You can prepare for the GED on your own, at home, one subject at a time. Because each of the four subjects is a separate test, you don’t have to study everything at once. Here’s a simple plan.

1. Take a practice test in each subject

Start by finding out where you stand. Take a practice test in each subject and note your score and the topics you missed. Try ours for Math, Language Arts, Social Studies and Science.

2. Schedule your strongest subject first

Passing one subject early builds confidence and momentum. Many people start with Social Studies or Science, which lean heavily on reading passages and graphs.

3. Give Math the most time

Math is the subject most people find hardest, often because they haven’t used algebra or geometry in years. Work steadily through:

• Fractions, decimals, percents and ratios
• Equations and inequalities
• Graphs, slope and functions
• Area, perimeter and volume, using the formula sheet

4. Practice the essay

The Language Arts test includes a 45-minute essay. Practice reading two opposing passages and explaining which argument is better supported. See the GED essay guide.

5. Check yourself with GED Ready

Before you book each subject, take the official GED Ready practice test. A score in the green “likely to pass” range is a good sign you’re ready, and it’s required if you want to test online at home.

How long does it take?

It depends on where you start. Someone who left school recently may need only a few weeks per subject; someone returning after many years may need a few months for Math. Short, regular sessions, such as 30 to 60 minutes most days, usually work better than occasional long ones.

Study tips

• Study at the same time each day, in a quiet place.
• Review every question you miss until you understand why the right answer is right.
• Use timed practice so the real time limits feel familiar.
• Your local adult education center may offer free GED classes and help with scheduling.