Tips to write a quality GRE ISSUE AWA essay within the allocated time

To analyze an issue effectively, candidates must examine a subject, form a well-informed opinion, and clearly articulate that opinion in writing. The topic consists of two main components: the stimulus and the question stem. The stimulus is the first paragraph that provides the information necessary for your analysis.

General Writing Guidelines

1) Strive for brevity. Cut out superfluous phrases and sentences that fail to enhance your message or introduce new ideas.

2) Pay attention to the flow of your sentences. While it’s important to vary your sentence structure, steer clear of lengthy, winding sentences that can confuse readers.

3) Steer clear of jargon and unnecessarily complex language. Aim for simplicity in your word choice.

4) Favor clear, specific language that conveys your thoughts directly, rather than relying on vague generalizations and abstract concepts.

5) Begin your sentences with strong, impactful words and use effective transitions between paragraphs to create a cohesive and engaging essay that is easy for readers to follow.



Writing Tips for Issues

1 **Take a moment** In this way you should be able to assess the situation at hand thoroughly. Carefully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages associated with the issue. After weighing these factors, make an informed decision based on your analysis.

2 **Utilize your whiteboard to craft an outline for your essay**. While time constraints may prevent you from developing a polished first draft, take this opportunity to sketch a basic outline. Begin by jotting down the key points you wish to include for each paragraph, ensuring that your thoughts are organized and focused. Ideally, by the time you start writing your essay, you should have a clear and coherent understanding of both the message you want to convey and the style in which you intend to present it. This preparatory step will help guide your writing process and enhance the overall quality of your essay.

3 **Avoid spending valuable time** deliberating over which side to choose. In every scenario, the options will be evenly balanced, presenting no clear "right" or "wrong" choice. Instead, focus on how well you articulate your position, as you will be assessed based on the strength of your reasoning and the quality of the evidence you provide to support your viewpoint.

4. **Get to the Point Immediately**: Begin your essay with a decisive sentence that clearly endorses one choice over the other. Do not waste valuable time or space by reiterating the scenario or the available alternatives, as your audience is already well-acquainted with these details.

5. **Use a Simple Format**: Adopt a two-paragraph structure for clarity and impact.

- In the first paragraph, explicitly state your choice and delve into the reasons that establish its superiority.

- Follow this with a second paragraph that thoughtfully explains why the alternative option falls short, concluding with a sentence that reinforces your original decision. This clear organization not only enhances readability but also strengthens the persuasive nature of your argument.

6. **Acknowledge Weaknesses and Strengths**: It is essential to recognize both the limitations of your preferred option as well as the merits of the alternative. By addressing both sides of the debate, you demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic. Engaging with potential objections makes your argument more robust. Always substantiate your claims with evidence, as unfounded assertions weaken your position.

7. **Avoid Restating the Situation**: Your introduction should dive straight into your choice and the rationale behind it, steering clear of recounting the scenario, alternatives, or criteria. Instead, present a clear interpretation rooted in the established criteria. It is important to articulate why particular facts should be viewed as either positive or negative within the argument.

8. **Maintain a Calm and Objective Tone**: Approach your writing with a composed and rational demeanor, steering clear of extremist viewpoints. This tone fosters credibility and encourages your audience to engage with your argument.

9. **Ensure Flawless Writing**: Attention to detail is critical, so strive for impeccable spelling, grammar, and overall writing mechanics. Present your ideas in a legible manner, utilizing simple, everyday vocabulary and sentence structures that you are comfortable with to ensure accessibility.

10. **Budget Your Time Wisely**: Allocate your time strategically to maximize efficiency. Spend the first five minutes reading the prompt, making a well-considered decision, and planning your essay. Utilize scrap paper to outline your main points effectively. Following this, dedicate approximately 20 minutes to composing your essay, leaving a final five minutes for proofreading to catch any spelling or grammatical errors.

8. **Finish Your Essay**: Completing your essay is vital, as it showcases your organizational skills and ability to manage your time effectively. A well-rounded conclusion leaves a lasting impression on your reader.