Subsequent Attempts: Skip AWA as a Stamina Strategy?

Question

Was wondering something today. I think a factor in my poor V performance was that my mind was fatigued by the time I got to V, especially since it was late in the day. My score was an all time low..even worse than the first of my 12 practice CATs. I put a lot of effort into the AWA and got a tentative 5.

If I decided to re-take...is it possible to spend say 5 minutes writing on the first...click finish...move directly to Issue...spend another 5 minutes then click finish...take your 10 minute break then move right into Q?

This way I would spend as little as time as possible on AWA and save stamina for Q/V. I am assuming that since I got a 5 that any subsequent scores really have little impact... Any thought appreciated...

Av · Answer

I'm not sure how schools would view it, but I personally would not do this.

cul3s · Answer

I wouldn't do it.
I also don't know how schools would view it, but there's a potential they might (or not) look at it as if you're 'gaming' the system.
Even if you score better, they might think it's because you had an advantage.

phoenix09 · Answer

Good points, it probably would look like you were gaming the test. I just get this feeling the schools don't take the AWA seriously.

What about of producing enough to get say a 4..I think that could be done in 15 minutes,,,,

BlindVision · Answer

I would suggest including the AWA in your practice tests... this should help you build the needed stamina. My understanding is that AdComs do look at your AWA to gauge your writing proficiency; it may not have a heavy weight as your overall GMAT score but they do look/read the AWA. I wouldn't take any chances gaming the test because it may raise eyebrows.

Good Luck,

Good Luck,

pleonasm · Answer

Skipping the AWA will be a foolish mistake. The schools will definitely look at the AWA and a 'No Score' or 'zero' comes out as a big red flag. It also reflects on your personality that you didn't pay attention to that section. When you get that stellar GMAT score and probably get a ding from one of your dream schools you'll then wonder what the heck went wrong. It could have been that AWA. Please don't do this. If the AWA is a drain on your performance just do the minimal you can do and incorporate AWA into your practice tests. Take your test at the 8 AM slot (if there is one available) and then make the maximum use of the optional breaks on test day.

phoenix09 · Answer

Yeah..with further consideration, this does sound like it would do more harm than good. I think the best thing is to practice CATS with AWA, and schedule exam in the early AM. I am starting to understand why all the morning slots at Pearsons were booked and I was the only one there in the late afternoon.....

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Subsequent Attempts: Skip AWA as a Stamina Strategy?

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