Writing a successful GMAT analytical writing assessment (AWA) essay takes practice and skill. The AWA section consists of one 30-minute essay that requires you to think critically about an issue and present a compelling argument. While there is no single correct way to write an essay, following proven strategies and techniques can help boost your score. Here are some key GMAT essay writing tips to keep in mind:
Plan Before You Write: Take a few minutes at the start to carefully read and analyze the issue prompt. Identify the key components of the issue and determine the perspective you will take. Jot down a brief outline of the main points you want to make in support of your thesis. Proper planning at the outset will help you stay organized and write a cohesive, well-structured essay.
Focus on the Question: It’s easy to get carried away discussing tangential topics, so continually re-focus your essay on directly answering the question. Restate the issue clearly at the beginning. Keep circling back to how each point relates to whether you agree or disagree with the given perspective. Address alternative views only insofar as they are relevant to your overall argument.
Develop a Clear Thesis: Having a concrete thesis statement is crucial. It articulates in one sentence the stance you will take on the issue and previews the main reasons for your position. Place the thesis near the start of your introductory paragraph in a clear, definitive statement. For example: “While technology provides opportunities, its overuse negatively impacts relationships and psychological well-being.”
Use Specific Examples: A skilled GMAT essay will incorporate well-chosen, detailed examples to support key assertions. Provide evidence either through referencing credible outside sources or drawing from common experiences and observations. Readers want to understand your perspective through concrete illustrations, not vague generalizations.
Organize Logically: Follow an outline that flows sensibly from intro to body to conclusion. In the body, devote a full paragraph to each supporting point. The first sentence should relate back to your thesis while subsequent sentences delve deeper into explaining and exemplifying the idea. Transition smoothly between paragraphs so your argument is cohesive and easy for readers to follow.
Discuss Counterarguments: Showing you understand differing viewpoints demonstrates critical thinking abilities. Briefly acknowledge reasonable alternative positions in your intro or body paragraphs then directly counter them. For example: “It could be argued that xyz, but upon closer examination…” tackle objections rather than glossing over weaknesses in your perspective.
Use Precise Language: Write clearly and concisely using an academic tone. Avoid slang, clichés or personal anecdotes. Precisely define any specialized terms for a broad audience. Each sentence should advance your thesis through careful word choice and flow logically from the previous statement. Reread your essay critically for redundant or wordy passages that detract from impact.
Conclusion Should Summarize: Restate your thesis and main points succinctly without introducing new ideas in the conclusion paragraph. Sum up how the evidence and analysis supports your perspective on the issue. Consider also emphasizing implications, calling readers to action if relevant, or setting up possible areas for further discussion. Bring closure by reiterating why your viewpoint matters on this topic.
Proofread Thoroughly: Leave time at the end to carefully proofread your work. Check for errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling and mathematical calculations. Reread critically to ensure logical flow, sufficient evidence for claims, and unified argumentation around your thesis. Minor mistakes can damage an otherwise solid analysis, so take the time for a final review. Make any needed corrections directly on the prompt page before submitting.
Following proven techniques like outlining, selecting precise examples, acknowledging counterarguments, and thoroughly proofreading can help produce a successful GMAT essay. With practice applying these tips, your analytical writing score will improve. Remember the AWA measures critical reasoning ability more than specific content knowledge. Stay focused on directly answering the issue presented and crafting a well-organized, logically sound argument.