How to Prepare for GRE Analytical Writing Section?

The GRE Analytical Writing section can feel overwhelming if you are not used to writing essays under time pressure. But once you understand what the test expects and how to structure your answers, it becomes manageable and easy. In this article, we will explore what analytical writing is all about and how you can succeed in this section.

What is Assessed by the GRE Analytical Writing Section(AWA)?

The Analytical Writing section measures the following:

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  You can convert complex ideas clearly into writing.
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  Support ideas with relevant reasons and examples
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  Examine claims and accompanying evidence
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  Maintain a well-focused and coherent discussion
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  Showcase control of written English

Current Format of the GRE Analytical Writing Section(AWA)

The following is the current format of the GRE analytical writing section:

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  Number of sections: 1 section
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  Number of questions: 1 essay task of analysing a situation, an incident or an issue.
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  Time allowed: 30 minutes

What is the Analyse an Issue Task?

In this task, you are presented with a statement or claim, then you will be asked to take a position and justify your viewpoint with examples and reasoning. Please note that you will not be graded for your opinion, instead, you will be graded on how well you support your opinion. We have given an example question for better clarity:

"Governments should focus more on solving the immediate problems of today rather than on trying to solve the anticipated problems of the future."

Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement. Support your views with reasoning and examples.

Watch this video to learn more about GRE scores:

How is the AWA Scored?

The Analytical Writing section is scored from 0 to 6, in half-point increments. Two trained graders (along with a computer algorithm) evaluate each essay based on:

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  Clarity and logic of your argument
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  Use of examples and reasoning
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  Organisation of thoughts and their coherence
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  Grammar and sentence structure
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  Vocabulary and language control

Please note that a score of 4.0 is considered average, but if you are aiming for top-tier colleges, then 5.0+ is considered good and 6.0 is excellent. Now, let us get a closer look at the structure of a high-scoring essay.

Structure of a High-Scoring Essay

We have given a simple structure that is appreciated and helps you score well in AWA:

Introduction:

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  Paraphrase the prompt
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  State your thesis (agree/disagree)
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  Mention your main points briefly

Body Paragraphs:

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  Each paragraph covers one point.
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  Start with a topic sentence.
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  Provide reasoning and real or hypothetical examples.

Counterargument (optional):

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  Address the opposing side
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  Explain why your view is stronger (give a proper explanation)

Conclusion:

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  Restate your thesis and main points
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  End with a strong closing sentence

Sample Essay Outline for AWA:

Prompt: "Society should identify those children who have special talents and provide training to develop them at an early age."

Thesis: I agree that early identification and training can help talented children thrive.

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  Paragraph 1: Benefits of early training (for example - sports, music)
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  Paragraph 2: Examples of successful early development (example - child prodigies)
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  Paragraph 3: Risks if talents go unnoticed
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  Paragraph 4 (Counterpoint): Possible harm to pressure young children, but with balance, it works
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  Conclusion: Restate support for early nurturing with care

GRE AWA Score Table

We have given a table below to help you understand the GRE analytical writing score and what the expectations of the examiner are:

Tips to Ace the AWA Essay

You can follow the tips mentioned below to excel in your GRE Analytical Writing exam:

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  Practice writing under time: Set a timer for 30 minutes and write full essays. Use real ETS prompts. Do not just plant, write!

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  Analyse high-scoring essays: Read sample essays from the ETS website or guides like Manhattan Prep. Observe how they present arguments in a logical and connected manner.

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  Build a template: Have a basic structure in mind. This saves time during the exam.

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  Use examples: Support your ideas with examples - personal, historical, or hypothetical. This shows depth of thought.

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  Focus on clarity, not complexity: Do not try to impress with big words. Write clearly and logically.

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  Proofread if time allows: If you have a minute or two left, quickly review your grammar and fix typing mistakes.

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The GRE Analytical Writing section is less about creativity and more about structure, logic, and support. With practice, anyone can improve. Always focus on:

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  Planning before you write
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  Staying organized
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  Using strong examples
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  Practising with real prompts

Frequently Asked Questions