The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT exam contains two separately timed essays that are designed to evaluate analytical writing skills. The two essay types are the Analyze an Issue essay and the Analyze an Argument essay. Both essays require test takers to effectively plan, structure, and communicate ideas clearly and coherently. The essays are evaluated based on critical thinking, writing skill, and ability to effectively address the specific task or prompt.
The Analyze an Issue essay presents test takers with a topic statement and asks them to discuss the issue, consider various perspectives on the issue, and support/explain your perspective on the issue. There is no given perspective or stance provided – test takers must thoughtfully consider multiple views and then develop their own position on the issue. The response should be well-reasoned and demonstrate strong critical thinking skills. Specifically, the Analyze an Issue essay is evaluated based on the test taker’s ability to:
Compose an effective response that is focused, organized, and well-developed. It should have an introductory paragraph, multiple body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.
Clearly state your own perspective on the issue while discussing alternative perspectives. You need to demonstrate you understand there are various sides to the issue.
Support your perspective using logical reasoning and compelling examples or facts. Simply stating an opinion is not enough – you must back it up with analysis and evidence.
Demonstrate strong critical thinking through the consideration of nuances and complexities within the issue. Your perspective should show an understanding of shades of gray rather than a simplistic black-and-white view.
Effectively employ grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and writing mechanics appropriate for graduate level writing.
The Analyze an Argument essay presents test takers with a short argument and asks them to discuss the argument’s maReasons, and assumptions. The test taker must then consider the argument’s overall effectiveness by evaluating the line of reasoning and structural components that led to the conclusion. There is no need to provide an overall opinion on the argument – the focus is strictly on dissecting and analyzing the argument presented. The Analyze an Argument essay is evaluated based on the test taker’s ability to:
Accurately summarize the argument’s key conclusion and main reasons/pieces of evidence put forth to support that conclusion. You need to show you understood the overall argument and purpose.
Identify and explain the assumptions that underlie the argument. Assumptions are unstated beliefs/ideas that must be true in order for the argument to be valid. Effective analysis requires recognizing these assumptions.
Consider the argument’s overall effectiveness by thoughtfully evaluating the line of reasoning and structural links between reasons and conclusion. Does the evidence and reasoning truly support the conclusion, or are flaws present? Your analysis should discuss both strengths and weaknesses.
Remain objective, impartial, and logically sound throughout the analysis. Personal opinions or beliefs have no place in the response – you must adhere strictly to evaluating the argument based on the given information.
Demonstrate strong critical thinking by sifting through details to recognize nuances and uncover underlying implications or weaknesses in the reasoning. A surface-level analysis will be insufficient.
Employ effective grammar, vocabulary, sentence variety, and writing mechanics appropriate for executive-level analytical writing. Flaws in these areas will detract from the overall quality of analysis presented.
In both essay types, test takers have 30 minutes to plan and compose a well-structured response ranging between 300-600 words. Proper time allocation is critical, as the the planning and organization stage should take approximately 5-7 minutes before beginning to write. Following a precise structure and coherently addressing all components of the specific task are essential. While there is no single correct way to write the essays, effective practices involve outlining perspectives or components of analysis before launching into a response. Mastering the ability to quickly comprehend complex issues, break down arguments, and thoughtfully convey analysis through clear, persuasive writing is key to success on these AWA tasks. Regular practice of both essay types under timed conditions is recommended for test preparation.
The GMAT AWA assesses analytical writing and critical thinking skills through two separate essay tasks – the Analyze an Issue prompt which requires presenting a well-reasoned position on a topic, and the Analyze an Argument prompt which focuses solely on dissecting and evaluating a given argument. Being well-versed in both essay types involves comprehending their distinct components of evaluation, planning and organizing high-quality responses under pressure, and employing strong writing mechanics to coherently convey analytical thinking. With thorough understanding and consistent practice of these skills, test takers can feel prepared to succeed on this scored section of the GMAT exam.