Efficient GRE AWA Practice: Resources and Tools
Introduction to GRE AWA Practice
The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is designed to measure your ability to think critically and articulate your ideas effectively. If you are looking for effective resources to practice for this section, several tools and methods can be utilized to enhance your writing skills. This article explores the various resources available, from official ETS sources to online platforms and study groups.
Official GRE Website: A Trustworthy Source
The ETS Official GRE Website is a reliable source for practicing the AWA section. You can find sample prompts and detailed scoring guides. These resources are invaluable as they align precisely with the criteria used for the actual test. Understanding the structure and format of these prompts will significantly improve your performance during the actual exam.
GRE Prep Books: Comprehensive Guides for Success
Several reputable GRE prep books, such as those from Kaplan, Manhattan Prep, and Princeton Review, offer comprehensive AWA practice. These books are well-regarded for their thorough analysis and guidance. They include practice prompts, sample essays, and detailed scoring rubrics. These resources not only provide practice but also offer valuable insights into the scoring criteria and effective writing strategies.
Online AWA Score Generators: Enhancing Your Writing Skills
For those seeking immediate feedback on their writing, online AWA score generators are a great option. Many platforms like Magoosh and PrepScholar offer sample prompts and scoring features. Additionally, they provide scoring rubrics and tips for improvement. This instant feedback can be incredibly beneficial as it allows you to identify and rectify writing weaknesses quickly.
Essay Grading Services: A Real-World Experience
Storyboard Tech, the company behind the official ETS scoring, also provides essay grading services through its ScoreItNow platform. This service is particularly useful for those looking for an authentic evaluation experience. Here, you can submit your essays for evaluation, and you will receive scores based on the official GRE scoring criteria. Along with the scores, you will also get detailed feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Joining GRE Forums and Study Groups
Engaging with online GRE forums and study groups can also be a valuable resource. Websites like Reddit and GRE-specific platforms often host practice prompts and allow peer feedback on essays. This peer interaction can provide you with different perspectives and valuable insights that might not be available through other resources.
Practice Apps: On-the-Go GRE Prep
For GRE candidates on the go, mobile apps designed for GRE preparation can also be very helpful. These apps often include AWA practice sections, offering a comprehensive set of tools to help you stay prepared no matter where you are.
ETS ScoreItNow: A Valuable But Paid Service
For a more in-depth and official evaluation, ETS offers the ScoreItNow online practice service. For a fee of $20, you can respond to exam-like AWA topics created and tested by ETS test authors. You can submit your responses online and receive immediate scores using ETS’s e-rater automated scoring system. Furthermore, you will have access to scored sample essay responses, general writing suggestions, and diagnostic feedback. While this service is not free, it offers a level of authenticity and professionalism rare in other less expensive or community-driven options.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Resources
When choosing resources to practice for the GRE AWA, it is essential to consider the reliability, feedback, and cost of the materials. The official ETS resources and strategies provided here should serve as the foundation for your practice. For those seeking a real-world, professional evaluation, services like ScoreItNow provide an excellent, albeit costlier, option. By leveraging a combination of these resources, you can effectively enhance your AWA skills and be well-prepared for the exam.