Analysis of Issue: Content

Graders of the Analysis of Issue essay expect an essay that:

1. Is well developed, logical and coherent;
   
2. Demonstrates critical thinking skills;
3. Uses varied sentence structure and vocabulary;
   
4. Uses standard written English and follows the language’s conventions;
   
5. Is free of mechanical errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization.
   

How do I write a well-balanced essay?

Acknowledge both sides of the issue to show that you understand it fully. At the same time, you must pick a side and persuade the reader that, despite the counter-arguments, your position is the strongest one overall.

Show the reader that you see both sides of the issue by occasionally using qualifiers (we discuss this in a later topic) when describing each side. This will allow you to acknowledge the opposing view and appear scholarly. (Note that overuse of qualifiers will make the essay appear vague and dilute your argument).

Be as politically correct as possible in your essay. You can never predict who will be reading your essay, so it is best not to gamble with highly charged writing. Stick to uncontroversial ideas and opinions. Doing so assures that your reader will not be able to disagree with you and potentially score you accordingly. An extreme or forceful essay may also confuse the E-rater, since your essay will not resemble any essays it has stored in its database. Nevertheless, you must take a stand. Pick the side you feel most comfortable arguing make your opinion clear throughout the essay.

Note: Do not write an unsubstantiated opinion. Write an argument that consists of your thesis and logical arguments to support it.

Your essay will be short (you have only 30 minutes), so you won't be able to cover every possible argument, rebuttal and example. At the beginning of your time, set aside a few minutes to outline your essay and choose your examples. You do not have to cover every idea/concept. Choose the most persuasive points and relevant examples. The GMAT graders do not expect you to go in-depth on every topic.

The most important concern is that you do not stray from the topic and your argument. Try not to focus too much on any one example or write any tangential arguments; either will undermine the communication of your main argument to the reader.


Where should I get examples?

The AWA tests analytical writing, not specific subject knowledge, so don’t worry too much about impressing the grader with detailed knowledge in any one area. What’s more important is that you show that you can effectively argue a point using intelligent examples. Your supporting evidence may be drawn from personal experience, academic knowledge, current events, and/or history. Try to limit your use of personal experience unless it is very compelling, relevant and effective.


Where do I get essay issue ideas?

Coming up with ideas is generally easier for students who have taken government policy analysis courses. This section favors the student who flips to the editorial page of the Wall St. Journal. To get comfortable with public policy issues, try reading the Wall Street Journal, The Nation or The Economist regularly before the test.

International Students: Read these American magazines as much as possible to see how Americans structure their writing and to stay updated on issues.

	Write with your grader in mind When you write your Issue essay, remember that you are fundamentally writing your essay to please your grader. Keep it concise Put yourself in the position of a grader. They grade essays all day. Wouldn't you favor a concise and effective essay with 5 paragraphs of 4 sentences each more than a 4 paragraph rambling essay with 10 sentences in each paragraph? Keep the essays crisp, concise, and well structured. This is particularly important on the Analysis of Issue question, where your essay expresses personal opinions.