What is the Analyze an Issue task I will write in the GRE Analytical Writing section?
In the GRE Analyze an Issue task, you respond to a brief statement on an issue of general interest by writing an essay. You adopt a position and develop and support it. The task usually allows around 30 minutes, so check the official ETS page for the latest format.
The Analyze an Issue task asks you to write an essay in response to a short statement on an issue of general interest. It tests your ability to think critically and express your thoughts in writing.
Task Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Task | Analyze an Issue |
| Time | Around 30 minutes |
| What you write | An essay responding to a brief statement on a general-interest issue |
| What it assesses | Critical thinking and written expression |
What You Need to Do
- Read the issue statement, which can be viewed from several different angles.
- Adopt a position on the issue.
- Develop and support your position in the essay.
My Advice
Practise planning your position in a couple of minutes, then spend the rest developing it with clear reasons and examples. Test formats can change, so confirm the current Analytical Writing structure on the official GRE page.
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