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Graders of the Analysis of Issue essay expect an essay that:
- Is well developed, logical and coherent;
- Demonstrates critical thinking skills;
- Uses varied sentence structure and vocabulary;
- Uses standard written English and follows the language’s conventions;
- Is free of mechanical errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization.
How do I write a well-balanced essay?
Acknowledge both sides of the issue to show that you understand it
fully. At the same time, you must pick a side and persuade the reader
that, despite the counter-arguments, your position is the strongest
one overall.
Show
the reader that you see both sides of the issue by occasionally using qualifiers (we discuss this later in chapter 5) when describing
each side. This will allow you to acknowledge the opposing view and
appear scholarly. (Note that overuse of qualifiers will make the essay
appear vague and dilute your argument).
Be
as politically correct as possible in your essay. You can never predict
who will be reading your essay, so it is best not to gamble with highly
charged writing. Stick to uncontroversial ideas and opinions. Doing
so assures that your reader will not be able to disagree with you
and potentially score you accordingly. Nevertheless, you must take
a stand. Pick the side you feel most comfortable arguing make your
opinion clear throughout the essay.
Note: Do not write an unsubstantiated opinion. Write an argument that
consists of your thesis and logical arguments to support it.
Your
essay will be short (you have only 30 minutes), so you won't be able
to cover every possible argument, rebuttal and example. At the beginning
of your time, set aside a few minutes to outline your essay and choose
your examples. You do not have to cover every idea/concept. Choose
the most persuasive points and relevant examples. The GRE graders
do not expect you to go in-depth on every topic.
The
most important concern is that you do not stray from the topic
and your argument. Try not to focus too much on any one example or
write any tangential arguments; either will undermine the communication
of your main argument to the reader.
Where should I get examples?
The
AWA tests analytical writing, not specific subject knowledge, so don’t
worry too much about impressing the grader with detailed knowledge
in any one area. What’s more important is that you show that
you can effectively argue a point using intelligent examples. Your
supporting evidence may be drawn from personal experience, academic
knowledge, current events, and/or history. Try to limit your use of
personal experience unless it is very compelling, relevant and effective.
Where do I get essay issue ideas?
Coming up with ideas is generally easier for students who have taken
government policy analysis courses. This section favors the student
who flips to the editorial page of the Wall St. Journal. To get comfortable with public policy issues,
try reading the Wall
Street Journal, The
Nation, or the Economist regularly before the test. International Students: Read these American magazines as much as possible
to see how Americans structure their writing and to stay updated on
issues.
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Write with your grader in mind
When you write your Issue essay, remember that you are fundamentally writing your essay to please your grader.
Keep it concise
Put yourself in the position of a grader. They grade essays all day. Wouldn't you favor a concise and effective essay with 5 paragraphs of 4 sentences each more than a 4 paragraph rambling essay with 10 sentences in each paragraph? Keep the essays crisp, concise, and well structured. This is particularly important on the Analysis of Issue question, where your essay expresses personal opinions. |
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