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The GRE Analytical Writing section can feel like a black box, but it doesn’t have to. Whether you’re tackling the Issue or Argument task, knowing what to expect (and how to prepare) is key to scoring well. In this guide, we’ll walk you through GRE essay prompts, real sample topics, and expert-backed writing strategies to help you boost your score.
We’ll also incorporate insights from real test takers who’ve shared their experiences in forums and threads, giving you a clearer, more tactical approach than what you’ll find on most generic prep sites.
Read: How Long Is the GRE? Test Length, Section Breakdown, and Timing Tips
Overview of the GRE Analytical Writing Section
The Analytical Writing section is the first hurdle on the GRE General Test, and it sets the tone for the rest of your exam. You’ll be asked to complete two timed essays, each designed to test how well you can think critically, construct an argument, and communicate it clearly:
- Issue Task – You’ll be given a broad statement and asked to write a response that takes a position. Your job is to discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree, using logic, reasoning, and relevant examples to make your case.
- Argument Task – Instead of taking a stance, you'll analyze the reasoning behind someone else’s argument. You’ll identify flaws, question assumptions, and evaluate the logic, not the topic itself.
You’ll have 30 minutes per task, and both essays are scored on a scale of 0–6, in half-point increments. These scores are averaged to produce your final Analytical Writing score.
The scoring criteria, used by both human raters and an AI engine, are grounded in four key areas:
- Clear articulation of complex ideas
- Logical organization and transitions
- Effectively developing and supporting your position
- Strong command of grammar, mechanics, and style
High scorers don’t just write well—they think clearly and structure their responses with precision. If your writing reflects sharp reasoning and cohesive argumentation, you’re already ahead of most test takers.
Read: How to Prepare for the GRE Analytical Writing Section
Types of GRE Essay Prompts (Issue vs. Argument)
The GRE Analytical Writing section includes two distinct essay prompts: the Issue Task and the Argument Task. Each measures different thinking and writing skills, so mastering both formats is key to a high score.
The GRE Issue Essay
The GRE Issue essay presents a broad claim about a topic like education, ethics, or society. Your task is to write a response that takes a clear position and supports it with logical reasoning and real-world examples.
This isn't about personal opinion alone. Strong responses demonstrate critical thinking by examining the claim from multiple angles, addressing counterpoints, and exploring the broader implications. For instance, if the prompt suggests that “contemporary life prevents people from developing and supporting deep, meaningful relationships,” a strong essay might acknowledge modern obstacles while arguing that meaningful relationships are still possible and even essential in today’s world.
Other sample prompts from the GRE issue pool include:
- “To understand the most important characteristics of a society, one must study its major cities.”
- “Educational institutions should actively discourage students from pursuing fields with limited job prospects.”
Scorers look for thoughtful reasoning, clear organization, and the ability to describe specific circumstances and show how those examples shape your argument.
The GRE Argument Essay
In contrast, the GRE Argument essay tests your ability to evaluate someone else’s logic, not present your own. You’ll read a short passage (like a memo or editorial) that makes a recommendation or conclusion based on questionable evidence or reasoning.
Your job is to critique the argument, not the topic, and identify flaws in its logic, unsupported assumptions, or missing data. For example, if a city council wants to shut down a jazz music club due to declining attendance, your analysis might question the reliability of the data, whether the survey sampled actual patrons, or whether alternative explanations, like poor marketing, were ignored.
Another typical prompt might cite a highest-rated radio program to justify increased advertising, assuming ratings directly translate to ad effectiveness. Here, you’d challenge the logic and suggest what additional information is needed to strengthen the case.
Strong GRE argument essays avoid injecting personal opinion and instead focus on how well (or poorly) the argument is constructed.
All the Essay Topics You Might See on Test Day
Here’s the good news: every GRE essay prompt you'll see on test day comes from a publicly available pool released by ETS. That means you can practice with the exact same topics the test uses, no guesswork required.
There are two official lists:
Together, these documents make up the full GRE essay topics pool. You won’t know which one you’ll get, but it will come from this list.
And this isn’t just a theory; real test takers on Reddit and GRE forums frequently report getting a prompt word-for-word from the official pool. The takeaway? If you practice writing responses using these topics under timed conditions, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever shows up on your screen.
Don’t waste time on random or outdated prompts. If you’re serious about improving your GRE writing score, start with the source and build your strategy around it.
Sample GRE Essay Prompts and What High-Scoring Responses Look Like
Understanding how to approach real GRE essay prompts is one of the fastest ways to improve. Below are sample tasks, one Issue essay, one Argument essay, along with expert analysis on what a top-tier response should include. These aren't just writing samples, they’re strategy blueprints.
GRE Issue Essay Example
Prompt:
“Educational institutions have a responsibility to dissuade students from pursuing fields of study in which they are unlikely to succeed.”
What a high-scoring response would do:
A strong GRE issue essay would open with a clear, likely-disagreeing thesis, then build a nuanced argument that examines both sides. It might acknowledge that schools should offer guidance, especially in cases where students are unaware of job market realities. But it would push back on the idea of dissuading ambition, arguing that such an approach limits innovation, diversity in disciplines, and personal growth.
A top response would draw on specific circumstances: for instance, students who struggled early in a field but eventually thrived, or the broader consequences of steering too many students away from the arts or humanities. It might also explore relevant examples from scientific research, policy, or education systems that show the impact of over-managing student choices.
What separates a 5.5–6.0 essay is not just polished writing—but its ability to support a position thoughtfully, address counterarguments, and develop and support ideas with meaningful depth.
GRE Argument Essay Example
Prompt:
“A recent study showed that students who took classes online scored higher on practice tests than those in traditional classrooms. Therefore, online learning is more effective.”
What a high-scoring response would do:
This GRE argument essay is filled with logical leaps, and a top scorer would spot them fast. A strong response would open by noting the argument depends on several unstated assumptions: that the study groups were comparable, that practice test scores are a reliable proxy for learning, and that other variables (like student motivation or prior knowledge) were controlled for.
The essay would likely critique the lack of a controlled laboratory study, highlight alternative explanations (e.g., online learners might self-select and be more driven), and challenge the author’s claim that correlation implies causation.
It would also point out missing specific task instructions, such as defining “effectiveness” and considering different circumstances like course type or content difficulty. You might also note that the considerations shaping the decision (like student engagement or socioeconomic context) weren’t addressed.
A 5.5–6.0 essay doesn’t just identify flaws; it’s organized, methodical, and offers recommendations for strengthening the argument, such as collecting broader data or clarifying evaluation metrics.
Expert Writing Strategies from 5.0–6.0 Scorers
Scoring a 5.0+ on the GRE Analytical Writing section isn’t about being a flawless writer; it’s about knowing exactly what the test is evaluating and delivering it efficiently under pressure.
We’ve analyzed dozens of responses from top scorers on Reddit and GRE forums, and pulled out the core strategies they consistently use. Here's how to think like a high scorer:
For the GRE Issue Essay
1. Use a flexible but disciplined structure.
A classic five-paragraph model (intro → two supporting body paragraphs → counterpoint → conclusion) works well, but top scorers adjust it to fit their argument. The goal isn’t symmetry; it’s clarity and flow.
2. Go beyond “agree or disagree.”
The best essays show complexity. Instead of taking a black-and-white stance, high scorers explore trade-offs, exceptions, and specific circumstances where the prompt might or might not hold true.
3. Use real, relevant examples.
Avoid vague hypotheticals. Use contemporary life, scientific research, history, or personal academic experience to ground your points. The more concrete and contextual, the better.
4. Prioritize depth over breadth.
It’s tempting to cram in lots of examples, but top scorers spend time developing and supporting each point fully. That’s what demonstrates reasoning, not just knowledge.
5. Practice with official prompts under pressure.
Every high scorer emphasizes this: stick to the ETS pool, simulate the 30-minute time limit, and review against the actual scoring criteria. This builds both fluency and confidence.
For the GRE Argument Essay
1. Keep your opinion out of it.
You’re not here to agree or disagree with the conclusion; you’re here to analyze how well it’s supported. High scorers treat the prompt like a logic puzzle, not a debate.
2. Identify flawed assumptions quickly.
Most arguments rely on hidden assumptions (e.g., that two groups are comparable, or that correlation = causation). Spotting these and explaining why they’re problematic is essential.
3. Suggest how the argument could be improved.
ETS wants to see not just critique, but constructive analysis. What data is missing? What additional evidence would make the argument stronger or more valid?
4. Group your critiques for clarity.
Rather than listing random flaws, top responses are organized by theme: one paragraph on data gaps, one on flawed comparisons, one on missing definitions, etc. That shows analytical precision.
5. Don’t waste time summarizing the argument.
Jump straight into your analysis. ETS graders already know the prompt; you don’t need to retell it. Focus instead on evaluating it, clearly and logically.
How to Practice Writing GRE Essays Effectively
Improving your score on the GRE Analytical Writing section isn’t just about writing more; it’s about writing smarter. The most effective practice builds core skills over time: idea development, structure, logical analysis, and alignment with ETS scoring criteria.
Here’s a 4-week, expert-backed plan designed to help you write like a 5.0+ scorer:
| Week | Focus | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Foundation: Understand the Tasks | Write 2 timed essays from the GRE Issue Pool and Argument Pool | Start with real prompts so you can build fluency with actual test-day material. Simulate 30-minute time blocks. |
| Week 2 | Structure & Logic | Review top-scoring sample essay responses. Rewrite 1 of your Week 1 essays with stronger reasoning and examples. | Studying model essays trains you to recognize structure, reasoning, and how examples shape high-scoring responses. |
| Week 3 | Self-Diagnosis & Strategy | Grade your own essays using the official ETS scoring criteria. Identify your most common weaknesses (e.g., vague examples, poor transitions). | Learning to self-assess builds independence and helps you internalize what graders are looking for. |
| Week 4 | Expert Feedback & Revision | Submit 1–2 essays for feedback from a GRE coach on Leland. Revise based on critique and reflect on what score range you’re targeting. | Personalized, expert feedback accelerates improvement. You’ll learn exactly how to bridge the gap from a 3.5 to a 5.0+. |
Read: GRE Study Plan & Schedule: 1, 3, & 6-Month Templates (From a Pro Tutor)
What Makes a High-Scoring GRE Essay?
Based on ETS scoring rubrics and expert analysis, the top GRE essays:
- Clearly state and support your position
- Use relevant examples (e.g., scientific research, historical events, contemporary life scenarios)
- Maintain a clear structure with logical flow
- Use precise language and varied sentence structure
- Stay on topic and address the specific task instructions
Pro tip: When reviewing your essays, ask yourself: Did I explain my reasoning for the position? Did I address alternative explanations? Did I focus on the main points?
Self-Review Checklist
Before moving on from a practice essay, ask yourself:
- Have I clearly stated my position or thesis?
- Did I explain my reasoning for the position, not just my opinion?
- Have I used relevant examples that truly support my argument?
- Did I consider at least one counterpoint or limitation?
- Does the essay have a logical structure with clean transitions?
- Am I addressing exactly what the prompt asked me to do?
Read: What Is a Good GRE Score? Percentiles, Targets, and What Schools Want
Expert Tips to Boost Your GRE Writing Score
If you're aiming for a 5.0 or higher, you can't rely on general writing advice. The GRE Analytical Writing section has its own logic, expectations, and scoring quirks, and high scorers train for that specifically. Here’s what actually moves the needle:
Practice What You’ll Be Tested On
Don’t waste time on random writing prompts. Every essay you’ll see on test day comes from the official GRE AWA topics pool, so use it exclusively. Train with real prompts, under timed conditions, and you'll walk into the test already familiar with the format, tone, and topic types.
Pro tip: Students on Reddit frequently report getting prompts straight from the pool, sometimes word for word. Practicing from it isn’t optional. It’s strategic.
Build a Playbook, Not a Template
Top scorers don’t memorize essays; they develop repeatable thinking strategies. That means knowing how to break down a prompt, outline in 3 minutes, generate examples fast, and adapt to unexpected twists in language or framing.
The goal isn’t to write the same essay every time; it’s to have a framework that can flex across any prompt. If you’re blanking during practice, the issue usually isn’t content. It’s a lack of structure.
Get Feedback from Someone Who Knows the Rubric
You can’t fix what you can’t see. Most test-takers plateau around a 3.5–4.5 because they don’t get targeted feedback. A friend who’s “a good writer” isn’t enough; you need someone who knows how ETS scores and what separates a 4 from a 6.
Working with a Leland coach gives you pro-level guidance on things like reasoning depth, paragraph structure, and whether your examples are actually doing the heavy lifting.
Reverse Engineer the Score Bands
Reading high-scoring essays is useful, but reading medium-scoring ones is more useful. Why? Because you’ll start to see what’s missing. Compare a 4.0 to a 5.5 side by side and ask:
- Where is the structure tighter?
- Where is the logic more developed?
- Where is the reasoning more precise?
That’s how you move from “this is fine” to “this is clearly a 6.”
Use Scoring Tools Strategically
ETS’s ScoreItNow tool uses the same e-rater AI that grades real exams. It’s not perfect, but it gives you baseline score estimates. Use it to track progress, not as your only feedback source. Better yet, combine it with real feedback from a coach or peer who understands GRE expectations.
Read: GRE Score Percentiles, Scoring Scale, & Averages Explained
Final Thoughts: Mastering the GRE Analytical Writing Section
Success on the GRE Analytical Writing section doesn’t require perfect prose; it requires clear thinking, smart structure, and lots of practice writing with real GRE writing prompts. Whether you’re preparing for the issue essay or the argument essay, focus on developing your ideas logically and supporting them with specific examples.
Want expert feedback on your essays? Work with a GRE writing coach here. Also, check out our GRE exam prep bootcamp and free events and group classes for more strategic GRE insights.
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FAQs
How many essay prompts are in the GRE essay topics pool?
- The official pool includes over 200 GRE issue essay topics and 150+ GRE argument essay prompts.
What’s the best way to study GRE writing prompts?
- Use the official GRE AWA topics, simulate real test conditions, and analyze your responses against ETS scoring criteria.
How is the GRE Analytical Writing section scored?
- Essays are scored from 0–6 in half-point increments. You’ll get one combined score based on both the issue task and argument task.
Should I memorize essay responses?
- No. Instead, learn how to break down essay prompts, build a strong structure, and support arguments with logical examples.
Can writing well on the GRE help with admissions?
- Yes. Strong GRE writing scores can help offset weaker test scores in other areas and demonstrate your communication skills.
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