How To Crack GMAT AWA | GMAT Analytical Writing Asessment Tips

Are you preparing for GMAT? You know that GMAT has one section called Analytical Writing Assessment, aka ‘the Essay’. You’ve probably written a ton of essays since your school days, but this one takes it up a notch. It isn’t about expressing your ideas, but about understanding a given argument, analyzing it, forming an opinion and backing it with facts and/or examples. Do you think you can do all that? In case you’re wondering how you should go about the AWA section, this article is for you. Keep reading!

GMAT AWA - What is being tested?

The GMAT AWA section tests your analytical ability, critical thinking and communication skills. You will be given a statement, and you have to analyse it. Your analysis should include understanding the logical reasoning behind the statement.You have to present your analysis in the form of an essay and identify the flaws in logic. Also, you have to present a counter argument. To sum it up, you will be tested on:

1. English Language Proficiency: Your command over the English language, and your ability to write in English whilst following all rules of grammar and syntax.
2. Analytical ability: Your ability to identify the given logical reasoning, analyse it so as to recognize the problems with the logic and develop a counter argument.
3. Presentation:Your ability to present your counter argument in an organised manner. A structured essay shows clarity of thought, and makes it easier for the reader to understand your ideas.

Also read - How To Prepare For The GMAT - Tips From A GMAT 730 Scorer

GMAT AWA - Time limit for this section

You have 30 minutes in total. During this time, you have to read, understand and analyse the given problem statement. Then, formulating a structured argument, you have to communicate the same in the form of a written essay. Try not to spend more than 5 minutes reading and formulating. You will need at least 25 minutes to write the essay. It is a good idea to keep some time in the end so that you can proofread your assignment and rectify any errors.

GMAT AWA - Structure of the Essay

Now, there are many different structures which you can use to write an essay. For the basics, you’re essay will be divided into three parts, namely:

1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Conclusion

The three parts are pretty self-explanatory, so let’s dig deeper into what they actually mean.

Introduction

A good way to start your essay is to reiterate the given problem statement. It shows that you have understood the statement enough to explain it in your own words. Be very smart in doing this, as this is your opportunity to also show off some of your analysis, point out flaws, and hint at your argument. Of course, there is no hard-and-fast rule to do this, but if you can it shows exceptional skills.

Now, whatever has been conveyed in the previous paragraph, that’s all you need to convey in the introduction. Ideally, your introduction shouldn’t exceed 1 paragraph. So, to sum it up,  your introduction needs to include:

1. Reiterating the given problem statement
2. Your analysis in brief (a single statement should suffice. Your essay will further support this analysis.)
3. Your argument (again, in brief)

Body

This is the most important part of your GMAT AWA essay, where you will spend most of your time. This is where you will be justifying everything you might’ve included in your introduction. This is the part where you will make your analysis, give examples, make your argument, all the while following rules of grammar and use good vocabulary.

The body of your essay should include:

1. A clear analysis of the given problem statement, in depth. 
2. Your opinion on whether or not you agree with the given problem statement.
3. Your argument supporting the given statement, or presenting a counter argument.
4. Supporting examples to strengthen your argument.

Your body can have 3-4 paragraphs. However, know when to break paragraphs. Don’t break them unless you have a logical reason. Each paragraph should convey a concrete idea. Transitions between paragraphs should be smooth, and not abrupt.

Conclusion

Your entire argument needs to be summed up here. While some arguments might be difficult to conclude, and need to be open-ended, try to avoid this scenario as it can show uncertainty.  Your conclusion shouldn’t exceed one paragraph. 

GMAT AWA - Practice Tips

1. Read as much as you can. Most newspapers, published articles, and short essays are structured. When you read these pieces, keep an eye out on the way they have begun their piece, structured their arguments, and the way they conclude.
2. Topics for these essays are never one-sided. Make it a point to understand both sides of an argument so that your essay doesn’t seem too one-sided. 
3. Go through the previous essay topics. Try to find those which have sample essays or essays written by students who scored well. Write your own essays in a timed condition, and then compare your essay with those.

That’s all for today. Did we miss anything? Have you taken GMAT, or are you preparing for the same? What are your strategies to crack Analytical Writing? Let us know in the comments.

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