The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT is currently split into two essay questions; analysis of an issue, and analysis of an argument.
In the analysis of an argument essay question, GMAT test-takers will be given a short sample text, and a question relating to an argument expressed within that text. Rather than expressing your own opinion on the subject, the main objective here is to critique the argument in the text.
While reading the sample text in the first instance, focus on finding faults within the argument. These can include generalizations, points not backed up by facts, and insufficient reasoning. As the sample text is usually quite short, at around one or two paragraphs these faults are normally easy to spot for those who have a good understanding of the English language.
High scoring analyses
High scoring answers in the analysis of an argument essay question not only find fault within the argument, but also suggest ways in which the argument can be improved. While the suggestions for improvement do not necessarily have to be specific, the faults within the argument should certainly be accurately identified.
A further factor which must be looked at during the analysis of an argument essay question in the GMAT AWA is what is not included in the sample text’s argument.
For various reasons, the author of the text could be biased towards the argument that they are putting forward in the text, and so might fail to mention facts that counter their argument. They may also have simply made an error, and not considered some opposing views. If a test-taker is able to identify these failings in the argument, suggest what the opposing views might consist of, and mention where supporting facts might be found to enforce these counter arguments, then they should score very well during the analysis of an argument essay question.
Free GMAT sample questions
The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), who run the GMAT has a freely available list of all of the current sample texts and questions for the analysis of an argument essay on their website, mba.com. Rather than purchasing costly study aids and lessons, it can be far more cost efficient to practice using these tests in order to ascertain your level of understanding of this section, using paid-for services only if you feel you need to.
While it is easy to confuse what each essay question in the GMAT AWA asks of MBA candidates, test-takers should always be aware that the analysis of an essay question requires a very different approach to the analysis of an issue question. Once this has been understood, then the only true method of boosting your possible GMAT AWA score is through practice.
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