The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is a crucial component of the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). It measures your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas effectively. This guide provides an in-depth exploration of the AWA section, including its structure, scoring, strategies for preparation, and tips for writing a compelling essay.
Understanding the GMAT AWA
Purpose and Importance
The AWA section assesses your ability to:
- Analyze arguments.
- Critically evaluate information.
- Communicate your analysis effectively.
Structure of the AWA Section
The AWA section consists of a single essay prompt, which requires you to analyze an argument. You have 30 minutes to complete this task.
Argument Analysis
- Prompt: You will be presented with a short argument. Your task is to critique the argument by identifying its logical flaws and discussing how it could be strengthened.
- Length: Typically, the argument is 200-300 words long.
Scoring
Scoring Scale
The AWA is scored on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments. Two independent readers score your essay, and the final score is an average of their ratings.
Scoring Criteria
- Quality of Analysis:
- Ability to identify and articulate key elements of the argument.
- Depth and accuracy of your analysis.
- Organization:
- Logical structure.
- Clear progression of ideas.
- Effective use of paragraphs.
- Development and Support:
- Use of relevant examples.
- Adequate explanation of your points.
- Language Use:
- Clarity and precision.
- Grammar and mechanics.
- Varied sentence structure and vocabulary.
Preparing for the AWA
Understanding the Prompt
Types of Arguments
- Causal: Suggests that one event causes another.
- Predictive: Makes a prediction based on assumptions.
- Value Judgment: Asserts a value or judgment.
- Recommendation: Proposes a course of action.
Common Logical Fallacies
- Hasty Generalization: Making broad conclusions based on limited evidence.
- False Cause: Assuming that because two events occurred together, one caused the other.
- Weak Analogy: Comparing two unlike things as if they are similar.
- Circular Reasoning: Restating the argument in different words instead of providing evidence.
- Ad Hominem: Attacking the person instead of the argument.
Developing Analytical Skills
Critical Reading
- Practice reading complex texts critically.
- Identify the main argument and supporting points.
- Note any assumptions or logical flaws.
Practice Analysis
- Regularly practice writing critiques of various arguments.
- Focus on identifying logical flaws and providing suggestions for improvement.
Writing Skills
Structuring Your Essay
- Introduction:
- Briefly summarize the argument.
- State your thesis – whether you find the argument logically sound or flawed.
- Body Paragraphs:
- Each paragraph should focus on a specific flaw.
- Use clear topic sentences.
- Provide evidence and examples to support your analysis.
- Conclusion:
- Summarize your main points.
- Restate your thesis in light of the analysis.
Developing Your Writing
- Practice writing essays within the 30-minute time limit.
- Focus on clarity, coherence, and conciseness.
- Seek feedback from peers or mentors to improve your writing.
Strategies for Success
Effective Analysis
Identifying Flaws
- Assumptions: Identify any unstated assumptions the argument relies on.
- Evidence: Evaluate the quality and relevance of the evidence provided.
- Alternative Explanations: Consider other possible explanations or solutions.
Strengthening the Argument
- Additional Evidence: Suggest additional evidence that would make the argument more convincing.
- Clarifying Assumptions: Propose ways to clarify or support the assumptions.
- Addressing Counterarguments: Consider potential counterarguments and how they could be addressed.
Time Management
Planning Your Essay
- Spend the first 5 minutes reading the prompt and planning your essay.
- Allocate 20 minutes to writing the essay.
- Reserve the last 5 minutes for reviewing and editing.
Staying Focused
- Stick to your outline to ensure a logical flow.
- Avoid spending too much time on any single point.
- Keep an eye on the time to ensure you complete your essay.
Sample AWA Prompts and Responses
Sample Prompt 1
Argument
“The following appeared in a memorandum from the manager of KNOW radio station: ‘Several factors indicate that KNOW radio can increase its audience by changing its broadcasting format from rock-and-roll music to a continuous news format. A national survey indicates that the number of people who listen to rock-and-roll music on the radio is decreasing, while the number of people who listen to news radio is increasing. Also, the number of older people who listen to our radio station is increasing, and older people are more likely to listen to news than to rock-and-roll. Moreover, KNOW radio’s advertising revenue has been declining for three years, and switching to a news format will attract more advertisers.'”
Sample Analysis
The argument that KNOW radio can increase its audience by switching to a continuous news format is flawed due to several key assumptions and logical gaps.
Introduction:
The memorandum from the manager of KNOW radio station suggests changing the broadcasting format from rock-and-roll music to continuous news to increase the audience and attract more advertisers. While the argument seems plausible at first glance, it is based on several flawed assumptions and lacks compelling evidence.
Body Paragraphs:
Assumption about National Trends:
The argument relies on a national survey indicating a decline in rock-and-roll listeners and an increase in news listeners. However, the national trend may not reflect the preferences of KNOW radio’s specific audience. Without localized data, it is unreasonable to assume that the same trends apply to KNOW radio’s listeners.
Assumption about Older Listeners:
The argument assumes that the increasing number of older listeners at KNOW radio correlates with a preference for news over rock-and-roll. This is a broad generalization. The station should conduct a survey of its older listeners to determine their actual preferences before making programming changes.
Decline in Advertising Revenue:
The decline in advertising revenue is attributed to the current format, but the argument does not consider other potential factors, such as economic conditions or ineffective marketing strategies. Switching to a news format without addressing these factors may not result in increased revenue.
Alternative Explanation:
The argument fails to consider alternative ways to attract more listeners and advertisers, such as improving the quality of rock-and-roll programming or incorporating diverse music genres. These alternatives should be explored before making a significant format change.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the argument presented by the manager of KNOW radio is unconvincing due to several unsupported assumptions and logical gaps. To strengthen the argument, localized listener preferences should be studied, other factors affecting advertising revenue should be considered, and alternative solutions should be explored.
Sample Prompt 2
Argument
“The following appeared in a letter to the editor of a local newspaper: ‘In order to attract more visitors to the downtown area, the city should implement a series of events and festivals throughout the year. Such events have been successful in neighboring cities, drawing large crowds and boosting local businesses. By following this example, our downtown area will experience similar benefits.'”
Sample Analysis
The suggestion to implement events and festivals in the downtown area to attract more visitors and boost local businesses is based on several assumptions that need further examination.
Introduction:
The letter to the editor proposes that the city should host events and festivals to draw more visitors to the downtown area, citing the success of similar initiatives in neighboring cities. While the idea appears promising, the argument contains several assumptions that undermine its validity.
Body Paragraphs:
Assumption about Similarity:
The argument assumes that what worked for neighboring cities will work for this city as well. However, the demographics, interests, and economic conditions of the cities might differ significantly. Detailed research on the local population’s preferences and needs is necessary before implementing such events.
Success Measurement:
The argument claims that events and festivals have been successful in neighboring cities but does not define what constitutes success. Are we measuring success by attendance, revenue, or business growth? Clear criteria for success should be established and backed by relevant data.
Implementation Costs:
The argument overlooks the costs and logistical challenges of organizing events and festivals. Without a detailed cost-benefit analysis, it is unclear whether the potential benefits outweigh the expenses involved.
Impact on Local Businesses:
The argument assumes that increased foot traffic will directly benefit local businesses. However, not all businesses might benefit equally, and some might face increased competition or disruptions. A survey of local business owners could provide insights into their perspectives and needs.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while hosting events and festivals could potentially attract more visitors to the downtown area, the argument relies on several unsupported assumptions. To make a more compelling case, the city should conduct thorough research on local preferences, clearly define success metrics, and perform a cost-benefit analysis. Additionally, engaging with local businesses to understand their needs and concerns would strengthen the proposal.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Misunderstanding the Argument
Carefully Read the Prompt
- Ensure you fully understand the argument before beginning your analysis.
- Identify the main claim and the supporting evidence.
Overlooking Key Assumptions
Identifying Assumptions
- Look for unstated assumptions that the argument relies on.
- Question whether these assumptions are reasonable and supported by evidence.
Lack of Specificity
Providing Specific Examples
- Use specific examples and evidence to support your analysis.
- Avoid vague statements and generalizations.
Poor Organization
Structuring Your Essay
- Use a clear and logical structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and flows logically to the next.
Inadequate Time Management
Planning and Reviewing
- Allocate time for planning your essay and reviewing your work.
- Practice writing essays within the 30-minute time limit to improve your time management skills.
Tips for Writing a Compelling AWA Essay
Introduction
Summarize the Argument
- Briefly summarize the argument in your own words.
- Clearly state your thesis – whether you find the argument logically sound or flawed.
Body Paragraphs
Focus on One Flaw Per Paragraph
- Each paragraph should focus on a single flaw in the argument.
- Use clear topic sentences to introduce each flaw.
Provide Evidence and Examples
- Support your analysis with specific examples and evidence.
- Explain how the evidence relates to the flaw you are discussing.
Conclusion
Summarize Your Analysis
- Summarize the main points of your analysis.
- Restate your thesis in light of the analysis.
Language and Style
Use Clear and Precise Language
- Avoid overly complex sentences and jargon.
- Aim for clarity and precision in your writing.
Vary Your Sentence Structure
- Use a variety of sentence structures to maintain reader interest.
- Avoid repetitive phrasing.
Grammar and Mechanics
Proofread Your Work
- Allocate time to proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors.
- Ensure your essay is free of mechanical errors.