The first section you will face on the GMAT is the Analytical Writing Assessment or AWA. This is also often referred to as the "essay section". In this part of the test, you have to write two essays, each in 30 minutes. Both of the essays will be in response to a written prompt. These are called Analysis of an Issue, and Analysis of an Argument.
The AWA does not test specific topics, nor does it require in-depth business knowledge. Instead it is designed to test your ability to gather your thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely, and be able to communicate them effectively.
GMAT Analysis of an Argument Essay
The Analysis of an Argument question presents a brief argument (similar to a statement you would find in a critical reasoning question). By argument, we mean a short piece of text where an assertion is made or a point of view is stated, and then this is support in the text.
Your essay should critique the structure of the argument and explain how persuasive or unpersuasive you find it. You are not supposed to present your own point of view on what the topic and argue that in the essay - doing this will cost you points.
Ask yourself the following about the argument:
- What is the conclusion?
- What evidence is there to support this conclusion?
- What assumptions does the writer make in moving from evidence to conclusion?
- Is the argument persuasive?
- What would make it stronger? Weaker?
GMAT Analysis of an Issue Essay
In the Analysis of an Issue question, you can form and present your own opinion on a matter. The question will present you with a broad general issue with several facets. Sometimes two points of view will be asserted and other times you will see only one. Your task is to explore the issue's complexities, formulate an opinion, and then express this convincingly.
There is no "correct" answer here, so it doesn't matter which side you advocate. What does matter, however, is that you form an opinion and express it in grammatically correct English plus provide some concrete examples to support your ideas, all while making yourself as clear as possible to the reader. Generally speaking, GMAT test takers find this the easier of the two essays.
