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Kaplan GRE Exam 2008 Premier Programx$29.00
  (35 reviews)
Best Price: $36.00 $29.00
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Customer Reviews
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New types of questions coming-- -- alert!
By A2REQUI85URT87 on 2007-08-15
The computer administered GRE exam will be changing with the November 2007 administration, and the practice exams in the new 2008 edition of this book do not appear to include the new question types. That's defensible in one sense because for at least the first administration in November, the new questions will not count in the final score. However, the new questions may start to count with the next or subsequent administrations, provided GRE can "validate" the scoring for the new format questions. Thus, if you are thinking of taking the test after November, this book is not quite enough. You'll also need to go to the GRE website and examine the format of the new questions if you want to be fully prepared and avoid any unpleasant "surprises." (I'm also hoping that Kaplan will offer the new question types online at its website at the appropriate time.)
In case you were wondering, the new Verbal question type is a text completion question that requires the test taker to fill in two or three blanks within a passage from separate multiple-choice lists. Currently, the Verbal section contains text completion questions that require test takers to fill in one blank within a passage from a single multiple-choice list. The new Quantitative question type will be a numeric entry question that requires test takers to type their answer as a number in a box, or as a fraction in two boxes. Test takers can review sample questions and additional information about the new question types on the GRE website.
That said, this book is still quite useful, as the paramount element of this book is the wide-ranging vocabulary review. Kaplan has included a long list of vocabulary words that they feel crop up frequently on GRE exams. I unquestionably feel that reviewing the vocabulary part of the book that helped me come back with a few questions that I would not have known.
I also recommend going to the GRE's website and downloading the free PowerPrep software in addition to buying this book. It includes two full GRE tests and a few hundred practice problems, including the new type in verbal and in quantitative. Additionally, for the essay part of the examination, they include a few sample prompts and responses, so you can see the writing they grade highly.
Princeton Review much better
By A2HNQMBOIEGHIH on 2007-11-19
If you're considering buying this book for GRE prep, don't. Your money would be better spent on one of the Princeton Review books (or barron's, arco, whatever).
I originally bought the Kaplan GRE verbal workbook and, seeking additional practice, spent $40+ on the 2008 Premier program. About 40 of the 50 verbal questions in the new book were recycled. Why publish 2 books if one contains the same content as the other?
Worse yet, the text is riddled with typos, the math section contains mislabeled figures, and the explanations occasionally explain an answer different from that provided.
As for the CD, the math + verbal drills are not adaptive and thus don't offer a realistic testing experience. Princeton Review's CD contains adaptive drills as well as full length tests. I'd go with that.
Great information, but no Mac compatibility
By A6975NKAWMCOY on 2007-10-23
This was a very useful resource for me in preparing for the GRE. The tips and tricks, as well as the explanation of the test itself, came in very handy, and the practice questions were very useful. In addition, the "Common words" and "Kaplan's Math Hints" sections really helped me review the archaic or obscure sorts of things tested in the GRE. The website based test was pretty decent too, and gave me a better idea what to expect from the test per-se.
However, there's one major caveat: The software included is not remotely Mac compatible. Although the website works fine, the CD is basically a coaster for OS X users. You've still got the in-book practice tests and the one online one, but if you're really looking for practice tests, know that you might not have all of them that you're expecting.
So, if you're a PC user, I'd recommend picking up a copy. Mac users need to weigh the pro's and con's here. Regardless, as the guide says, the GRE is a game, and this book very nicely prepared me to jump through their hoops.
Disk is windows-only
By A28M7XAA68L1MC on 2007-10-31
I have no idea how well this product is going to work, because I'm sending it back. The included disk with the practice tests is Windows-only, a fact that is not noted anywhere in the reviews, the product description or the packaging - I only found out when I opened the disk, no doubt voiding the warranty I'm sure. Not useful in the least.
a warning concerning the CD-Rom
By A3E68KSKF7I5J5 on 2008-01-27
I am currently studying to take the GRE general exam and purchased this book used. I decided to purchase Kaplan products because it had the best reviews and many people felt the CD gave a very realistic impression of what the test is actually like. When I read the inside cover of the book, it explained that the CD access to Kaplan's "online companion" is limited to the original owner of the text. Since the used book I received had the CD still in it's original packaging, I thought I would still be ok. No such luck. Once I typed in the serial number, I received an error message telling me that this serial number had already been used. It is also important to note that access to the online companion expires six months after you register. The first few pages of the book explain that by registering the CD online you will have access to all of the GRE Premier Program components that are not in the book or on the CD; the diagnostic quiz, essay writing practice, mobile prep, online quizzes and links to Kaplan's best GRE information. If I would have realized this prior to my purchase, I would have spent the extra money on a new book. So, my words of wisdom: Don't buy this book used if you actually plan to use all of the benefits of the CD-Rom.
- Book has false alarms - but the software's good
By A388658Q4CQ0PC on 2007-09-25
The book spends far too much time warning about new question types that DON'T EXIST YET. It actually scared me until I checked the GRE Web site and confirmed the GRE is still the same old Computer Adaptive Test, with possibly one or two additional, experimental questions (starting November 2007) that are not counted in your score. I took the GRE in September 2007 and NONE of the new question types were used. Use a different book and save yourself from worrying, unless you're taking the GRE in 2008-2009 and have faith in this book's prognostication. By then they'll have an updated edition regardless...
The CD-ROM was worthwhile though. It has five separate tests for each of the Verbal and Quantitative sections - more than the other books/CDs I used. It helps with drilling, to go directly to the part where you need extra practice. The software was easy to use and accurately simulated the actual GRE.
- Paragon Preparation
By A2L3EYM69TCHNP on 2007-11-07
Kaplan has to be one of the best test preparation products out there. If you are considering graduate school, I advise you to buy this product along with the following products: verbal workbook, math workbook, and vocabulary flash cards. Skim through the workbooks and establish a system to build your vocabulary with the flashcards. About three months out of your test session, use the Premier book. Also, I would practice with the accompanying instructional disk which is packed with valuable practice sets. About two-three weeks out of your testing session, I would focus on test strategy, focusing again on the tips in this product and finding what works when taking practice tests. Kaplan worked for me and it can work for you. If you have the opportunity, take a Kaplan practice test. They are often held at local colleges and universities. With the aforementioned Kaplan products and ETS Powerprep material (sent to you when registering for the GRE), you will have more than enough practice material. Having taken the GRE, I can attest to my step-by-step approach. Confidence and a winning attitude necessary to score well on the GRE result from a systematic approach. You will soon see the glass as being half full.
- Kaplan GRE Prep
By AWPE4LYZK528W on 2007-08-09
This book was a life saver. It gives the test taker an edge by explaining how the GRE test is unique compared to other computer adapted tests. The format is excellent and covers each subject-area in detail without making it dull.
This guide was recommended to me by several people who had benefitted from using it, and they ranked it number 1 over any other prep guide. I second their enthusiasm. It was well worth the read, and the price I paid through Amazon was very comparable to my local bookstore.
As important as the GRE is to prospective graduate students, and at $140 to sit for the exam, you can't afford not to use the Kaplan GRE prep guide.
S. McDyer
- Excellent
By A1CUEO9WILHAV3 on 2007-12-08
I bought this book after trying Princeton Review's GRE book. I went to a free Kaplan event and really liked how they presented their material, so I decided to get the book. The book does a good job of showing different techniques to solves mathematical problems as well as offer a wide range of techniques to help with the verbal and analytical writing sections. The practice sets on the CD were clutch. They set it up so that the practice sessions have more problems with less time so that you get better with timing and identifying problems quickly. If you're shooting to get an 800, I'd recommend some supplementary materials, because the book does not get too into probability, combinations, permutations and other advanced topics. I'd say it's a great buy because you get 6 practice sets and 3 full length practice tests on the CD. I'd pay the same price for just the CD. Cheers!
- Great Test Review
By A27A83F6FXWX6V on 2007-11-27
This is a great review book, but should not be used in isolation. It would also be worth your while to supplement it with a Princeton Review book, as many of the tips differ, and it's good to find which ones suit your style. The CD is invaluable practice, and I found that the scores I received on the practice tests were slightly lower, but within reason of what I actually received on the test. Most importantly, the timed practice tests teach you how to pace yourself.
- Great Practices, Decent Study Guide.
By AR2YQQCOD6304 on 2008-03-26
I recently took the GRE after about a month of study. I have a B.S. in Zoology, so I was not looking forward to the Math and English heavy GRE. I studied approximately 20 hours total, and scored a 780 on the Quant and a 700 on the Verbal (I'm still waiting on my percentile scores and essays). The most beneficial sections for me were the vocabulary sections and the essay writing tips. I spent about 15 hours actually studying from the book.
The real gold in this package is the practice tests and practice sections. Both the book and the CD have several different opportunities to see sample questions. There are full timed tests available on the CD, and taking them definitely helped me hammer out the timing issue.
Additionally, it comes with online support that includes study sessions, study time-lines, and a diagnostic test to help you figure out where the majority of your study time should be devoted.
For the price (a bit over $20 brand new), this study guide is a find. Granted, it does require a self-motivated learner willing to put in uninterrupted practice time. However, the results were definitely worth it for me.
- The CD's software isn't compatible with Windows Vista
By A197T2N6RU7K56 on 2008-04-27
I bought this book here at amazon earlier this month. Today I installed the software from the CD-ROM that comes with the book. That's how I have learned that it is not compatible with Windows Vista.
My inquiry to Kaplan's online tech support resulted in a prompt and courteous email which said, "Unfortunately the CD is not compatible with the Windows Vista Operating system. You will need to install the CD on a Windows XP or Windows 2000. We do apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced."
I hope that the book sans software turns out to be helpful and worth the purchase price. I also hope that amazon will update its product information to include the important disclosures that the CD-ROM will be nothing more than an expensive coaster for customers using Macs or Vista-equipped PCs.
- Great investment!
By A1L0ZQM1XLU9ZG on 2008-05-01
I'm so glad I ordered this book! I always read reviews exhaustively before I ever purchase books, so I picked this one out. My review is just of the beginning of the book (I just started it), but I feel like it's so good I can't wait to tell people that they should get it! I graduated with a 3.something Bachelor's degree and have been out of school, and pretty much out of a real job, for a couple years now. Finally I figured out that I want to get a Masters, but I've been out of it for so long- I needed help! So I just started this book the other day from page one. What I love about it is that it is going through everything I need to know in an honest, cool conversational style that isn't putting me to sleep. Yet the language and content is still intelligent- unlike other "Dummies"- type guides that kind of talk to you like you're, well, a dummy... and have no common sense or basic knowledge. Also, it tells you how the test grading works- the test itself is a dynamic computer program that changes difficulty/ amount of points you can get for a limited number of question- so you can trick it out to get the most points for what you know without having to be a genius.
Also, the book is so logical, it's like, "Oh, that's why I suck at these questions! And here's the way you're supposed to think about the questions to get them right. And here are the tricks (well, it's logic, not really tricks) for how to guess the right answer- even if you have no clue!!!" Sweet.
There's also a section on how to get into grad school- sweeeeet for the clueless like myself.
So the first 50 pages of the book are awesome so far. I think the rest will be, too. I haven't looked at the math stuff yet. I actually ordered another couple math books- the one review one with the giant pi on the cover and the blue EZ Solutions Math Strategies one for getting them done faster.
Grad School or bust! Was this too long? I hope it helped!
- Great book
By AKTPK9SM6KQRS on 2007-09-03
Kaplan GRE is a great book that will help you to do well in your exam, i really recommend it
- Buy this
By A1IZ6UH9V32GLG on 2008-01-07
This book helped me a lot. The info about the test was worth the price of the book and the practice tests on the CD were exactly like the real thing. Many of the vocab words in the book actually appeared on the test as well. With only a month to prepare, I would've been in big trouble without this. This book will help you score higher.
- Excellent Study Guide for the GRE
By A2HX5K6MQO2XEI on 2007-10-22
This is an excellent resource for those that are attempting to take the GRE exam. The CD-ROM was an invaluable tool.
- Simply good
By A3LE7P4BA8R8U1 on 2007-10-24
Excelent product. With less than a month to prepare GRE, this book gave me the key for the success in the test, with a simple, precise and very helpful study techniques. If you don't have the time or the money to make a course, this book is what you need.
- Satisfy..
By A1P0NNJD47PBCP on 2007-12-07
Everything is on point with the product purchase... From condition to inside information.. Well worth the price...
- Kaplan 2008 GRE premier book
By A3TJKAMDGUOAYB on 2008-04-28
Its Great. Math is explained in steps. Easy to follow and understand.
As an immigrant, American grammar is not what I am used to. Verbal is helpful.
I encourage you to buy the GRE IN A BOX FLASH CARD as well.
Great buy!
- Online component not available till June
By AFVFX7R25RU22 on 2008-05-27
Shame on Amazon (but I can't leave a bad review for them) for not mentioning that the online component isn't available for premier package 2008 users until 1 June. I realize there are only a few days to go but that information would've been helpful last month when I ordered the book.
The book has alot of test taking strategy but I won't know how effective it is until I take the GRE. I guess its alright if you can get past the abundant self-promotion from Kaplan. Every other sentence is promoting Kaplan or advertising some other Kaplan product you can spend money on.
- The book with the CD-ROM really helps simulate an actual CAT.
By A1POFVVXUZR3IQ on 2008-06-17
I bought the Kaplan GRE Premier Program 2008 edition that comes with the CD-Rom. Note: the CD is only compatible with Windows version 1.0. Though I personally found the book to be less effective than Barron's GRE prep book [for one, I thought Barron's was better organised and had more content in it], the CD-Rom by Kaplan was very useful.
The CD-rom provides access to practice tests for the verbal and quantitative components of the GRE [three tests each]. In addition, we get three CATs with the full exam on each [i.e. the written, verbal and quantitative components]. Once one takes the CATs, a score is provided scaled from 200-800 [except for the essays]. It also provides a detailed answer list with explanations. On the whole, this is a good buy for those preparing to take the GRE.
- Great!
By A2ZM5BTU46UORN on 2007-09-11
Its a great resource and provides enough information about the GRE, that by the time you finish reading it, you feel ready to take the test!
- good for the gre test taker
By A19VOEIHMJAMJD on 2008-01-14
I won't say this book is the finest but it's just great for results. Remember however that you would have to sit down to study. Merely acquiring the book aint gettin' you the score.
Kaplan is great!
- Great!
By A2KDKTE6XZO8CH on 2008-01-28
It is an exteremly in depth and comprehensive view of the GRE. With its step by step teaching style, it is a MUST for any college student looking to continue their graduate studies. I haven't taken the exam yet, but I'm sure it has helped me!
- Basic Guide With Tricks
By A38ACCH0HILMIL on 2008-03-01
Have used several testing prep products in the past, and have even taken a Kaplan course for a different test. Using this tool as a quick prep (less than 3 weeks) to take the test for a return to school from the working community, I did not find it as useful as other out there (i.e., Barron's prep book). I actually used it in conjuction with another test guide, and it turns out that I only referenced the Kaplan book occasionally. It does not offer as many prep questions, tutorials, etc. as do some of the other books. The Kaplan book provides mostly tricks and strategies to approach the questions. However, I did not use the CD that comes with it, so some may find that to be more useful.
- very helpful
By AO7WU81T5JG0P on 2008-03-06
i am currently using this book to study and feel it is full of helpful hints (will update once i take the test)
- There are better books for studying
By A3JWSQIP9B2KSO on 2008-04-01
This book is a very brief overview if you need more indepth studying then I suggest the ETS brand of books. This one does not dumb anything down and explanations for analagies for example is only two pages on how many what they are and ways to solve them the rest is just practice questions. I need better explanations for things then this book had to offer.
- Pretty Good
By A38AD9N0DYQVPQ on 2008-04-07
Got 550 in the verbal section and 680 in the quantitative section after studying with this book.
- GOOD FOR ORGANIZATION
By A8WXWN2RWWRHL on 2008-05-18
It was a good product for organizing study time, etc. I didn't like that it didn't give me a score on the tests. It gave me a % correct. I couldn't translate this to 200-800...Overall, it was helpful.
- Comprehensive and Good Tips
By A1WH7SLHN0JI3B on 2008-05-19
This book offers lots of little tips for studying, explains how to approach the different types of problems. I found it interesting reading. At least as interesting as it can get given the subject matter.
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