GRE Writing Test

The GRE writing test is designed to measure your analytical writing skills. Success on the writing test requires good critical thinking skills, and a disciplined and organized approach to writing a position paper. This portion of the test will require you to write two essays.

You are allocated 45 minutes to write the first essay in which you need to take and defend a position on a selected subject. Your grade does not depend on the position you take. Instead, it depends on you clearly and concisely express your point of view. It is important that you spend time before you start writing to develop a plan for your essay. An introductory paragraph, 2 to 3 paragraphs to develop your argument, and a final paragraph to draw your conclusion is the optimum paragraph for this essay.

You are allocate 30 minutes to write the second essay. This essay requires you to crtique an argument which is presented to you. Because you need to respond to someone else's position, it is more constrained in structure. Success requires you to analyze the argument in detail. Determine what assumptions the argument depends on. Figure out alternative positions and examples. Analyze how to make the argument better. Itemize what evidence is missing.

The GRE writing test uses a custom word processor developed by ETS. This is done so that knowledge of the word processor will not result in an unfair advantage for some of the people taking the test. The word processor includes the basic major functions that you might require (such as cut and paste type functions).

You can increase your score on the GRE writing test through advance preparation and practice. This type of practice can help you better understand what is expected, and how to better organize a written argument. These are learned skills, and additional practice can provide you with a substantial advantage.