The Princeton Review GRE Issue essay section requires test takers to analyze a presented issue and present their perspective on the matter in a succinct essay response. In this article, we will explore the format and expectations of the GRE Issue essay, common strategies for success, and sample responses to practice with.
Issue Section Format
The Issue essay section contains one assigned task that asks test takers to respond to a presented issue prompt. Issue prompts aim to get you thinking about complex topics like education policy, environmental regulations, or technological advances. Prompts will clearly outline two perspectives on the issue and require you to present your own perspective while also considering the presented views.
You will have 30 minutes to plan and write your response. This includes reviewing the prompt, outlining your response, and drafting and revising your essay. Responses will be scored based on the clarity and coherence of ideas, the development and support of arguments or position, the organization of ideas, and the accuracy, variety, and appropriateness of language usage.
Common Strategies for Success
To succeed on the GRE Issue essay, it helps to follow some tried and true strategies. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Carefully read and analyze the prompt. Underline the key details, perspectives presented, and parameters of the task. Make sure you understand all aspects of the issue before responding.
Plan and outline your structure before writing. Take 5-10 minutes to jot down your main points, counterarguments, and examples you want to use. This keeps your response coherent and on track.
Take a clear stance and directly address the prompt. Don’t skirt the task by discussing peripheral aspects. State your position upfront and back it up with reasoning throughout.
Address both perspectives presented thoughtfully but concisely. Don’t merely restate the prompt. Discuss each view and any possible merits or flaws. But don’t spend too long on views that aren’t your own.
Use specific, well-developed examples and details to support your arguments. Abstract explanations won’t be as persuasive. Find ways to illustrate your stance with concrete examples from your own experience when possible.
Organize your response in a clear, logical flow. Use transitions between paragraphs and maintain cohesion. A standard intro-body-conclusion structure often works well but depends on the prompt nuances.
Proofread carefully for any errors. Check grammar, effective word choice, clarity, and flow. Minor mistakes can hurt an otherwise strong response. Leave time for proofreading.
Practicing and timing sample responses is essential to getting comfortable with the format and timing expectations. Let’s look at two examples of strong responses to practice prompts.
Sample Issue Essay Response #1
Prompt: Some people believe that technological advances will eventually result in a workforce where human workers are no longer necessary. Others argue that technology advances will instead create new types of jobs for humans. Develop your perspective on this issue and explain your reasoning.
“While technology continues to make certain human jobs obsolete, I believe it will also generate new types of employment for people. As machines take over routine physical and cognitive tasks, humans will be freed up to focus their skills and creativity in areas not yet automated.
For example, industries experiencing automation like manufacturing have already pivoted to fulfilling new roles where interpersonal skills add unique value. Factory technicians now maintain and upgrade complex robotics systems. Retraining programs help displaced assembly line workers transition to positions requiring critical thinking, problem solving, and emotional intelligence – abilities machines still cannot replicate.
Furthermore, emerging fields centered around new technologies themselves necessitate human involvement. Roles like artificial intelligence engineers, virtual reality designers, and drone operators did not exist just a few years ago but have grown significantly alongside advancing industries. To continue innovating at a rapid pace, the development and application of technologies will depend on human insight, judgment, and specialized expertise thatcomputers alone cannot provide.
While the specific tasks and jobs of the future may differ from today’s, humans will always be needed to invent, implement, oversee, and work alongside new mechanized systems. Rather than eliminating all work, technology breakthroughs open more opportunities for meaningful employment that leverages core human attributes machines have yet to match. Therefore, I believe technological progress will transform rather than threaten the future of work for humans.”
Sample Issue Essay Response #2
Prompt: Governments should place fewer regulations on businesses and industries in order to bolster economic growth and competitiveness. Others argue that some level of regulation is necessary to protect workers, consumers, and the environment. Develop your perspective on this issue and explain your reasoning.
“While reduced regulations could give businesses short-term economic benefits, I believe a balanced approach that considers all stakeholders is most prudent. Excessive or unguided deregulation risks negatively impacting vulnerable populations and long-term societal well-being.
For example, limiting environmental and safety standards could lower production costs for industries. But polluting the air and water or failing to establish workplace protections inevitably creates more costs elsewhere by impacting public health and economic participation over time. Regulatory frameworks aim to encourage responsible practices that prevent greater economic damages down the road.
Similarly, fully deregulating consumer industries may temporarily boost corporate profits but fail to ensure fair treatment of customers. Rules prohibiting deceptive advertising, predatory lending, and the sale of unsafe products establish reasonable baselines for ethical commerce. Without reasonable safeguards, consumers lose confidence and incentives for unscrupulous behavior increase.
Some existing regulations could become outdated or impose disproportionate burdens requiring review and adjustment. A balanced approach is most prudent – maintaining core protections while eliminating obsolete or ineffective rules through regular assessment and revision based on changing economic conditions. This satisfies the interests of businesses, workers, and society equally to maximize opportunity and well-being for all over the long run.”
Andrew Stroud