How to crack the GRE essay test? 

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) constitutes a significant stepping stone in a student’s life. It is what lies between you and your dream graduate or business school. Once you clear it, there is no stopping you from progressing in your career. The multiple-choice examination comprises several sections that test a variety of your skillset. However, it is a common opinion that many students find it most difficult to crack the GRE essay test.

Be aware that the GRE writing section is unlike any other English writing test. It does not simply test your knowledge of the language. It is famously called the GRE Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) that tests the following,

• Communicate complex ideas in simple, succinct, and efficient words. 
• Talk about your opinions regarding a particular subject.
• Think critically and communicate the same in a well-structured manner.

Taking a closer look at GRE

Let’s begin with the basics – how exactly does GRE work? What does it stand for? GRE is the brainchild of three global leaders in the education board sector. It was a joint initiative by the American Council on Education, the College Entrance Examination Board, and the Carnegie Foundation. The test itself dates back to 1947.

The objective of the examination is to gauge a student’s ability for academic work during graduation. The GRE writing score is not the only aspect considered by graduate or business school panelists. The GRE writing score and how well you did in your previous academic year matter. If you can provide other supporting documents, even better! 

Don’t worry about preparing for the GRE – refer to our blog on how to prepare for GRE to be well prepared. Let us now find out how to prepare well for GRE analytical writing scoring. 

What does GRE’s analytical writing section involve?

• Introduction to GRE Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

GRE analytical writing assessment sounds like four big and threatening words. We simply refer to it as a GRE issue essay. The analytical writing section is one of the first sections you will be required to attempt in the examination. You will be provided two GRE essay prompts. 

• Key highlights about the two GRE essay prompts 

One of the first GRE essay prompts is the analytical writing section. If you are wondering what an analytical writing assessment is, you must not worry! The test will ask you to interpret and analyze the issue presented. You will go through a scenario where you have to gauge a general interest issue. After considering the issue’s complexities, you will need to provide your thoughts on it reasonably and straightforwardly.

One of the second GRE essay prompts is similar to the first one. However, you will be asked to analyze an argument with this one. This surely can be tricker in comparison to the first one. You will be required to view the argument logically and present your opinions on the same. 

What are the parameters that the AWA people set?

It is interesting that different examiners will check your responses to the two GRE essay prompts. They have a predefined set of parameters that act like checklists while going through your responses to GRE essay prompts. Another interesting thing to note is that while the two different AWA people will evaluate your responses, the overall writing score is reported once. 

Here are some of the parameters your writing score will depend upon,

• Critical thinking
• Effective communications 
• Smooth flow of content
• Sense of vocabulary 
• Ability to use examples 
• Organized thinking. 

Preparing for GRE’s analytical writing section

The creators of the GRE have made an official statement suggesting that preparation is key to succeeding in the exams. Even the most experienced writers need to put in a considerable amount of effort practicing with different GRE pools of issue topics.  

Here are some tips to get a good writing score,

Tip #1 

Spend enough time to grasp what skills will be measured through the GRE writing test. The writing score guides, GRE issue essays, rater commentary, and more are available to read. 

Tip #2 

Ensure you go through a wide range of GRE issue essay topics. The test can include any kind of subject – all the way from physics and philosophy to fine arts. You don’t need knowledge of these subjects, just the ability to communicate effectively. 

Tip #3 

Practice responding to different issues. We have already established that the GRE writing test is not an ordinary essay writing competition. It will require you to indulge in complex thinking. Practice is what will make you perfect at it. 

Tip #4 

You should start budgeting your time. One thing that you need to understand is that each GRE writing test will have a time limit. Even if you become an absolute expert at responding to GRE essay prompts, you will still have limited time to respond. So practice with a timer.

Tip #5 

While accounting for the time, keep a habit of leaving a few extra minutes in the end to double-check your responses. This is so that you can make your responses to GRE essay prompts perfect. Check for grammatical errors, errors in understanding the questions, and anything else you can think of!

Key takeaways

• The GRE writing test is unlike any other ordinary essay competition. 
• Writing test is divided into two GRE essay prompts that differ. One is where you analyze an issue, while the other is where you interpret an argument.
• The top parameters to evaluate responses to GRE essay prompts include critical thinking, effective communications, smooth flow of content, sense of vocabulary, organized thinking, and the ability to use examples.

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FAQ’s 

1. What does GRE’s writing section constitute? 

GRE’s writing section consists of two tests – one is where you will be required to analyze an issue. While the other is where you will be required to interpret an argument. 

2. Will I be evaluated separately for both the GRE essay prompts?

You will not be evaluated separately for both the GRE essay prompts. You will be provided one set of marks for both your responses.

3. What’s the time limit for both the GRE essay prompts?

The time limit for both the GRE essay prompts is 30 minutes each. We recommend you practice using a timer well before heading to the test center.