GRE Analytical Writing
Everything You Need to Know About the GRE Analytical Writing Measure (Updated for September 2023)
The GRE General Test is a critical step for many aspiring graduate students. A vital component of this exam is the Analytical Writing measure, which assesses your ability to think critically and express complex ideas effectively. This section has undergone significant changes starting September 22, 2023. This post will explore the updates, what they mean for test-takers, and how to best prepare for success.
What is the Analytical Writing Measure?
The Analytical Writing measure of the GRE General Test evaluates your critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It doesn’t test specific content knowledge but focuses on how well you can articulate and support complex ideas, construct arguments, and sustain a coherent discussion.
Changes to the Analytical Writing Measure (Effective September 22, 2023)
Before September 22, 2023, the Analytical Writing measure included two separate tasks:
- Analyze an Issue Task: You were required to evaluate an issue, consider its complexities, and develop an argument with reasons and examples to support your views.
- Analyze an Argument Task: You had to evaluate someone else’s argument based on specific instructions, focusing on its logical soundness rather than agreeing or disagreeing.
However, as of September 22, 2023, the GRE General Test has streamlined this section by removing the “Analyze an Argument” task. Now, the Analytical Writing measure consists of just one 30-minute task:
- Analyze an Issue Task: This task presents an opinion on an issue and instructions on responding. You need to evaluate the problem, consider its complexities, and develop a well-reasoned argument supported by relevant examples.
Preparing for the Analytical Writing Measure
Preparation is critical to performing well in the Analytical Writing measure. Here are some steps to help you prepare effectively:
- Review the Scoring Guides: Understanding how your essay will be scored can give insight into what the raters seek.
- Study Sample Topics and Essays: Familiarize yourself with the topics you may encounter and examine scored sample essays to see what distinguishes high-scoring responses.
- Practice Writing Essays: Regular practice will help you develop your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively within 30 minutes.
Test-Taking Strategies
To maximize your score in the Analytical Writing measure, consider these strategies:
- Plan Your Time Wisely: Allocate time for planning, writing, and reviewing your essay. This will help you produce a well-organized and polished response.
- Focus on Clarity and Coherence: Your argument should be easy to follow and supported by logical reasoning and relevant examples.
- Review for Errors: Save a few minutes at the end to review your essay for any apparent errors. While minor mistakes won’t drastically impact your score, frequent errors can lower your effectiveness.
Conclusion
The Analytical Writing measure is a critical component of the GRE General Test, designed to assess your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas effectively. With the recent changes, preparing thoroughly is more important than ever. Understanding the new format, practicing regularly, and applying effective test-taking strategies can enhance your performance and achieve your desired score.
Call to Action
Ready to tackle the GRE Analytical Writing measure? Start your preparation today by reviewing the Issue Topic Pool (PDF) and practicing with sample essays. Good luck on your GRE journey!
