Introduction:
The graduate record examinations (GRE) is a standardized test required for admission into most graduate schools in the United States and Canada. The GRE consists of two multiple-choice sections (verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning) and an analytical writing section. In this article, we will explore whether or not test takers type their essay responses on the GRE analytical writing section.
Do You Type the GRE Essay?
The short answer is yes – test takers must type their essay responses on the GRE analytical writing section using the on-screen keyboard and text box provided within the testing software. Handwritten essays are not permitted for this section of the GRE. The test is administered via computer only, so test takers will need to be comfortable composing longer written responses using a keyboard rather than handwriting.
Some key points about typing the GRE essay include:
Typing is now the standard format for the analytical writing section. Prior to September 2005, test takers had the option to handwrite essays or type them, but ETS transitioned to exclusively computer-based typing for consistency and scoring purposes.
Test takers are given one, 30-minute time block to respond to both the Issue essay prompt and Argument essay prompt. They can allocate that total time how they choose between the two essays.
The on-screen keyboard and text box operates similar to a basic word processing program. Test takers can move the cursor, select and delete text, cut and paste, etc. Basic formatting like font style and size are pre-set within the text box.
Essays must be composed entirely within the text box on screen – there is no external word processing program or paper/pen option. What is typed into the text box is what will be scored.
Typing speed and comfort levels with a computer can impact how much an individual is able to write within the time limit versus handwriting. Practice typing sample essays under timed conditions is recommended.
Spellcheck, grammar check, and other editing aids are not available within the testing software. Test takers need to carefully proofread and edit their responses based on what is typed on screen.
No hard copy of typed essays is provided after the test. Responses are immediately submitted to ETS for automated scoring once the time expires.
Those with physical or learning disabilities can request special accommodations like extra time or handwriting essays instead of typing if approved by ETS in advance. But the standard mode is typing for all test takers.
Typing vs. Handwriting Considerations
Whether typing or handwriting is a more natural mode for composition depends on the individual test taker’s experiences and skill level with both. There are advantages and disadvantages to consider with each:
Handwriting Pros:
Faster and more natural for some who learned that way
Less eye movement between paper and keyboard
Can organize ideas faster without typing delays
Less issues with computer/software glitches impacting writing
Handwriting Cons:
Legibility can impact scoring if handwriting is poor
Harder to edit and revise on the page versus deleting and retyping
Space constraints versus ability to continue typing in text box
Slower overall speed for composition versus familiarity with keyboarding
Typing Pros:
Potentially faster composition speed once familiar with keyboard
Easier editing via deleting and retyping text versus scribbling out
Consistency in formatting, readability between typed essays
Matches standard computer-based testing format for GRE
Typing Cons:
Less natural for some accustomed mostly to handwriting
May disrupt flow having to physically type out ideas
Typos and spelling errors cannot as easily be fixed as handwriting
Comfort level with computer/software interface could impact performance
Practice is Key
For most test takers, the best approach is to take some practice GRE analytical writing sections alternating between handwriting sample responses and typing them on a computer in timed conditions. This allows an individual to determine which mode they can compose more coherently and at greater length within the 30-minute time constraint.
Practicing typing outlines, drafts, and full responses beforehand provides valuable experience with the keyboard interface, editing capabilities, and helps identify whether typing speed will impede essay length. Practice also helps pinpoint weak areas to focus on improving for the real test day.
Conclusion
Typing responses using the on-screen keyboard and text box is the standard format required by all test takers on the GRE analytical writing section. It matches the computer-based testing environment. While handwriting may feel more natural to some, typing proficiency is important to develop given you don’t have the option on the actual exam day. Practice alternating between typing and handwriting sample responses can help determine your best compositional mode within the GRE time limits and scoring conditions. Being comfortable with both options provides flexibility in demonstrating your analytical writing abilities.