The Importance of Analytical Writing in GRE Scores

Many students often wonder whether the analytical writing section of the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) adds to their overall score or not. This article aims to clarify any confusion and emphasize the significance of the Analytical Writing Ability (AWA) section in your GRE application.

Does Analytical Writing Contribute to Your GRE Score?

Yes, the Analytical Writing section does contribute to your overall GRE score. However, it has a different scoring scale and is not directly added to the 340 point numerical score, which is reserved for the Quantitative and Verbal sections.

The Structure of the GRE General Test

The GRE General Test is structured into three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.

Scoring of the Analytical Writing Section

The Analytical Writing section is scored out of 6, in 0.5 point increments. This section primarily consists of two tasks: Argument Essay Issue Essay Each essay is independently scored by two raters, and the scores are averaged to produce a final score.

Why the Analytical Writing Section is Important

Despite not being directly weighted as heavily as the Verbal and Quantitative sections in some admissions processes, the Analytical Writing score is a crucial part of your application. Here are several reasons why:

Indicates Writing Proficiency

The AWA section is designed to assess your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely. Nearly every Graduate degree program in the United States requires extensive writing assignments, from essays to project reports or scientific papers. Admissions committees need to ensure that applicants have the necessary writing skills to successfully complete these tasks.

Indicates Consistency

Assume you performed exceptionally well on the Quantitative and Verbal sections, achieving a total score of 320 out of 340. If your Analytical Writing score is below par (e.g., 3.0 or less), your high overall score might not hold as much weight. Conversely, a strong AWA score demonstrates consistency in your preparation and effort across all sections of the GRE.

Reflects Authenticity in Statements of Purpose

Your statement of purpose (SOP) is a crucial component of your application, often written or edited by a professional. A weak AWA score can raise suspicions about the authenticity of your SOP, as admissions committees may doubt your ability to produce high-quality written work independently.

Preparation Tips for the Analytical Writing Section

To prepare effectively for the AWA section:

Practice extensively: Familiarize yourself with the task types and practice responding to different prompts. Improve your writing skills: Work on clarity, coherence, and logical flow in your writing. Seek feedback: Have your essays reviewed by peers or professionals to identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

In summary, the Analytical Writing section of the GRE General Test, although scored separately, is an important part of your application. It demonstrates your writing proficiency, consistency, and ability to produce high-quality written work, which are valuable skills in graduate programs.

If you have any further questions about the GRE or need assistance with your application, feel free to reach out on Instagram or email.