Ch4. GRE Analytical Writing — Issue & Argument Essay Strategy

GRE Analytical Writing Overview

1 task, 30 minutes (reduced from 2 tasks in the 2024 revision)

Scoring: 0–6 in 0.5-point increments, by ETS raters + AI

Possible task types:

Issue Task: Defend or argue against a given position with reasons and examples
Argument Task: Analyze the logical flaws in a given argument

Scoring Criteria (5 Elements)

Criterion	What Raters Look For
Analysis of complex ideas	Depth and insight on the topic
Relevant reasons & examples	Concrete, well-chosen support
Essay organization	Clear intro, body, conclusion
Vocabulary & grammar	Variety, accuracy, fluency
Transitions	Smooth logical connections between paragraphs

Issue Essay Structure

Task format: Given a claim or policy statement, develop a position with supporting reasoning and examples.

Issue Essay Template

Paragraph 1 (Introduction):
"The question of whether [topic] is both complex and consequential.
While some argue [opposing view], I contend that [your position],
particularly when one considers [reason 1] and [reason 2]."

Paragraph 2 (Reason 1 + Example):
"[Topic sentence]. [Concrete example/evidence]. [Link to thesis]."

Paragraph 3 (Reason 2 + Example):
"[Topic sentence]. [Example]. [Connection]."

Paragraph 4 (Counterargument + Rebuttal):
"Admittedly, one might argue that [opposing view]. 
However, this perspective overlooks [your rebuttal reason]."

Paragraph 5 (Conclusion):
"In conclusion, [restate position]. [Summarize key reasons]. [Broader insight]."

Argument Essay Structure

Task format: A short argument passage is given. Analyze its logical weaknesses — do NOT argue for or against the conclusion.

Common Logical Flaws to Identify

Flaw	Description
Causation/Correlation error	Treating co-occurrence as causation
Hasty generalization	Small sample → sweeping conclusion
False analogy	Assuming two situations are comparable
False dichotomy	Presenting only two options when more exist
Unwarranted assumption	Treating an unproven premise as fact

Argument Essay Template

"The argument that [conclusion] contains several logical flaws 
that undermine its persuasiveness.

First, the argument assumes [assumption 1] without evidence. 
[Explain why this is problematic with a counterexample or alternative explanation.]

Second, the claim that [premise] constitutes a [name the flaw]. 
[Explain the flaw.]

Finally, [third flaw + explanation].

To strengthen the argument, the author would need to provide 
[specific evidence type]. Without these, the conclusion remains unsupported."

Characteristics of a 5–6 Score Essay

Specific examples: Historical, scientific, or social examples (not vague generalities)
Conceded counterarguments: Acknowledge the other side and refute it
Varied vocabulary: No repetition of the same high-frequency words
Sentence variety: Balance simple, compound, and complex sentences

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