The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT exam requires test takers to write a single essay under tight time constraints. With only 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your response, it’s crucial to make the most effective use of your limited time. Here are some key GMAT essay writing tips to help you craft a high-scoring response:
Plan thoroughly before starting to write. Take 5-10 minutes at the beginning to brainstorm and map out your essay structure. Read the essay prompt carefully to identify the specific issue or argument being addressed. Then jot down your main points and how you will organize them. Group related ideas together and order them logically from introduction to conclusion. Having a pre-written plan will save you time during the writing portion and ensure your argument flows smoothly.
Stick strongly to the prompt. The essay graders want to see that you understand the specific question or argument being posed. Do not stray into unrelated topics or issues not mentioned in the prompt. Address the core question or argument directly and use your entire response to analyze and discuss only the ideas presented. Refrain from simply restating the prompt – go beyond this into real analysis and argumentation.
Take a clear position and justify it thoroughly. The graders are looking for opinions and viewpoints that are explicitly stated and then substantiated through well-reasoned arguments and evidence. Do not sit on the fence. Pick a side on the given issue or argument and defend it convincingly through multiple paragraphs and points. Support all of your claims and conclusions by tying them directly back to facts presented in the prompt. Abstract or vague claims without justification will not score highly.
Organize coherently with an introduction, body, and conclusion paragraph. The introduction should orient the reader by summarizing the main argument or issue then stating your clear position or thesis. The 2-3 body paragraphs each present a main point or sub-argument supporting your thesis with clear justification. Tie each point back to your overall position. The conclusion paragraph summarizes the key supporting points and restates your thesis to complete the persuasive argument. Flow between paragraphs using clear connecting language and transitional sentences.
Use precise critical thinking vocabulary. Graders appreciate clear, analytical thinking demonstrated through apt word choice. Words like “moreover”, “thus”, “whereas”, “therefore” help to logically build arguments. Terms like “evident”, “notwithstanding”, “contradict” show nuanced analysis of perspectives. Choose your words carefully to precisely convey your critical evaluation and reasoning. At the same time, avoid unfamiliar jargon that does not enhance meaning. Simplicity combined with precise language impressions the graders favorably.
Cite specific examples from the prompt. Directly quoting or paraphrasing evidence presented strengthens your analysis immensely. Weaving in relevant facts, statistics or perspectives referenced in the argument models thoughtful engagement with the source material. This shows high comprehension of the complex ideas under discussion. Do so judiciously and always with proper citation. Discuss how examples connect directly to your thesis for maximum impact.
Revise and edit thoroughly. Despite time constraints, devote the remaining minutes to review your essay with a critical eye. Evaluate sentence structure, grammar, organization, and flow. Tighten up wording, correct errors, and restructure sections as needed for clarity and coherence. Reading it back aloud will reveal weaknesses to address. Leave yourself just 1-2 minutes at the end to proofread again. Precision and polish creates the best final impression.
Practice is key to success on the GMAT AWA. Timed practice essays on different prompts teach you to think critically on your feet under pressure. Review essays written by others and graders’ feedback to continuously improve your technique in areas like argument building, structure and language. Mock exams simulated test conditions and allow you to refine your skills. With diligent practice adhering to these proven tips, you’ll be well prepared to compose influential, highly scored responses on test day. Just be sure to pace yourself efficiently as time permitted while maintaining precision across your entire response.
Keep the essay reading audience – your graders – top of mind as you plan, write and review. They are looking for organized, analytical thinking cogently expressed. Work within the strict time constraints to thoroughly address the prompt through a clearly stated, logically structured argument supported entirely by facts presented and tied back to your overall position. Revise with an eye for eloquent yet concise expression of high-level critical thought. Following these tested GMAT essay writing tactics will maximize your score on the AWA section. With practice implementing each piece of advice step-by-step under timed conditions, you’ll be ready to analyze, persuade and impress the readers.