GRE AWA — How to Score 5+ on Analytical Writing
Score 5+ on GRE Analytical Writing with proven essay templates, argument analysis techniques, time management, and practice strategies.
The GRE Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is often underestimated, but a strong AWA score (5+) signals critical thinking ability to admissions committees. This guide from ExamHub gives you a proven framework to score well.
AWA Format (Updated)
Since September 2023, the GRE AWA has only one essay task:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Task | Analyze an Issue |
| Time | 30 minutes |
| Score Range | 0-6 (half-point increments) |
| Scoring | Two readers (human + e-rater) |
Issue Task — What Is Expected
You are given a statement on a broad topic and asked to present your perspective with supporting reasons and examples.
Sample prompt: "In any field of inquiry, the beginner is more likely than the expert to make important contributions." You must:- Take a clear position (agree, disagree, or nuanced middle ground)
- Support with specific reasons and examples
- Address counterarguments
- Write in clear, well-organized prose
The 5+ Essay Template
Paragraph Structure (5 paragraphs)
| Paragraph | Content | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1 — Introduction | Hook + thesis statement + roadmap | 3-4 sentences |
| 2 — Body 1 | Strongest argument + example | 5-7 sentences |
| 3 — Body 2 | Second argument + example | 5-7 sentences |
| 4 — Counterargument | Address opposing view + refute | 4-5 sentences |
| 5 — Conclusion | Restate thesis + broader implication | 3-4 sentences |
Time Allocation
| Phase | Time | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Planning | 3-4 minutes | Read prompt, choose position, outline arguments |
| Writing | 22-24 minutes | Write all 5 paragraphs |
| Review | 3-4 minutes | Check grammar, spelling, coherence |
Introduction Template
"The statement that [paraphrase the prompt] raises an important question about [broader topic]. While [acknowledge some validity], I [agree/disagree/believe that the reality is more nuanced] because [reason 1] and [reason 2]. However, [brief mention of counterargument] must also be considered."
Body Paragraph Template
"[Topic sentence connecting to thesis]. [Explanation of the argument]. For example, [specific example from history, science, business, or personal observation]. [Analysis of how the example supports your point]. This demonstrates that [connection back to thesis]."
Counterargument Template
"Admittedly, proponents of the opposing view might argue that [counterargument]. This perspective has some merit, as [brief acknowledgment]. However, [refutation with reasoning]. Therefore, while [concession], the evidence more strongly supports [your thesis]."
What Separates a 5 from a 4
| Criteria | Score 4 | Score 5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Clear but simple | Clear and nuanced |
| Examples | Generic or hypothetical | Specific and varied |
| Counterargument | Mentioned | Addressed and refuted |
| Language | Adequate | Varied vocabulary, complex sentences |
| Organization | Logical | Logical with smooth transitions |
| Length | 350-400 words | 450-550 words |
Types of Examples to Use
Draw from diverse fields to show breadth of thinking:
| Field | Example Topics |
|---|---|
| Science | Einstein, Darwin, climate research, AI development |
| History | Industrial Revolution, civil rights, world wars |
| Technology | Internet, smartphones, social media impact |
| Business | Apple, Tesla, startup culture, corporate governance |
| Society | Education systems, healthcare, urbanization |
| Personal | Academic experiences, workplace observations |
Common Mistakes That Kill Your Score
- No clear position — Sitting on the fence without committing to a view
- Generic examples — "Some people" or "many studies show" without specifics
- No counterargument — Not addressing the other side makes your argument weak
- Poor time management — Running out of time and leaving the essay incomplete
- Grammar errors — Consistent basic errors (subject-verb agreement, tense consistency)
- Off-topic rambling — Every paragraph must connect to your thesis
- Too short — Essays under 350 words rarely score above 4
Practice Plan
- Week 1 — Read 10 sample prompts from the ETS pool (available on ets.org), write 2 essays
- Week 2 — Write 3 timed essays (strict 30 minutes), review and improve
- Week 3 — Write 2 more essays, focus on using specific examples and counterarguments
- Before exam — Review your best essay as a mental template
Free Resources
- ETS Issue Task Pool — All possible prompts published on ets.org (free)
- ETS Scoring Guide — Official rubric with sample essays at each score level
- YouTube — GRE AWA strategy videos
- Download sample essays from MyPDF
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the AWA score matter for admissions?
For most MS and PhD programs, AWA is less important than Verbal and Quant scores. However, a score below 3.5 can raise concerns about your writing ability. Business schools tend to value it more. Aim for 4.5+ to be safe.
How many words should a GRE essay be?
Aim for 450-550 words. Research shows a positive correlation between essay length and score, but only up to a point. Quality matters more than quantity — a focused 450-word essay scores better than a rambling 600-word one.
Can I use personal examples in the GRE essay?
Yes, personal examples are acceptable but should be used sparingly (one at most). Complement them with examples from history, science, or current events. Personal examples alone can make an essay seem anecdotal rather than analytical.