The Concept of Analytical Writing in the GRE: Understanding and Mastering the Skills
The Analytical Writing section of the GRE General Test is often seen as a challenge for many test-takers. It requires not only a solid grasp of the English language but also critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities. Here’s a deeper look into the AW Concept, and how it tests your analytical writing skills on the GRE.
What Is Analytical Writing?
Analytical Writing involves assessing a given topic or argument, analyzing it logically, and presenting your evaluation clearly and coherently. The purpose of this section is to evaluate how well you can:
- Understand complex issues.
- Analyze the reasoning behind arguments.
- Communicate your analysis in a clear and structured manner.
- Use evidence and examples to back your assertions.
Key Components of Analytical Writing
The GRE Analytical Writing section includes two distinct tasks, each assessing different aspects of your writing ability:
| Task | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Issue Task | You are given a statement on a broad, general issue and asked to present your perspective. Your response must be well-structured and supported by logical examples and reasoning. |
| Argument Task | You are presented with a short argument and asked to evaluate its reasoning. Rather than agreeing or disagreeing with the conclusion, you analyze the logic and the assumptions underlying the argument. |
Skills Assessed in Analytical Writing
The AW section tests various skills, which are crucial for graduate studies:
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Critical Thinking | You need to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the argument or issue you are tasked to address. |
| Logical Organization | Your writing should be organized logically, with clear paragraphing and a coherent flow of ideas. |
| Clarity of Expression | It is important that you express your ideas clearly, avoiding convoluted or overly complex sentences. |
| Use of Examples | You must support your assertions with well-chosen, relevant examples that reinforce your argument. |
| Language Proficiency | Proper grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary are necessary for clear and effective communication. |
Breaking Down the Tasks
- Issue Task:
- You are given a broad statement on a social, political, or cultural topic.
- Your job is to respond by presenting your viewpoint and supporting it with reasoning and examples.
- Example prompt: “To succeed in life, one must take risks.”
- Argument Task:
- Here, you are given an argument that contains flawed reasoning, and your task is to evaluate the logic behind the argument, not to agree or disagree with the conclusion.
- You should critique the argument and explain why it may or may not be logically sound.
- Example prompt: “The following argument assumes that a company with the most innovative product will always succeed.”
Tips for Mastering Analytical Writing
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Understand the Task | Carefully read the prompt and ensure you know what is being asked before you start writing. |
| Develop a Strong Thesis | Your introduction should clearly state your main point or argument. |
| Outline Your Ideas | Plan your essay structure before you begin writing to ensure coherence and clarity. |
| Use Clear Examples | Avoid vague assertions—provide specific examples that support your argument. |
| Review and Edit | After writing, leave a few minutes to review and correct any errors in grammar or logic. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to address the prompt directly: Always ensure your response is focused on the task at hand.
- Weak structure and organization: Unorganized writing can confuse the reader and lower your score.
- Lack of evidence: Always support your points with concrete examples or logical reasoning.
- Overcomplicating language: It’s better to be clear and concise than to use overly complex vocabulary and sentences.
- Neglecting time management: The GRE Analytical Writing section is time-bound, so practice pacing yourself.
Conclusion
Mastering the Analytical Writing section of the GRE requires more than just writing skills; it demands a thorough understanding of how to think critically, structure an argument, and express yourself clearly. By practicing regularly and applying the strategies outlined above, you can improve your chances of scoring well in this section.
Start preparing early, and don’t underestimate the importance of this section—it can make a significant difference in your overall GRE score.