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Acing the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment:Tips to Impress B-School 22 Apr 2024, 00:42
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­Acing the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment: Tips to Impress B-Schools (And Avoid the Essay Scramble!)

You've conquered the quantitative mountains of the GMAT and navigated the verbal minefield. Now, there's one more hurdle: the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA). Don't let the fancy name fool you – it's basically your chance to show business schools you can think critically and write persuasively. But unlike cramming formulas, this section requires a different kind of muscle memory.

So, how do you craft an AWA essay that screams "admit me!" instead of "admit defeat"? Fear not, fellow applicants! This guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to write an AWA that showcases your analytical chops and leaves a lasting impression.


Why Does the AWA Matter?

Think of the AWA as your business school elevator pitch. In 30 minutes, you need to convince the admissions committee that you can handle the complex writing and analysis expected in an MBA program. It's not just about grammar (although that's important too!). It's about demonstrating your ability to dissect an argument, form a clear and concise response, and support it with evidence.

The AWA Lowdown: What to Expect
The AWA presents you with an "analysis of an argument" prompt. This argument could be about anything from a new social policy to a business strategy. Your job is to analyze the reasoning behind the argument, identifying its strengths and weaknesses. Here's what the graders are looking for:
  • Analysis: Can you break down the argument into its key components? What are the assumptions, evidence, and conclusions presented?
  • Critique: Can you identify any flaws or logical fallacies in the argument?
  • Development of Ideas: Can you clearly articulate your own thoughts and support them with examples or reasoning?
  • Writing Skills: Do you demonstrate strong grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure?

Crafting a Winning AWA Essay: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know the drill, let's get down to brass tacks! Here's your roadmap to writing an AWA essay that shines:

1. Prepping for the Fight:
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Don't wait until test day to flex your writing muscles. Dedicate some time beforehand to practice writing AWA essays under timed conditions. This will help you develop your focus, identify areas needing improvement, and get comfortable with the essay format.
  • Brush Up on Your Basics: Review common grammatical errors and sentence structures. A well-written essay makes a strong first impression. Solid grammar and mechanics demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism – qualities valued in any business school.
  • Build Your Arsenal: Familiarize yourself with different argument analysis techniques. Learn to identify logical fallacies and common weaknesses in reasoning. Understanding these concepts will allow you to deconstruct the argument presented in the prompt with greater sophistication.

2. Game Time: Dissecting the Prompt:
  • Read Carefully: Take your time and understand the prompt thoroughly. Don't rush into a response before fully grasping the argument you're analyzing. What is the argument being presented? What is your task (agree, disagree, or analyze both sides)?
  • Identify Key Points: Underline or highlight the main points of the argument, including the claims, evidence, and assumptions. Annotating the prompt helps you stay focused and ensures you address all the crucial elements in your essay.

3. Constructing Your Response:
  • Planning is Key: Don't jump straight into writing! Sketch an outline to organize your thoughts. Typically, your essay will have an introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A well-structured essay ensures a logical flow of ideas and avoids rambling or irrelevant tangents.
  • Introduction: Hook the reader with a brief overview of the argument. State your position – whether you agree or disagree with the overall point. Briefly mention the key strengths and weaknesses you'll be exploring in the essay.
  • Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the argument. Analyze the reasoning, identifying strengths and weaknesses. Use evidence (examples or counter-arguments) to support your points. For instance, if you identify an assumption in the argument that lacks strong backing, provide a counter-example to illustrate its potential flaw.
  • Conclusion: Summarize your key points and reiterate your position on the argument. Don't introduce any new information here.

4. Pro Writing Tips:
  • Clarity is King: Strive for a clear and concise writing style. Avoid overly complex sentences or jargon. A clear and concise writing style ensures your message is understood effectively.
  • Variety is the Spice of Life: Don't be afraid to showcase your vocabulary – but use it strategically. Employ powerful verbs and precise nouns to add depth and sophistication to your writing. However, avoid using overly complex words just to sound fancy. Choose vocabulary that accurately conveys your ideas without sacrificing clarity.
  • Show, Don't Tell: Don't just state your points; provide evidence to support them. Integrate examples, statistics, or case studies to strengthen your analysis and showcase your ability to think critically.
  • Proofread like a Pro: Don't underestimate the power of proofreading! Double-check for typos, grammatical errors, and clarity in your writing. Even minor mistakes can create a negative impression. Taking the time to proofread demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
  • Bonus Tip: While the AWA doesn't explicitly require an "agree" or "disagree" stance, it's often easier to demonstrate your analytical skills by taking a position you can actively support. Just be sure to acknowledge the opposing viewpoint and explain why you find your own argument more persuasive.

    Remember: The AWA is your opportunity to showcase your critical thinking and writing abilities. By following these tips and practicing beforehand, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the argument analysis prompt and craft an essay that leaves a lasting impression on the admissions committee. So, breathe deep, grab your metaphorical pen, and get ready to impress those business schools! 

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