GRE Analytical Writing (AWA Essay)

Did you know that nearly 90% of graduate programs in the U.S. consider your GRE Analytical Writing score as a key part of your application? Yet, many students tend to overlook this section, assuming it’s less important than the Quant or Verbal parts.

The reality is that many test-takers find the AWA challenging because they’re unsure how to structure their essays or present clear arguments under time pressure. This is why you need a solid GRE action plan. It’s not just about writing; it’s about thinking critically and expressing ideas effectively. But with the right approach and practice, you can tackle this section with confidence and make a strong impression.

What is GRE Analytical Writing?

The GRE Analytical Writing section is designed to assess your critical thinking and writing skills. This part of the GRE general test includes two analytical writing tasks: the Issue essay and the Argument essay. In each task, you’ll need to analyze a prompt and present a clear argument with reasons and examples to support your position.

To prepare for the analytical writing section, it’s important to practice writing essays under the 30-minute time limit for each task. The ETS has published the entire pool of prompts, allowing you to get familiar with what to expect.

Whether you agree or disagree with the prompt, your goal is to build a persuasive argument, supported by well-thought-out reasons and examples. Effective brainstorming, clear paragraph structure, and following specific instructions will help you assess and evaluate the argument task more confidently.

What’s Tested on the GRE: Analytical Writing?

The Analytical Writing section of the GRE general test assesses your analytical writing skills, focusing on both thinking and persuasive writing. On test day, you’ll face two tasks: one issue and one argument. Each task presents an opinion on an issue or requires you to evaluate someone else’s argument, and your goal is to develop an argument using examples to support your views. When you prepare your GRE study plan, keep this in mind.

The analytical writing measure consists of tasks where you use a basic word processor developed by ETS. This word processor contains the following functionalities: the ability to insert text, delete text, but grammar checkers are not available. Understanding the scoring criteria, scoring guide, and reviewing sample essay responses with rater commentary can help you prepare.

Whether you agree or disagree with the statement, your essay responses are assessed on how well you articulate your argument within the 30-minute time limit. Spending time preparing by reviewing the entire pool of tasks, practicing with scored sample essays, and familiarizing yourself with the actual GRE instructions on how to respond can help you avoid common pitfalls that detract from the overall effectiveness of your argumentation. Also, clear the basics like does GRE have negative marking and so on.

What is the GRE Essay?

The GRE essay, part of the Analytical Writing section, includes two tasks: the Issue essay and the Argument essay. In the Issue essay, you’re asked to respond to a statement and develop your own perspective using reasons and examples to support your position. In the Argument essay, your task is to evaluate someone else’s argument, identifying its strengths and weaknesses. Both essays are designed to assess your ability to think critically and express your ideas clearly, within a 30-minute time limit for each task. Just like how you can find frequently asked GRE math questions, you can do the same for essays as well.

GRE Analytical Writing: Timing

In the GRE Analytical Writing section, time management plays a key role in performing well. You have 30 minutes for each task—the Issue essay and the Argument essay. It’s important to use this time wisely to craft a clear and coherent response. Typically, you should spend the first 2-3 minutes carefully reading the prompt and brainstorming ideas. This helps in organizing your thoughts and creating a rough outline. In between, make a list of all the documents needed for GRE exam as well.

Next, devote about 20 minutes to writing the essay, making sure to develop your argument logically with relevant examples. The last 3-5 minutes should be reserved for reviewing your work, checking for any errors, and making quick revisions. By sticking to this approach, you can effectively manage the time pressure and produce well-structured essays that meet the GRE’s expectations.

GRE Analytical Writing: Format

The GRE Analytical Writing section consists of two essay tasks: the Issue essay and the Argument essay. Each has its own format and approach.

For the Issue essay, you’ll be given a statement on a general topic. Your task is to take a position, either agreeing or disagreeing with the statement, and develop a coherent argument using reasons and examples. The format typically follows this structure: an introduction where you present your thesis, body paragraphs where you expand on your points with supporting examples, and a conclusion that summarizes your argument.

For the Argument essay, you’ll be asked to analyze an argument presented in a short passage. Your goal is not to agree or disagree with the argument but to evaluate its logical soundness. The format involves an introduction where you summarize the argument, body paragraphs that identify flaws or strengths, and a conclusion that discusses the overall validity of the argument. In both essays, clarity, logical organization, and effective use of examples are key to a strong response. With the right strategies, you can crack the GRE in 2 months as well.

How Long Should My GRE Essay Be?

There’s no strict word count for the GRE essays, but the quality of your writing is more important than the length. Generally, a well-developed essay might be around 400-600 words, depending on how thoroughly you can cover your points within the 30-minute time limit for each task.

The focus should be on clearly presenting your argument, supporting it with relevant examples, and organizing your thoughts logically. While longer essays tend to offer more detail, it’s crucial that every sentence contributes to your overall argument rather than just increasing the word count.

Tips on Approaching the GRE Analytical Writing Section

Approaching the GRE Analytical Writing section can feel daunting, but with the right strategies, you can tackle it confidently. This section of the test challenges your ability to think critically and express your ideas clearly, all within a tight time frame. 

Understand the Task

Before you start writing, make sure you clearly understand what each essay requires. The Issue essay asks you to take a position on a statement, while the Argument essay requires you to evaluate the logical soundness of an argument. You can crack the GRE even in one month with the right strategies.

Practice Regularly

Consistent practice with sample prompts from the GRE pool will help you get comfortable with the timing and format. Practice writing essays within the 30-minute time limit to build speed and efficiency. Some people find GRE age problems hard, while some find the verbal section hard. Understand your weak point and practice accordingly.

Develop a Clear Structure

For both essays, follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This not only organizes your thoughts but also makes it easier for the reader (and the grader) to follow your argument.

Focus on Clarity and Logic

Your writing should be clear and concise. Avoid overly complex sentences or vocabulary. Instead, focus on presenting a logical argument supported by relevant examples.

Review and Revise

Leave a few minutes at the end of each essay to review your work. Look for any errors or unclear points and make quick revisions. This final review can significantly improve the quality of your response.

Don’t Neglect the Argument Essay

Many test-takers focus more on the Issue essay, but the Argument essay is equally important. Practice evaluating arguments critically, looking for assumptions, evidence, and logical flaws.

Conclusion

Doing well on the GRE Analytical Writing section is about more than just good writing; it’s about clear thinking, effective argumentation, and efficient time management. By understanding the tasks, practicing regularly, and applying the strategies we’ve discussed, you can approach this section with confidence. Remember, the key is to stay focused, be clear in your reasoning, and support your arguments with strong examples. With the right preparation, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity to showcase your critical thinking skills to graduate programs.

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