When working through multiple-choice questions on the GRE Verbal section, one common problem is losing track of which answer choices have already been eliminated. This often slows test-takers down. Without a clear record of what has been ruled out, you may end up reviewing the same incorrect options more than once, which wastes valuable time.

A standard way to handle this is to mark eliminated choices on the scratch pad provided during the test. While this can work, it requires shifting your attention from the computer screen to the pad and taking extra time to write. These small interruptions can add up over the course of the section. An ideal approach is one that keeps your focus on the screen while also allowing you to track your eliminations quickly and accurately.

That is exactly what the five-finger method provides. Here is how it works. Place one of your hands near the screen and let each finger represent an answer choice. Your thumb represents choice A, and your other four fingers represent choices B through E. Begin with all five fingers extended. As you eliminate a choice, fold in the finger that corresponds to it. If you change your mind and decide that a choice remains possible, simply unfold the finger.

Although the technique is simple, it is highly effective. Folding a finger creates a fast and visible signal that an option is no longer under consideration. This prevents you from wasting time on answers you already know are incorrect. It also helps you remain visually and mentally organized while keeping your eyes on the test itself. Over the course of the Verbal section, the seconds saved by avoiding unnecessary rereading can accumulate into several minutes of extra time. That additional time can be critical for tackling more challenging questions.

There is also a subtle psychological benefit. The act of folding and unfolding your fingers gives you a sense of control and order at a time when fatigue and stress can easily disrupt concentration. The physical action reinforces your thought process and provides a simple, reliable system that you can trust under pressure.

In short, the five-finger method is an easy but powerful way to keep track of answer choices without losing focus. By adopting it, you improve your efficiency, conserve mental energy, and give yourself a stronger chance of completing the Verbal section within the allotted time.

Reach out to me with any questions about your GRE prep. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep