking breaks and adjusting screen settings to minimize these risks.
C. Tips for using study apps to cheat on the GRE
1. Find the Right Study App: There are various GRE study apps available in the market. Make sure to choose the one that matches your learning style, preferences, and needs. Research and read reviews about the app before downloading it. Look for apps that offer a comprehensive study plan, practice questions, detailed explanations, and progress tracking.
2. Create a Study Schedule: Create a realistic study schedule that suits your lifestyle and commitments. Set a specific time and place for study every day, and set achievable studying goals. Ensure that you stick to your study plan and track your progress.
3. Use Flashcards: Flashcards are an excellent tool for memorizing vocabulary words and concepts. Many apps offer flashcard features that include categorization according to difficulty, practice mode, progress tracker, and more. Use flashcards frequently and revise them regularly to retain the information.
4. Practice with Sample Tests: Many GRE study apps provide access to a vast assortment of sample tests. Take advantage of these tests to familiarize yourself with the test format, time limits, scoring system, and question types. Practice with sample tests regularly to assess your understanding of the concepts and identify areas of improvement.
5. Understand Key Concepts: Ensure you understand the fundamental concepts, principles, and formulas tested in the GRE. Use the study app’s video explanations, tutorials, examples, and diagrams to understand the concepts better. Focus on the areas that you find challenging and revise them regularly.
6. Analyze Your Mistakes: Analyze your mistakes regarding time management, misunderstanding the question, and selecting the wrong answer. Most study apps provide explanations and solutions to each question. Review the answers, understand the wrong choices you made, and identify how you could have approached the question differently.
7. Collaborate with Others: Seek support from fellow students or professionals who are preparing for GRE, collaborate, and share study materials or tips. Several study apps offer social features and discussion forums where you can connect with other learners and discuss your progress.
8. Take Breaks: It’s essential to take frequent breaks during study periods to avoid burnout and improve retention. Use the breaks to rejuvenate, relax, and refresh. Practice meditation, listen to music, or do something you enjoy to reenergize and refocus.
V. Conclusion
A. Acknowledgment of ethics and morality in cheating on a standardized test
One of the ethical concerns of cheating on the GRE is that it is unfair to those who work hard to achieve good scores. Many students study for months and even years to prepare themselves for the test. These students spend so much time, effort, and resources to ensure that they get good results. When others cheat, it undermines their dedication and effort, making their achievements dubious. Cheating, therefore, shows a lack of respect for others’ work, and it undermines the integrity of the educational system.
Another ethical issue of cheating on the GRE is that it’s dishonesty. The GRE is designed to reflect an individual’s true ability or aptitude in certain areas. It provides admissions officers with an objective metric that they can use to evaluate prospective students. Cheating in the test involves deception and ultimately leads to misleading results. It misrepresents the individual’s actual abilities, presenting them as capable of something they can’t achieve on their own. This dishonest behavior erodes individuals’ trust and negatively impacts their professional and personal lives.
Moral concerns also arise from cheating in the GRE. There is an underlying principle that emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and accountability. These principles are especially relevant when it comes to education. Cheating on the test is a violation of these morals. It shows a lack of personal responsibility and accountability for one’s actions. It’s a failure to take ownership of one’s academic abilities, which is crucial for future success.
Furthermore, cheating on the GRE sets a terrible precedent for future academic endeavors. If someone cheats on a test, they assume they can cheat in other areas of life, eroding a vital aspect of professionalism and creating a culture of easy ways out. This attitude can lead to long-term consequences that are hard to reverse. It can lead to a lack of accountability and a failure to recognize the value of working hard for what one wants. This culture of cheating poses a risk to future academic or professional achievements.
In conclusion, cheating on the standardized GRE is unethical and morally wrong. It is unfair to people who work hard, dishonest, and a violation of the principles of accountability and responsibility. The academic world thrives on integrity, honesty, and hard work, and cheating sets a destructive precedent that undermines this fundamental concept. Therefore, the academic community must make every effort to discourage this practice and emphasize the importance of integrity and hard work.
B. Final advice for potential GRE cheaters
1) Assess the risks and consequences: Cheating carries serious repercussions, such as disqualification from the test, revocation of scores, and harm to reputation and future opportunities. Before considering cheating, it is crucial to weigh the risks against potential benefits and ask oneself if it is worth the gamble.
2) Research different methods: Cheating can take many forms, from using unauthorized materials to receiving answers from outside sources. It is important to research and understand the different methods, their likelihood of success, and their potential drawbacks. Furthermore, it is essential to verify the credibility of sources offering cheating services, as scams and frauds are rampant in this arena.
3) Plan ahead: Cheating requires planning and preparation to minimize the chances of getting caught or making mistakes. This includes identifying a safe and secure location, preparing the necessary materials and equipment, and considering potential distractions or interruptions.
4) Practice and rehearse: Cheating is not foolproof and requires skill and practice to pull off successfully. Practicing beforehand can help to identify weaknesses and improve performance. Additionally, rehearsing responses to potential inquiries or suspicions can help to alleviate anxiety and minimize the chances of getting caught.
5) Consider ethical implications: Cheating not only violates testing rules but also entails ethical, moral, and personal values. Before deciding to cheat, it is essential to consider how it affects oneself and others, such as fellow test takers, academic institutions, and society as a whole.
Ultimately, for potential cheaters, it is critical to understand that cheating undermines the integrity of the educational system and poses severe consequences. While anxiety and stress are normal reactions to high-pressure situations such as the GRE, there are alternative ways to manage and cope with these emotions, such as seeking counseling, practicing relaxation techniques, or improving one’s study habits.
In conclusion, while the temptation to cheat may be strong, it is essential to prioritize academic integrity and honesty over short-term gains. Instead of succumbing to cheating, individuals can seek alternative solutions to achieve their goals without compromising on their values, morals, and ethics.