How to Prepare for the ‘Analysis of an Issue’ essay in the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)

How to Prepare for the ‘Analysis of an Issue’ essay in the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)


Many students neglect their preparation for the AWA section. They leave it till too late. Remember, that you need to practice adequately and have a strategy in place. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Structure your Thoughts before you begin

Before you begin writing, spend a few minutes (but not more than five-seven minutes) preparing a rough outline on a rough sheet on what you plan to write-the points you wish to include, your thoughts etc. After this, you may choose to arrange the points/ thoughts you have penned down in a logical order or according to priority.

It is certainly crucial to structure your thoughts. This is a critical aspect of the AWA paper. Your points need to have a logical flow.

Structure your Output

It is quite important that your essay has the following:

• An Introduction to the Topic, in which you could outline the points you will subsequently make
• The main body comprising 3-4 paragraphs with the main points, supporting examples, reasons and logic
• A Conclusion, in which you sum up the points and your view

Remember, this indicates a well-thought out approach to writing. Given a computer grades your essay, the above points are quite important.

It would be best to express each separate idea of yours in a separate paragraph. Ensure that you clearly and concisely stated your view. And more importantly, make sure that the view is backed with sound logic, examples and reasons.

Remember also that it is not necessary to be concerned with whether your view matches that of the evaluator. What matters is whether the analysis is sound.

In the conclusion, you could summarize the main points you have made. In fact, it might be a good idea to link the conclusion to the Introduction.


Time Management

As mentioned before, spend the first five minutes in thinking about what to write, the points you wish to include, structuring your points etc. The next 20 minutes or so could be spent in the actual writing.

And finally, you should leave the last five minutes for proof-reading. Make sure of the following aspects in this time:

• Make sure the points mentioned in the introduction are developed in the main body of the essay and there is a logical flow
• Look out for and correct the grammatical errors, typos, errors in syntax etc
• Check that your thoughts have been communicated clearly and concisely.
• Do not try to change too much in the last five minutes. This will result in a garbled essay!


Be Smart: Use ‘Transition’ words

Remember that both a human and a Computer grade your essay. A computer will not be able to appreciate the usage of subtle metaphors, poetry, humour etc. All that is required is a logical flow, good analysis, correct grammar etc.

One point you may keep in mind is that you could use ‘Transition’ words. These help to link sentences together or clearly outline separate points. This is what the Evaluator looks for- a smooth, logical flow.

For example, the usage of words such as ‘for example’, ‘subsequently’, ‘consequently’, ‘however’ etc are likely to prove quite useful.

Similarly, while expressing different ideas, use words such as ‘Firstly’ ‘second’, ‘next’ ‘finally’ etc will be useful-this shall help the Evaluator follow your points and the essay's structure easily.

Aim to be Clear and Precise in your Logic

Evaluators markedly look for the ability to present ideas and arguments clearly and logically.

Your essay should have a natural ‘flow’. One point should lead to another seamlessly. Don’t be vague or all over the place.

Similarly, don’t just put forward your theories/ views without logic. The Evaluator looks for analytical ability, not only a collection of views/ your perspectives.

Another point is that refrain from using ‘big words’ whose meaning you may not yourself understand. Evaluators look for correct and proper English, and not necessarily for outstanding Vocabulary.

Acknowledge the limitations of your Perspective

It is important to acknowledge and express the limitations of the perspective or view you present. You need to be discerning. If your view is applicable only for a particular set of circumstances, then do acknowledge it. You may then outline why those set of circumstances are relevant to the issue at hand.

It is important also to be able to refute the possible counter-arguments that others may have regarding your view. You need to acknowledge that ‘Others may say that..’ and then refute the counter-point.


Use correct Grammar

As mentioned many a time, correct English and grammar is important. Grammar does influence the opinion that the Evaluator shall have of your essay and hence your grade. In fact, some say that if your essay is grammatically incorrect, the Evaluator may well conclude that the essay's logic, structure etc, are also incorrect.

Practice

As for almost everything else, make sure you have enough practice in Issue Analysis. Do not neglect this part of the GMAT exam. The more essays you write, the better you shall get at framing a structure, and putting across your thoughts clearly, effectively, concisely and logically.