Many GRE test-takers fall into a familiar trap: steering clear of Quant question types they struggle with the most. It’s natural to gravitate toward problems that feel manageable and to shy away from ones that have led to repeated mistakes. But the areas you avoid are often the ones with the biggest potential to boost your score. One of the most effective ways to improve GRE Quant performance is to pinpoint the question types you hope won’t show up on test day—and then practice them until they no longer intimidate you.

This shift requires a change in mindset. Initially, certain problems may trigger uncertainty or stress. Over time, focused and repeated practice can transform that discomfort into confidence. When a former weakness becomes familiar territory, accuracy improves and nerves settle. Instead of fearing a particular question type, you enter the exam knowing you’re prepared for it.

Targeting weak areas also makes you a more efficient test-taker. Each problem you confidently solve in a once-troublesome category means fewer rushed guesses, fewer skipped questions, and better use of your time. You gain points where you previously lost them, while conserving energy for questions that demand more complex thinking.

The takeaway is straightforward: avoiding weaknesses slows progress, while confronting them drives improvement. If raising your GRE Quant score is the goal, focus your practice on the problems you’re tempted to ignore. With steady effort, those questions can become some of your strongest.

If you have questions about your GRE prep strategy, feel free to reach out. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep