How to Ace the GRE Issue Essay?

The GRE Issue Essay tests the ability of the test-taker to think on the spot and organize thoughts in a manner that could be communicated effectively through words. It also examines sentence-forming capabilities, grammatical competency, and command over the English language.

Being able to communicate information and being able to communicate content in an organized fashion are two different skill sets, and the Issue essay focuses on the latter. This task focuses on the test-taker's take on the subject provided. However, it is to be noted that the test-taker must provide opinions only on the questions that have been asked instead of writing about everything they know related to the topic. Wandering away from the topic at hand gives the impression that the test-taker cannot focus on what is important or follow direct instructions.

The test-taker can agree or disagree with the topic as long as they explain their standpoint. Providing proof and pieces of evidence to assert the opinion will guarantee a higher score than just mentioning the opinion. These proofs and pieces of evidence can be taken from personal experiences, books they have read, or other media as long as it is relevant to the information they are trying to convey. Understand that there is no perfect or right answer to this question. The grades will entirely depend on the reasoning skill and the level of articulation the test-taker has in delivering an instruction-specific answer.

What is a GRE Issue Essay?

• The GRE Issue Essay prompt is a statement followed by a list of instructions on which views to include in the essay.
• Essay writing does not require prior knowledge of any topic and is based on the test-taker's perception, views, and opinions on the given topic.
• The test-taker must create and support their argument with evidence.
• The test-taker will be required to write an essay stating arguments either for or against the statements provided.
• The essay can also deal with the degree to which the test-taker agrees or disagrees with the topic.
• Each argument should be presented with enough logical reasoning and other evidence or examples that the test-taker can write.
• The test also assesses language and organizational skills.
• Note that there is no "correct side". The test-taker can opt for the side to which they feel they could do justice.
• Address only what has been asked. Do not write an essay that is all over the place.
• The test-taker can relate their viewpoint with their personal experiences, or experiences of others, or something they have encountered.
• The time allotted for this section is 30 minutes, scored on a scale of 6.

Tips to Ace the GRE Issue Essay

The GRE Issue Essay requires a lot of practice and preparation based on published topics before taking the test. Apart from managing time to write the entire essay within 30 minutes, one should also focus on providing a well-structured answer for a high score.

• Go over the ETS GRE Issue essay pool that has the list of topics that can appear in the test.
• Understand the given issue topic and evaluate the perspectives mentioned implicitly and explicitly.
• Create a list of pros and cons for each argument. Then, choose the side with the most points to strengthen the essay with each relevant point.
• Formulate a clear thesis statement summarizing the presented perspective. This statement should steer the focus of the test-taker's essay and be cited in the conclusion.
• Brainstorm examples supporting the claim that is made.
• Provide real or hypothetical examples to support the perspective that has been chosen.
• Develop an outline according to a standard format, such as a paragraph each for the introduction and conclusion, along with 3-4 body paragraphs.
• Write the essay by briefly summarizing the chosen side and the reason behind that choice. Then, announce the main points supporting the claim with the relevant examples, checking for logical connectivity.
• Proofread it to minimize errors and grammatical mistakes.

Pool of Analytical Writing Prompts

ETS has published a list of 152 prompts along with the instructions. Test-takers can review the list here. The list can be perused to understand the questions and practice as many topics as possible. They can be used as a mock test for time management.

GRE Issue Essay Time Management

Time Management for the Issue Essay is critical, given that there is only a 30-minute window to write the essay. They have to figure out the different perspectives, gather evidence and information, and create an essay from scratch. Time is the biggest variant test-takers will have to prepare for.

Ideally, one should follow the mnemonic RITE, which can be expanded into Read, Ideate, Type, and Edit. In this method, one can follow clear time divisions to create the perfect essay and still have time to edit.

It is recommended that the test-taker spends only 2 minutes reading the content provided, 5 minutes brainstorming ideas and perspectives, 20 minutes typing out the notes from the scratch paper in the form of an essay, and a final 3 minutes editing the work and removing all grammatical inaccuracies and other inconsistencies in the language.

Do's in GRE Issue Essay

• Test-takers should clearly state their position on the issue. Their stance should be evident from the beginning and consistently supported throughout the essay.
• Introduction is always one of the most important sections in an essay. Provide a captivating introduction that acquaints the reader with the chosen side.
• Provide explanations and reasons for every claim that is made.
• Construct the essay clearly and concisely with logical connectivity among the paragraphs.
• Use clear and concise language. Ensure that ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next, incorporating transition words and phrases to guide the reader.
• Use strong points that establish opinions and specific, relevant examples that reinforce that opinion.
• In the conclusion, write a line or two supporting the opposing view; this shows emotional and intellectual maturity and will result in a better grade. But reinforce the initial viewpoint at the end.
• Practice, practice, and more practice is the only key to success. A minimum of three practice essays is required just to get the feel of this section. More practice would help in perfecting writing and timing skills.
• If time allows, take a moment to review the essay for any grammatical mistakes, awkward wording, or ambiguous arguments. A well-crafted essay can greatly enhance their overall score.

Dont's in the GRE Issue Essay

• Never waive from the points that are being made. This will give the impression that the student is confused and unsure about what they are discussing.
• Choose the side that will be supported carefully and stick to it. Do not keep jumping from side to side or try having it both ways, as it will lead to a lack of clarity and time.
• Never give generalized examples or use first-person pronouns unless quoting a personal experience as an example.
• Avoid superficial arguments that lack depth. Instead, provide specific examples, evidence, and reasoning to support the claims.
• Avoid jumping between ideas without transitions.
• Avoid rushing through the writing process. Allocate time for brainstorming, outlining, and reviewing work. These tips, hand in hand with continuous practice and dedication, will help the student score a perfect six in this section.