Social Studies: What You Need to Know
The GED Social Studies test focuses on U.S. history and gives you context to understand the nation, the world and society as a whole. It covers a variety of different topics, but don’t worry it’s not a memorization test. We know trying to remember a bunch of dates or capitals wouldn’t be fun!
Test Topics
The Social Studies section of the GED includes three different topics:
- Reading for Meaning in Social Studies
- Analyzing Historical Events and Arguments in Social Studies
- Using Numbers and Graphs in Social Studies
Format of the Social Studies Test
There is only one section on the GED Social Studies test. It is 70 minutes long and there are no breaks. A calculator is allowed and a calculator reference sheet will be provided.
There are also different question types including multiple choice, drag and drop, fill-in-the-blank, select an area and drop down.
How to Prepare
There are many ways to prepare for the Social Studies test. Start by logging in to your account and checking out our free study guide that will help familiarize you with what to expect on the test. Additionally, there are free practice questions so you’ll know exactly how questions are formatted!
Now, once you’re feeling confident, take the official GED Ready practice test. Students use GED Ready to see exactly how prepared they are for the actual test. If you score in the green it means you’re ready to schedule your test, but if you score in the red or yellow you may need more practice. Don’t worry, GED Ready will provide you with a study guide to help you see any areas you may need to improve.
Good luck and comment below your favorite social studies topics!
Thanks for everything
I’m taking social studies next week October 24, 2019
Hi Yahman, good luck on your test! Please reach out if you have any questions beforehand!
Why does one have to buy 100 GED Ready Tests for Corrections? I am assuming those GED Ready tests can be used on stand a lone machines. Can a smaller quantity be purchased? Can one get a sample of 1 of the GED Ready Tests for Corrections?
Hi Al Alba! Thank you for reaching out. Please email storehelp@ged.com for more information and we’d be happy to assist you!
Can’t find form to copy from help@gedtesting servcies.com for Corrections questions forms; to set up jail accounts.
need asap! Can you email me the form?
Hi Holly! Everything you need to know about Corrections can be found here: https://ged.com/educators_admins/test_admin/corrections/. For further questions please email help@ged.com.
Are the flash cards enough to help study to pass
Hi Morgan! We offer a great tool that is exactly like flash cards that can help you pass. GED Flash offers thousands of practice questions, specifically for social studies. For more information click here.
No flashcards are not enough. Flashcards quiz content only. Most students need to practice how to answer the questions. There is a 1/4 length test on the website, and you can also do a practice test called the GED Ready
Hi Rita! You’re correct we suggest all of our students take the GED Ready as well to see how they’ll score on the actual exam.
I need help and I cant find it
Hi Maya! What can we help you with?
I’ve took SS 4 times,I made a 144 and didn’t pass, I was devastated 🤦🏿♀️ I really gave up on it ,is it anything anyone wants to share with me on how to pass this test,This is the only one I’m having a hard time passing ,I pass the other 3 , I’m just ready to get it over with
Hi Monica! We’re sorry to hear that. Keep trying, we offer thousands of practice questions through GED Flash. You can also check out our free social studies study guide!
Monica, I can offer up a couple of things. First, go back to your GED Ready test and look at the diagnostic to see which areas you needed work on. (Look at the scores page and scroll down) If you don’t have one, try a library for the big blue GED book and seek out those areas in that book for extra practice.
Also, the SS is similar to the Reading test – you’ll find the answers in the readings using context clues. I recommend going through each answer option and asking “Does the reading say anything about this?” or “Does the text show evidence of what this question is asking?” Also, understanding maps and graphs and charts is helpful on the SS section.
Don’t be discouraged! You’ve passed 3 tests before this one and you’ll pass this one too!
Is there a certain number of questions in the social studies section or any subject at all?
For more info on the social studies test go here: https://ged.com/about_test/test_subjects/social_studies/.