The Graduate Record Examination (GRE®) has two types of essay topics: one that asks the test taker to analyze an issue and another that asks him or her to analyze an argument. The analyze-an-issue topic gives the test taker a central issue and asks him or her to think critically about it before expressing their thoughts. The writer must critique the logic of an argument in the analyze-an-argument section. Anyone taking the GRE® must complete both timed writing tasks separately. When the revised GRE® becomes standard on August 1, 2011, there will be no significant changes to this section of the test.
The writer is asked to analyze and evaluate an argument in one of the two GRE® essay topics. A short paragraph will present an argument for a particular interpretation of events, which will include a claim and evidence to back it up. The structure and line of reasoning in this paragraph, as well as the claim and proof offered, must be considered the test taker.
The writer is not asked to agree or disagree with the author of the paragraph or to express his or her opinion on the events presented when analyzing an argument. The test taker must evaluate the argument’s logic as well as demonstrate critical thinking and analytical reading abilities. Because there are several options for GRE® essay topics, it is critical to read the instructions carefully. Failure to respond to the question can result in a low score.
Another possible GRE® essay topic is analyzing an issue. The writer will be asked to consider a topic of general interest and express his or her opinion on it in this section. The writer’s job is to make a compelling case for his or her own point of view. Prior to writing, it is a good idea to think about the problem from various angles.
The analyze-an-issue writing task does not have a single correct answer. The grade is based on the writer’s ability to develop an argument in support of his or her position in a clear and effective manner. In this section, a high-scoring essay will directly address the topic.
The GRE® essay topics assess a test taker’s ability to think critically and write analytically. The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, provide relevant supporting reasons and examples, and maintain a coherent and focused discussion are all factors that go into scoring. This section will improve a test taker’s score if they examine claims and evidence critically and demonstrate a command of standard written English.
In the GRE® essay topics section, test takers will have 30 minutes per writing task. On a computer, those taking the GRE® will use a word processor created the Educational Testing Service. This word processor has cut-and-paste and undo functions, as well as the ability to insert and delete text. There isn’t a spell or grammar checker to be found. The essays will be written hand for those taking the paper-based test.
After August 1, 2011, the GRE® will change. In the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections, new question types will be added. The writing section of the exam will not be changed significantly, but instead of a choice of topics, each task will have only one topic.