The GRE Analytical Writing section consists of two essay tasks – the Issue Task and the Argument Task. Both essays are scored on a 0-6 point scale in 1/2 point increments by two trained raters. The scores from the two raters are then averaged to arrive at the final score for each task. Understanding how essays are scored is key to maximizing your performance on the GRE Analytical Writing section.
Scoring Criteria:
Essays are evaluated based on three broad measures – Content, Analysis, and Writing. Within each measure, raters consider more specific elements:
Content (0-2 points):
Relevant, significant, and impactful topic development in addressing the specific tasks
Substantiation of position with examples, facts, or reasons
Acknowledgement and consideration of other perspectives
Analysis (0-2 points):
Critical evaluation of the key elements of the issue or argument
Logical organization and cohesion of ideas
Clarity and depth in explaining reasoning
Adept use of relevant examples or data to support analysis
Writing (0-2 points):
Facility with grammar, usage, and mechanics
Sophistication of vocabulary
Sentence structure variety
Readability and fluidity of expression
A score of 5-6 is considered excellent, showing a command of writing skills. A 3-4 score is adequate to strong. A 1-2 reflects serious writing deficiencies. A 0 score is essentially a blank or non-response.
Rater Guidelines:
The ETS provides detailed scoring guidelines and rubrics to promote consistency among raters. Here are some key aspects raters consider:
Thesis/Focus: A clear, compelling thesis statement that answers the task. The essay should stay focused.
Organization: A logical flow of ideas with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Transitions should link paragraphs.
Development: In-depth discussion with ample examples/details to fully illustrate points. Personal experiences alone are insufficient.
Critical Thinking: Demonstration of higher-order thinking through analysis, synthesis, and evaluation rather than just describing or summarizing.
Sophistication: Nuanced consideration of complexities and counterarguments rather than simplistic assertions.
Language: Effective vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and a formal style free of errors.
Responsiveness: Addressing all facets of the task rather than disregarding or glossing over parts of the prompt.
Raters also consider the overall impression and effectiveness of the response. Strong performances show insight, skillful use of reasoning and evidence, and persuasive discourse. Weaker essays have superficial treatment, logical inconsistencies, unsupported assertions, or focus problems.
Strategies for Maximizing your Score:
To earn the highest GRE essay scores:
Read the prompt carefully and form a clear, compelling thesis that directly addresses the specific issues or problem stated.
Think critically about multiple perspectives on the issue or draw logical inferences from the argument’s premises.
Organize your response systematically with smooth transitions between well-developed body paragraphs.
Substantiate all analytic claims and interpretations with specific, vivid examples and details from your own experience, general knowledge or readings.
Acknowledge reasonable alternative views and counterarguments rather than presenting one-sided opinions.
Express complex thinking at a sophisticated level using nuanced language and qualifiers (“perhaps”, “may”, “certainly”, “seemingly”).
Maintain formal style and varied sentence structures free of mechanical errors that impede readability.
Budget time to plan, write, and review your response thoroughly before the time expires.
Practice writing essays under timed conditions to build stamina for the actual exam day.
Following these guidelines to demonstrate disciplined critical thinking, substantive development and fluent writing mastery can lead to excelling at the GRE essay tasks and scoring at the highest levels that will impress admissions readers. With diligent practice and feedback, it is very possible to earn a 5-6 on each essay and feel fully prepared for collegiate analytical writing assessments.