GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment AWA

The AWA includes two 30 minute sections (a total of 60 minutes for the writing section). You are only allowed 30 minutes for each section. You are not allowed to allot the 60 minutes to your liking. For example, you will not be permitted to spend 20 minutes on one sub-section and 40 minutes on the other. You must use the complete 30 minutes for each sub-section. If you finish early, then re-read your essay and make any necessary corrections. Once the 30 minutes are over, you must start the next section. You are not allowed to go back to the first section once the second half-hour has begun. The first half hour of the writing section is spent on the Analysis of an Issue and the second half hour is spent on the Analysis of an Argument.
Analysis of an Issue:

• In this section you must analyze an issue that is presented to you.
• You are expected to explain your viewpoint on the subject presented or provide your opinion on a controversial issue.
• You must use reasons or examples from real life experiences, observations, or past reading material to support your position on the issue.
• This section measures your ability to investigate the complexities of an issue and your ability to take a stance.

Analysis of an Argument:

• In this section you must analyze the rationale behind a given argument.
• The main goals are to:
  • Evaluate the argument by critiquing it.
  • Discuss the logical flaws of the argument.
  • Provide facts that may strengthen or refute the argument.
  • Provide alternative explanations or contradictory examples that might weaken the conclusion.
• This section measures your ability to formulate a suitable and practical critique of an argument using a specific type of reasoning.