The analytical writing section of the GRE exam consists of two essays that you must write in a limited time frame. Scoring high on these essays is crucial, as they account for around half your total analytical writing score. To score a 5/6, here are some key strategies to keep in mind as you plan and write your GRE essays.
Start with Strong Brainstorming and Planning
You only have 30 minutes per essay, so taking 5-10 minutes to brainstorm and plan before you start writing is important. Look at the provided topic or issue and think of different perspectives you could take. Jot down a few potential thesis statements that directly address the issue. Also consider how you might structure your essay – which arguments and examples could fall under which paragraphs. Thorough planning at the start will help you efficiently organize your thoughts and write cohesively within the time limit.
Craft a Clear, Strong Thesis Statement
Your thesis should be a one-sentence, unambiguous statement that directly responds to the task. It should convey the essential argument or perspective you will support and develop throughout the essay. Avoid vague or ambiguous theses like “There are different views on this issue.” A clear thesis helps you stay focused on one cohesive perspective to fully develop your position. The thesis is crucial, so make sure it is compelling yet arguable.
Structure Your Essay Coherently
Clearly structured, coherent paragraphs are important for scoring well. Typically, a successful GRE essay will have an introductory paragraph with your thesis, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence related to proving or supporting your thesis. Use logical transitions between ideas and paragraphs. Check that each paragraph and argument clearly flows from and builds upon the ones preceding it. A well-organized structure will keep the reader focused on following your argument.
Use Specific, Relevant Examples
Don’t just state your opinion or make broad generalizations. Support your thesis and stance with well-chosen, detailed examples. Ideal examples will be specific enough that readers understand your point, but not so detailed that they detract from your core argument. Where possible, use examples from your own experiences, education, work etc. Avoid simply restating abstract concepts or loosely connected examples. Concretely relevant examples are important for scoring high on “strength of evidence.”
Address Alternative Perspectives and Counterarguments
To demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the issue’s complexity, address counterarguments and perspectives that differ from your own position. Objectively consider potential weaknesses in your own argument and how someone with an opposing view might try to refute it. Directly acknowledge reasonable alternative positions and thoughtfully respond to them in a way that supports your overall thesis rather than dismissing opposing views. Addressing complexity of thought shows a high-level analytical ability.
Use Precise, Sophisticated Language
Vocabulary, word choice, grammar and sentence structure matter when it comes to GRE analytical writing scores. Avoid conversational language and instead choose the most precise terms that clearly convey your intended meaning. Write in an elevated academic style using varied, complex sentences. Prioritize clarity over showing off your vocabulary – don’t sacrifice readability to sound sophisticated. Proofread for any grammar, spelling or phrasing issues that could potentially confuse or distract the reader from your main points and thesis.
Conclude Strongly and Do Not Simply Restate Your Introduction
The conclusion should not merely repeat your introduction or thesis. It should aim to bring a fresh sense of closure and completion to your argument, perhaps by considering the implications or importance of your position. You may wish to reiterate your thesis in a new way and aim to leave the reader with a strong final impression of your perspective on the issue. Bringing things full circle in an impactful conclusion will leave scorers with a positive overall assessment of your essay.
Budget Your Time Properly
With only 30 minutes per essay, having a good time management strategy is key. Try spending 8-10 minutes planning, 15-17 minutes writing, and 3-5 minutes proofreading. Watch the clock and leave enough time for a final check so you don’t have to hurriedly proofread. Sticking to a plan will help keep you organized and ensure you fully develop your points without rushing or skipping over any details towards the end. Proper time allocation is another factor graders may consider.
Revise Prior to Submitting
Take a few minutes at the end to reread critically and revise if needed. This is your chance to catch any issues with flow, clarity or development before submitting. A few small tweaks or adjustments could potentially boost your final score. When you’ve run out of time, quickly proofread for any formatting issues to ensure your essay displays properly and all content is visible to the graders. With strong critical revision skills, you can round out an otherwise solid essay draft.
Keep these GRE essay strategies in mind as you plan and write. Practicing with sample prompts under timed conditions is also important. Following a proven framework focused on a clear thesis, relevant examples, addressing complexity, and strong writing will set you up for success in crafting high-scoring analytical essays on test day. With regular practice applying these techniques, you’ll be well prepared to demonstrate your analytical writing abilities to their fullest potential.
Andrew Stroud