The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) Analytical Writing section evaluates a candidate's critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It requires test-takers to analyse an argument or issue and provide a well-structured, coherent response. The section is computer-based and timed, with test-takers given 30 minutes to complete each task.

The GMAT Analytical Writing section is a crucial component of the GMAT exam and is required by most business schools as part of their admission process. A strong performance in this section demonstrates the candidate's ability to communicate effectively and logically, which are vital for success in a business environment. Additionally, it indicates the candidate's potential for academic success in a graduate management program.

GMAT Analytical Writing aims to assess the candidate's ability to think critically, analyse arguments and issues, and express their ideas effectively in writing. It is intended to evaluate a candidate's communication ability, which is essential for success in graduate management programs and the business world. The section aims to provide a reliable and objective measure of the candidate's analytical writing skills, which can be used to evaluate their suitability for admission to business school programs.

Overview of GMAT Analytical Writing

The GMAT Analytical Writing section consists of two tasks: Analysis of an Argument and Analysis of an Issue. In the Analysis of an Argument task, test-takers are presented with an argument and must analyse the reasoning presented, identifying its strengths and weaknesses and providing evidence to support their analysis. In the Analysis of an Issue task, test-takers are presented with a statement or issue and must develop a well-reasoned argument that supports or opposes the issue.

Test-takers are given 30 minutes to complete each task for 60 minutes for the entire Analytical Writing section. The time constraints require test-takers to think and write quickly, which can be challenging for some candidates.

The GMAT Analytical Writing section is graded on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. The grading system evaluates the quality of the candidate's analysis and writing, including the coherence and clarity of their response, their ability to develop and support arguments, and their use of language and grammar.

The scores from the two tasks are averaged to provide an overall score for the Analytical Writing section. The score report includes the score and a percentile ranking, which shows how the candidate performed compared to other test-takers who took the GMAT Analytical Writing section.

GMAT Analytical Writing Sections

Analysis of an Argument

The Analysis of an Argument task in the GMAT Analytical Writing section tests the candidate's ability to evaluate and analyse arguments critically. The task requires the candidate to analyse the argument, identify any weaknesses in the reasoning, and provide evidence to support their analysis.

The candidate is presented with a brief paragraph that presents an argument related to a business, economic or social issue. The candidate is presented with a brief paragraph that presents an argument related to a business, economic or social issue. The candidate is presented with a brief paragraph that presents an argument related to a business, economic or social issue.

Sample prompts for the Analysis of an Argument task may include arguments related to business decisions, economic policies, or social issues. For example:

• "The CEO of XYZ Corporation argues that increasing the company's advertising budget will lead to a significant increase in sales. Evaluate the reasoning presented in the argument and provide evidence to support your analysis."
• "A recent study suggests that reducing the workweek to four days would increase employee productivity and job satisfaction. Analyse the argument presented and identify any potential weaknesses or flaws in the reasoning."

To perform well in the Analysis of an Argument task, candidates should:

• Read the argument carefully and identify the key assumptions and claims made by the author.
• Analyse the argument critically, looking for any flaws in the reasoning or inconsistencies in the evidence presented.
• Use evidence to support their analysis, such as data, statistics or examples.
• Address potential counter-arguments or alternative perspectives in their response.
• Write a clear and concise response that is well-structured and easy to follow.

Analysis of an Issue

The Analysis of an Issue task in the GMAT Analytical Writing section requires the candidate to develop a well-reasoned argument about a specific issue or statement. The task tests the candidate's ability to think critically and construct a compelling argument, using evidence and examples to support their position.

Sample prompts for the Analysis of an Issue task may include statements or issues related to business, politics, or social issues. For example:

• "Companies should prioritise social and environmental responsibility over maximising profits."
• "Government should fund scientific research to advance technology and innovation."
• "It is important for individuals to seek new experiences and challenges to grow and develop."

To perform well in the Analysis of an Issue task, candidates should:

• Choose a clear and well-defined position on the issue presented.
• Develop a well-reasoned argument that is supported by evidence and examples.
• Address potential counter-arguments or alternative perspectives in their response.
• Write a clear and concise response that is well-structured and easy to follow.
• Use effective language and grammar to communicate their ideas clearly and persuasively.

Tips and Strategies for GMAT Analytical Writing

Pre-writing strategies

• It is important to read and understand the prompt before writing the essay. Identify the key elements of the prompt, including the issue or argument being presented, any specific requirements or instructions, and the overall purpose of the task.
• Before starting to write the essay, developing a clear plan or outline is helpful. This can include brainstorming ideas, organising thoughts and evidence, and identifying the key points to be addressed in the essay. A well-organized essay will be easier to write and more effective in communicating the candidate's ideas.

Writing strategies

• A strong thesis statement is essential for a well-written essay. The thesis statement should clearly state the candidate's position on the issue or argument presented and provide a roadmap for the rest of the essay.
• The essay should be supported by relevant examples and evidence illustrating and supporting the candidate's argument. This can include data, statistics, personal experiences, or real-world examples.
• Using transitional phrases and sentence structures helps make the essay more coherent and easy to follow. This includes using words and phrases like "in addition," "moreover," "however," and "nevertheless" to connect ideas and signal shifts in the argument.

Editing and revising strategies

• After completing the essay, reviewing it for clarity and coherence is important. Check that the argument is well-supported by evidence, that the thesis statement is clear and effective, and that the essay is easy to follow and understand.
• The essay should be free of grammar and syntax errors that could distract from the argument or make the essay difficult to read. Check for punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure errors, and make any necessary revisions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in GMAT Analytical Writing

Lack of clarity and coherence

One common mistake in GMAT Analytical Writing is a need for more clarity and coherence in the essay. This can happen when the candidate needs to provide a clear thesis statement or use transitional phrases and sentence structures to connect ideas. To avoid this, candidates should ensure that their essay is well-organized, easy to follow, and presents the argument.

Failure to address the prompt

Another common mistake is the failure to address the prompt effectively. This can happen when the candidate needs to understand the prompt or respond directly to the issue or argument presented. To avoid this, candidates should take the time to carefully read and understand the prompt before beginning to write the essay and should ensure that their essay addresses the key points raised in the prompt.

Over-reliance on personal opinions and anecdotes

While it is important to provide relevant examples and evidence to support the argument, avoiding over-reliance on personal opinions and anecdotes is also important. This can make the essay seem less credible and less persuasive to the reader. To avoid this, candidates should provide evidence and examples that are relevant, verifiable, and support the overall argument being presented.

By avoiding these common mistakes, candidates can improve their performance in the GMAT Analytical Writing section and score better. With careful planning, organisation, and attention to detail, candidates can write effective and persuasive essays demonstrating their analytical and writing skills.