The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that is used as part of the admissions process for many graduate programs. One section of the GRE requires test takers to write an essay under timed conditions. There are two main types of essay prompts you may encounter on the GRE – analyze an issue and analyze an argument. Let’s take a deeper look at each essay type.
Analyze an Issue Prompt
This is the more common essay type you will see on the GRE. With an analyze an issue prompt, the test will present you with a topic or issue and ask you to consider both sides of the issue. You are then expected to develop your own perspective on the issue and support your viewpoint with logical reasoning and examples.
Some key things to keep in mind for an analyze an issue essay:
Address both sides of the issue in a balanced manner. Discuss the pros and cons of each perspective to demonstrate your consideration of multiple angles.
Take a clear stance on the issue by stating which side you agree with more and why. Expressing an unambiguous position is important.
Support your viewpoint with clear reasoning and solid examples. Don’t just state your opinion – back it up with logical explanations and specific illustrations when possible.
Use a logical structure with an intro paragraph, body paragraphs addressing each side, and a conclusion paragraph restating your position. This provides organizational flow.
Maintain formal and persuasive tone. While you can have a position, avoid emotional language and focus on supporting your view rationally.
Watch timing and aim to spend 5 minutes planning and 25 minutes writing for a well-developed response. Practice strategies for staying focused in timed conditions.
Some sample analyze an issue prompts could ask you to consider topics like whether countries should provide universal basic income, if social media has had a positive or negative societal impact, or whether access to post-secondary education should be free for all qualified students. Regardless of the specific issue, the testing format and expectations remain the same.
Analyze an Argument Prompt
The second essay type is analyze an argument. With this prompt type, the test will provide you with a short paragraph presenting an argument but may not necessarily take a position on the issue. Your task is then to dissect and evaluate the reasoning and evidence used in the given argument.
Key things to focus on for an effective analyze an argument response include:
Identifying the main conclusion/claim being made in the argument.
Breaking down the logic chain of reasoning used to support the claim. This involves looking at the premises and conclusions drawn.
Assessing the quality of evidence and data used as backup for the premises. Are sources reliable? Are conclusions logically drawn?
Considering alternative viewpoints or counterarguments that were not addressed. No argument is perfect so look for gaps.
Providing an overall evaluation of the argument’s effectiveness based on its reasoning, evidence, and handling of other possibilities.
Using factual examples when possible to illustrate analysis, but the main work is logical not example-based.
Maintaining an objective critical analytic tone rather than stating an opinion on the issue.
Some sample prompts may ask you to dissect arguments regarding issues like organic food has clear health benefits over conventional food, driverless vehicles will revolutionize transportation, or standardized tests are the best tool for university admissions decisions.
Practical Tips for Any GRE Essay Response
Regardless of the specific prompt, some overall best practices apply when crafting your GRE essays:
Use a clear introduction-body-conclusion structure for cohesion and flow.
Stick to the prompt and address the specific instructions/tasks given.
Develop your position or analysis with in-depth logical reasoning, not just statements.
Provide relevant, compelling examples when applicable to strengthen arguments.
Use a formal, objective academic writing style without slang or opinions stated as fact.
Consider multiple perspectives on the issue rather than focusing on just one side.
Read over the question multiple times to fully understand what is being asked of you.
Practice strategies like outlining to help manage timing under pressure.
Leave sufficient time at the end to proofread for errors in spelling, grammar, logical flow, etc.
Familiarizing yourself with these essay types and practicing sample prompts is crucial for performing well on test day. The key is learning to think critically and communicate your analysis clearly within a limited time frame. With focused preparation, you can feel confident tackling any style of prompt that appears on the GRE analytical writing section.
The two primary essay formats on the GRE analytical writing assessment are to either analyze an issue by addressing multiple perspectives on a topic, or to analyze the reasoning and evidence within a presented argument. Understanding the distinct evaluation criteria for each type will allow you to appropriately tailor your written response. Consistent practice analyzing prompts under timed conditions and receiving feedback is also important for developing the strategic writing skills needed to succeed on this crucial graduate admissions requirement. Approaching your GRE preparation strategically will help you feel prepared to clearly articulate your critical thinking on test day.
Andrew Stroud