Basic Description
Barrons 1100 Words You Need to Know is a 400-plus page book designed to increase your vocabulary. Lessons are divided into 48 weeks, with each week consisting of four daily lessons and one review day. Each lesson contains fill-in-the blank and matching questions. The paperback version has a list price of USD $13.99 and can be purchased for USD $10.88 on Amazon.
The books approach to defining words is unique. Instead of providing definitions first, a paragraph is presented and the reader has to figure out (or at least get a feel for) the italicized vocabulary words. Review exercises immediately follow to reinforce the material and definitions are provided at the end of the daily lesson.
Pros
1. Learning Method Lessons are fast-paced and more engaging than memorizing a standard word list. The unique method of introducing new words also provides a different way of learning.
2. Affordability The price is low, especially considering the amount of material and physical quality of the book.
Cons
1. Not GRE-specific- Though there is considerable overlap with GRE vocabulary, this book does not specifically cater to that test.
2. Difficulty Level There are too many simple words found in the word list and terms are vaguely defined at times. This can leave the reader with a superficial understanding of some of the vocabulary.
Closing Remarks
1100 Words You Need to Know serves as a great start to your GRE preparation. While the book probably contains too many easy words and can feel a bit easy at times, theres still enough new vocabulary and practice exercises to justify a purchase. More study material is needed for an adequate study plan, however, so supplement this resource with flashcards, reading books and news periodicals, GRE-specific guidebooks, and websites such as wordnik or dynamo.![]()
Barrons 1100 Words You Need to Know is a 400-plus page book designed to increase your vocabulary. Lessons are divided into 48 weeks, with each week consisting of four daily lessons and one review day. Each lesson contains fill-in-the blank and matching questions. The paperback version has a list price of USD $13.99 and can be purchased for USD $10.88 on Amazon.
The books approach to defining words is unique. Instead of providing definitions first, a paragraph is presented and the reader has to figure out (or at least get a feel for) the italicized vocabulary words. Review exercises immediately follow to reinforce the material and definitions are provided at the end of the daily lesson.
Pros
1. Learning Method Lessons are fast-paced and more engaging than memorizing a standard word list. The unique method of introducing new words also provides a different way of learning.
2. Affordability The price is low, especially considering the amount of material and physical quality of the book.
Cons
1. Not GRE-specific- Though there is considerable overlap with GRE vocabulary, this book does not specifically cater to that test.
2. Difficulty Level There are too many simple words found in the word list and terms are vaguely defined at times. This can leave the reader with a superficial understanding of some of the vocabulary.
Closing Remarks
1100 Words You Need to Know serves as a great start to your GRE preparation. While the book probably contains too many easy words and can feel a bit easy at times, theres still enough new vocabulary and practice exercises to justify a purchase. More study material is needed for an adequate study plan, however, so supplement this resource with flashcards, reading books and news periodicals, GRE-specific guidebooks, and websites such as wordnik or dynamo.