If you're looking into formal GRE Subject Test in Literature test prep to help you study for the exam, Varsity Tutors can find you a private GRE Literature Test class to help you build up your self-confidence. The GRE Subject Tests are high-stakes exams about a specific academic discipline that certain graduate programs around the country may use as part of the admissions process. GRE Literature Test prep can be challenging if you try to go it alone, so enroll in one of our GRE Subject Test in Literature courses to take your prep to a new level!
One of the first components of GRE Literature Test prep is typically developing an idea of what you should expect on test day. The test draws reading passages from multiple countries (Britain, U.S.), time periods (Milton-Present), and genres (poetry, prose, drama, etc.). The table below illustrates a typical breakdown of the exam's questions:
GRE Subject Test in Literature Breakdown by Literary-Historical Scope | Percentage of Exam |
Continental, Classical and Comparative Literature through 1925 | 5-10 |
British Literature to 1660 (including Milton) | 25-30 |
British Literature 1660-1925 | 25-35 |
American Literature through 1925 | 15-25 |
American, British and World Literatures after 1925 | 20-30 |
You're probably more comfortable with some of that material than the rest of it. For example, if you have a hard time deciphering Middle English, you might study a work such as Milton's Paradise Lost with GRE Literature Test tutors as part of your GRE Subject Test in Literature prep. Similarly, you might review poetry from different time periods if it's never really been your forte. Private GRE Literature Test prep affords you the flexibility to focus on whatever you see fit to enhance your study efficiency.
It's also possible that you would prefer to work on more generic skills during your GRE Subject Test in Literature test prep. The bulleted list below highlights some of the skills you may want to incorporate into your GRE Literature Test preparation:
GRE Subject Test in Literature Topics (non-comprehensive)
- Interpretation of passages of prose and poetry
- Recognition of conventions and genres
- Recognition of date, author or work by style and/or content
- Knowledge of literary, cultural and intellectual history
- Identification of details of character, plot, or setting of a work
- Identification and analysis of the characteristics and methods of various critical and theoretical approaches
Most of those bullets demand a close reading of the test, so you may practice active reading skills during GRE Literature Test tutoring sessions to help you quickly identify key pieces of information. For instance, taking notes as you go along can be a great way to ensure that you are really paying attention to everything you are reading. You may also consult your notes while answering the questions, as it's probably faster than looking up every answer. The GRE Subject Test in Literature is timed, so every minute of the 170 available to you matters!
A private GRE Language Test course may also be tailored to your individual learning style. If you are somebody who has to do something to learn it, your GRE Subject Test in Literature test preparation may consist exclusively of practice exams to give you as much experience as possible. Alternatively, a more theoretical learner could focus more on the underlying skills demanded by the exam.
We also try to make GRE Language Test classes as accessible as possible. You can meet with your tutor on our Live Learning Platform, allowing you to meet face-to-face without having to be in the same room. Likewise, we try to match every student with a teacher who fits into their schedule. Who wants to stop living their life just for GRE Subject Test in Literature prep?
Reach out to Varsity Tutors today if you want to learn more about the GRE Literature Test prep solutions we offer. Educational Directors are available to answer any questions you may have!

Aakash: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...for postgraduate research, including a US-UK Fulbright Award and a Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship. My areas of competency include English, Art History, Rhetoric, Spanish, and French. I am also proficient in SAT, GRE, and GRE Subject Test in English. My first Master of Arts is in English from the University of Sussex (UK) and my second is in Rhetoric from UC Berkeley. I am happy to work with students at all stages and...
Education & Certification
- Swarthmore College - Bachelors, English Literature
- University of California-Berkeley - Masters, Rhetoric
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Conversational Spanish
- PSAT Writing Skills
- Spanish 4
- +46 subjects

Anna: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...tutoring have led me to the firm belief that literary analysis and clear writing are not mysterious talents that you either have or you don'tinstead, I believe anyone can become a better interpreter of literature and a better writer with practice and encouragement. In my free time, I enjoy walking my dog, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, going to art museums, and catching up on "Game of Thrones" or "Project Runway."
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelor in Arts, Literature and Cultural Theory
- University of Virginia-Main Campus - PHD, English Language and Literature
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- GRE Subject Tests
- SAT Writing and Language
- GRE Analytical Writing
- +22 subjects

Ashley: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...and Master degrees and became a secondary English teacher. I have had much experience in the educational arena and have worked with varying age groups, skill levels, and course work. I have instructed from the middle school level to the collegiate level. Aside from my formal teaching and tutoring, I have also had the opportunity to be a mother and teach my own children. I have a passion for both literature and writing and enjoy...
Education & Certification
- Oregon State University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Western Oregon University - Master of Arts, Teaching in Language Arts
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- Study Skills
- +29 subjects

Alicia: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...enjoy tutoring standardized tests like the SAT and GRE because I can teach my students tips and tricks that can give them some peace of mind in high-pressure situations. My primary teaching philosophy is to look at each student as an individual. Rather than seeing students as a collective whole that can best be served by implementing uniform methods of teaching, I think of tutoring as something that needs to be modified to fit each...
Education & Certification
- Lawrence University - Bachelor in Arts, English, music
- University of Iowa - Master of Arts, Literary Studies
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- English
- GRE Verbal
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +31 subjects

Kathryn: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...am dedicated to my work as a professional teacher. Lessons in my classroom include: grammar explanations suited to your level, clear expectations and rules, and eye-catching visuals. I teach all levels of student, from YOUNG LEARNERS to students preparing for the IELTS or TOEFL. I make my students feel comfortable by using pictures, toys, and stories to get to know them. My class has a friendly and creative environment that helps students express their ideas...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- A Level English Literature
- College Level American Literature
- Spanish 2
- +49 subjects

Jerrell: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...writing, and literature. I am also well-suited to any subjects in history, the social sciences, and world religions. I have 4 years of experience working with Second-language English learners. I am truly at my best when I am helping to teach or tutor students, and you will find that my style is energetic and encouraging. Writing is all about making your readers as excited about the topic as you are, so I try to bring...
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Science
- A Level
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Laurie: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
As an experienced teacher, I believe that all students, given the right encouragement and guidance, are capable of learning; and it is my responsibility to provide a safe and productive learning environment for their successful achievement.
Education & Certification
- Florida Atlantic University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Walden University - Master of Science, Computer Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- High School Writing
- AP English Literature and Composition
- Academic Coaching
- +34 subjects

James: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...needed assistance with something that was just fun for me. Practicing for my own PSATs and SATs, watching my scores (practice and real) go up and up gave me a satisfaction that its almost indescribable. Helping people reach their own goals, and seeing them succeed is really important for me. My approach is more relaxed, because learning should always be fun. I believe in practice making close to perfect, and repetition is key. The easiest...
Education & Certification
- Catholic University of America - Bachelors, Music and Psychology
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Elementary School Science
- High School Writing
- 4th Grade Writing
- +133 subjects

Stephanie: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...the support and encouragement of a passionate teacher can turn a diffident or apathetic underachieving student into a classroom star. My favorite subject to tutor is standardized test prep (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.) because such tests cover a finite body of material that can be taught and mastered. In addition to test prep, I also tutor a number of English related subjects (including Writing, Literature, Essay Editing, and Grammar), and offer help with Study Skills...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelors, Cinema and Media Studies / English Language and Literature
- University of Iowa - Masters, Film Studies
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- ACT English
- OAT
- ACT
- +77 subjects

Christy: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...school English in December, 2014. I have tutored in college preparatory and 10th grade English classes at Soldan High School, and I have also served as a volunteer tutor at the International Institute of St. Louis, assisting high school students with English coursework. In addition, I worked for ten years at Washington University Medical School as a technical writer and research administrator. I very much enjoy being in the classroom and helping students reach their...
Education & Certification
- McGill University - Bachelor in Arts, English Literature
- Washington University - Master of Arts, English Literature
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- AP European History
- College Essays
- AP United States History
- +17 subjects

Marshall: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...History, Essay Writing and Editing, Study Skills, Organization, AP Courses, College Preparation, and many others. I primarily work with students from 9th grade to 12th grade and college students, but I am open to helping anyone! My career has taken many paths. I have primarily worked in Higher Education and I am working on applying for my Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Policy. I also spent time working in Washington D.C. for the U.S....
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Rhetoric and Composition
- University of North Texas - Master of Arts, General Literature
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Spelling Bee
- Music
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- +182 subjects

Susan: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...tutoring writing for 24 years. I am an expert on grammar and mechanics. I can help you develop your thesis, your argument, your paragraphs, your introduction, and your conclusion. I am incredibly good at helping write college application essays. In addition, I can help you find quality research and integrate it professionally into your essays. I do test prep as well, from elementary through graduate student. I'm also patient and kind, and I care very...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, French
- Carnegie Mellon University - PHD, Rhetoric
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- GRE Subject Test in Psychology
- IB Theory of Knowledge
- Writing
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David: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
David Sanchez is a writer and English professor from Tampa, FL. He is currently a James A. Michener Creative Writing Fellow at the University of Miami where he is an MFA candidate in fiction. He also teaches English composition and creative writing at UM. His poetry and fiction have been published in Thread Literary Inquiry, The Missing Slate: International Literature & Art Magazine, and Momma Tried Magazine.
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, English
- University of Miami - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Middle School Writing
- ACT
- College Level American Literature
- +23 subjects

Rachel: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...a college English professor at Suffolk County Community College , and have been tutoring students of all ages in English, math, and history for ten years. I experience joy every time I can help a struggling student understand, or even enjoy a subject. I am very experienced in tailoring lessons to meet an individual's needs, so no matter what your issue is, we can figure out how to solve it together! I look forward to...
Education & Certification
- Stony Brook University - Bachelors, English
- Hofstra University - Masters, English and Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- American Literature
- PSAT Writing Skills
- High School Writing
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Thwana: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...also taught social studies, science, and math, to middle and high school students. I also have experience tutoring the ACT and SAT, mainly the English/Reading sections. As you can see, I've taught a lot! I am proud to say that I have worked with gifted students, as well as Special Education students. I believe each student is individual in his or her learning style. I hold degrees in Middle Grades Education, English, English Education 6-12,...
Education & Certification
- Kennesaw State University - Bachelor of Education, High School Teaching
- Walden University - Masters in Business Administration, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- SAT Reading
- PSAT Writing Skills
- Elementary School Reading
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Suzannah: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...hold an MA in English and Creative Writing from the University of Toronto and a BA from The University of King's College. I'm also an author: my essays and journalism have appeared in numerous magazines and literary journals, and my second book of poetry is forthcoming from a Penguin Random House imprint next year. I'm passionate about reading, writing, an analyzing the written word. I especially love helping students find their voice and express themselves...
Education & Certification
- University of King's College - Bachelors, Combined First Class Honors English and Contemporary Studies
- University of Toronto - Masters, English in the Field of Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- English
- High School English
- Gifted
- +22 subjects

Martin: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
I have been teaching 18- to 22-year-old students at the college level since 1995. I love imparting to them my own passion for the English language and its literary heritage, from Chaucer through our best 21st-century writers. I am particularly absorbed by the history of fiction, drama, and poetry in English, and I hope to continue to teach such love of the written word to curious students today.
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor of Science, Ancient Greek
- Duke University - Master of Arts, English
- Duke University - Doctor of Philosophy, English
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Classics
- A Level English Literature
- Expository Writing
- +60 subjects

Jonathan: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...done in total isolation anyway but rather is always a social exercise and activity. The best teaching and learning then, I think, allows us to consider knowledge, from the most practical to the most abstract, as both social exercise and activity. This means, as exercise, that we get comfortable with the necessary repetitions of learning--reading and writing, listening and speaking with consideration. As social activity, strong teaching and learning allows us to consider knowledge production...
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts Amherst - Bachelors, English
- Wayne State University - Current Grad Student, General Literature
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- IB Film
- Middle School Writing
- GRE Analytical Writing
- +53 subjects

John: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...the visual arts, Star Wars and Star Trek, and the Middle Ages. I love being outdoors and am an avid hiker and backpacker. I also love to travel and have wandered across the United States, Mexico, Peru, India, and England. I hope to return to India one day and dream of going to Thailand and Tibet. My work schedule keeps me fairly busy and my cats Linus and Fergus keep me perpetually on my toes,...
Education & Certification
- Davidson College - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Texas State University-San Marcos - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing (Poetry)
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Graduate Test Prep
- Shakespeare
- Creative Writing
- +26 subjects

Neil: GRE Subject Test in Literature in English test prep instructor
...range of subjects, Philosophy, English, Psychology and History are my preferred areas of study. Tutoring is incredibly important to me because knowledge is power, and I love empowering others as they pursue their dreams. I particularly enjoy tutoring Philosophy because it allows students to develop thinking skills that can be applied to other subjects. I have an extensive background in individualized instruction gleaned from teaching music to students of all ages and skill levels for...
Education & Certification
- Florida State University - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- GRE Subject Test in Psychology
- World History
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- +323 subjects