GRE Analytical Writing
Overview
The GRE Analytical Writing measure consists of a single 30-minute task called "Analyze an Issue." This task assesses your ability to think critically about a topic of general interest and to clearly express your thoughts in writing. Unlike multiple-choice formats, the GRE requires you to compose a complete essay that develops and supports your own position on a given issue.
Task Format
| Time Limit | 30 minutes |
| Task Type | Analyze an Issue |
| Response Format | Typed essay (no word limit, typically 400-600 words) |
| Scoring Scale | 0-6 in half-point increments |
The Analyze an Issue Task
The Analyze an Issue task presents a statement or claim about a topic of general interest. Your task is to:
- Understand the issue presented in the prompt
- Take a clear position on the issue (agree, disagree, or take a qualified stance)
- Develop a compelling argument supporting your position
- Support your argument with relevant examples and reasoning
- Consider alternative perspectives and acknowledge their validity while explaining your position
- Communicate clearly and effectively using appropriate grammar and organization
Sample Issue Prompt
"As people rely more and more on technology to solve problems, the ability of humans to think for themselves will surely deteriorate."
Instructions:
Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how those considerations shape your position.
GRE Analytical Writing Scoring Rubric
The GRE uses a detailed scoring rubric to evaluate Issue essays. Understanding these criteria helps you focus your preparation on the skills that matter most.
Outstanding
Presents an insightful, well-articulated position on the issue with compelling support; demonstrates sophisticated reasoning and effective communication; acknowledges complexity and nuance
Strong
Presents a well-developed position with good supporting examples and reasoning; demonstrates clear thinking and effective organization; may have minor flaws
Adequate
Presents a competent position with adequate supporting examples; demonstrates reasonable thinking and organization; may lack depth or contain some unclear passages
Limited
Presents a position but with limited development or support; reasoning may be unclear or examples may be generic; organization may be weak
Seriously Flawed
Presents a position but with minimal support; reasoning is unclear or flawed; organization is poor; contains significant errors in grammar or expression
Fundamentally Deficient
Fails to present a coherent position; lacks meaningful support; reasoning is severely flawed; contains numerous errors that impede understanding
Key Scoring Criteria Explained
1. Articulation of a Position
A high-scoring essay presents a clear, specific position on the issue. Rather than simply stating agreement or disagreement, you should articulate a nuanced stance that acknowledges the complexity of the issue.
Weak:
"I agree with this statement."
Strong:
"While technology undoubtedly enhances our problem-solving capabilities, the claim that it will cause human thinking to deteriorate oversimplifies the relationship between technology and cognition."
2. Quality of Supporting Examples
High-scoring essays use specific, relevant examples that directly support the thesis. Examples should be drawn from history, current events, personal experience, or academic knowledge.
Weak:
"Technology is used in many fields. For example, computers are used in offices."
Strong:
"Consider the field of medical diagnosis. While AI algorithms can process vast datasets to identify patterns in medical imaging, physicians must still interpret these results, consider patient history, and make clinical judgments."
3. Reasoning and Analysis
Effective essays demonstrate logical reasoning and analytical thinking. You should explain why your examples support your position and how they relate to the central issue.
Weak:
"GPS technology is an example of technology solving problems."
Strong:
"GPS technology illustrates how tools can extend human capability without diminishing cognition. Users must still determine their destination, interpret route options, and make decisions about their journey."
4. Acknowledgment of Complexity
High-scoring essays recognize that most issues have multiple valid perspectives. Rather than presenting an absolutist position, acknowledge legitimate counterarguments and explain why your position remains stronger.
Weak:
"Technology is always good."
Strong:
"Critics rightfully point out that over-reliance on technology can create dependency. However, this concern reflects not an inherent flaw in technology itself but rather how we choose to use it."
5. Organization and Clarity
Essays should follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Ideas should flow logically, and transitions should connect thoughts effectively.
6. Grammar and Expression
While the GRE does not penalize minor grammatical errors, significant errors that impede understanding will lower your score. Aim for clear, professional writing with proper grammar, punctuation, and word choice.
Sample GRE Issue Essay (Score 6)
Prompt:
"As people rely more and more on technology to solve problems, the ability of humans to think for themselves will surely deteriorate."
Sample Response:
While technology has become increasingly central to how we solve problems, the assertion that this reliance will necessarily cause human thinking to deteriorate represents an oversimplification of the complex relationship between tools and cognition. In fact, history and contemporary evidence suggest that technology, when used thoughtfully, can enhance rather than diminish human reasoning.
Consider the evolution of mathematical thinking. The invention of the calculator did not eliminate mathematical reasoning; instead, it freed mathematicians to focus on more complex problems and theoretical frameworks. Rather than spending hours on arithmetic, mathematicians could explore abstract concepts that would have been inaccessible without computational tools. Similarly, the development of the scientific method itself represents a "technology" of thinking that enhanced human reasoning rather than replacing it. The tools we create often extend our cognitive capabilities rather than atrophying them.
However, the statement contains a kernel of truth worth acknowledging. Excessive reliance on technology without understanding underlying principles can indeed limit thinking. A person who uses GPS without ever developing spatial reasoning skills, or who accepts algorithmic recommendations without critical evaluation, may fail to develop important cognitive abilities. The concern is not about technology itself but about how we choose to use it.
The critical distinction lies in whether technology is used as a crutch or as a lever. When technology augments human capability—when we use search engines to access information while maintaining critical evaluation skills, or when we use data analysis tools while developing statistical reasoning—our thinking is enhanced. Conversely, when technology replaces thinking entirely, without any engagement of human judgment, deterioration may occur.
Therefore, the relationship between technology and human thinking is not deterministic. The outcome depends on how we integrate technology into our cognitive practices. Rather than inevitably causing deterioration, technology offers the potential to enhance human thinking, provided we maintain engagement with underlying principles and continue to exercise critical reasoning. Education and intentional use of technology, rather than technology itself, will determine whether human thinking flourishes or declines.
Analysis of This Response:
This essay scores highly because it:
- Presents a nuanced position: Rather than simply agreeing or disagreeing, it acknowledges the complexity of the issue
- Provides specific examples: The calculator and GPS examples are concrete and directly support the thesis
- Demonstrates logical reasoning: Each paragraph builds on previous points and explains the connection to the central argument
- Acknowledges counterarguments: The essay recognizes legitimate concerns about technology dependency while explaining why these concerns don't support the original statement
- Maintains clear organization: Introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences, and conclusion follow a logical structure
- Uses sophisticated language: The writing demonstrates command of academic vocabulary and complex sentence structures
Strategies for High-Scoring GRE Essays
1. Spend Time Planning (3-5 minutes)
Before writing, spend a few minutes understanding the issue and planning your response. Identify your position, brainstorm supporting examples, and outline your main points. This investment in planning typically results in better-organized, more coherent essays.
2. Take a Clear but Nuanced Position
Avoid absolute statements. Instead of "Technology is good" or "Technology is bad," consider qualified positions such as "Technology can enhance human thinking when used as a tool rather than a replacement for reasoning."
3. Use Specific, Relevant Examples
Draw examples from history, current events, literature, science, or personal experience. Specific examples are more persuasive than generic statements. Explain how each example supports your position.
4. Acknowledge Complexity
Recognize that most issues have legitimate perspectives on multiple sides. Demonstrate intellectual sophistication by acknowledging valid counterarguments while explaining why your position remains stronger.
5. Organize Your Essay Clearly
Follow a traditional essay structure:
- Introduction: Present the issue and your thesis
- Body Paragraphs: Develop your argument with supporting examples and reasoning
- Counterargument Paragraph: Acknowledge alternative perspectives
- Conclusion: Reinforce your thesis and summarize key points
6. Maintain Academic Tone and Grammar
Write in formal, academic English. Avoid colloquialisms, slang, and overly casual language. Proofread for grammar and spelling errors, though minor errors will not significantly impact your score.
7. Aim for Depth Over Length
While there is no word limit, most high-scoring essays range from 400-600 words. Focus on developing your ideas thoroughly rather than simply writing more. A well-developed paragraph is more valuable than multiple superficial paragraphs.
Preparation Strategies
Study Sample Essays
- Review official ETS sample essays at each score level (6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1)
- Analyze what makes high-scoring essays effective
- Identify characteristics of lower-scoring essays to avoid
- Notice patterns in organization, example selection, and reasoning
Practice Essay Planning
- For each practice prompt, spend 3-5 minutes planning before writing
- Develop thesis statements that present nuanced positions
- Brainstorm specific examples that support your thesis
- Outline your essay structure
Write Timed Essays
- Complete practice essays under 30-minute time constraints
- Time yourself to develop realistic pacing
- Aim to write 400-600 words in 30 minutes
- Practice typing to ensure you can compose fluently on a computer
Develop a Repository of Examples
- Identify versatile examples from history, literature, science, and current events
- Practice using these examples to support different positions
- Develop examples that can apply to multiple prompts
- Ensure examples are specific and relevant
Seek Feedback
- Have your practice essays reviewed by teachers, tutors, or writing centers
- Compare your essays to official sample essays
- Identify specific areas for improvement
- Revise and rewrite essays based on feedback
Review the Scoring Rubric
- Familiarize yourself with the six score levels
- Understand what distinguishes a 6 from a 5, a 5 from a 4, etc.
- Use the rubric to self-evaluate your practice essays
- Focus on developing the characteristics of high-scoring essays
Conclusion
Success on the GRE Analytical Writing section requires dedicated preparation, strategic practice, and a clear understanding of what the test measures. By studying the scoring rubric, practicing with authentic materials, and implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can develop the skills necessary to craft compelling, well-reasoned arguments.
Remember that writing is a skill that improves with practice. Consistent engagement with critical thinking, argumentation, and writing—both in your test preparation and in your broader academic life—will strengthen your abilities and increase your confidence on test day.
References
- ETS. "GRE General Test Analytical Writing Analyze an Issue Task."View Source
- ETS. "GRE General Test Analytical Writing Scoring."View Source