Tackling the Argument Essay on the GRE (How I went from 3 -> 5)

I recently took the GRE without preparing for the AWA and ended up getting a low score than I desired, so as I am preparing for the AWA section. I want to make note of my learnings so that it can aid other who are on a similar journey.

UPDATE: I went from a 3 ->5

Steps to mastering the essay:

Read: Always read the instruction prompt first!!

This way you can lay out your questions? highlight assumptions as you work your way through the paragraph the very first time.

Tackling the prompt: Ask Questions as you read

When tackling this instruction prompt we need to come up with questions that need to be answered.

Things to watch out for:

• proportions mentioned in the argument. (statistical significance)
• error of omission (omitting other reasons)
• Where do the statistics come from? (interested party? — bias studies)

Layout of the Essay:

1. Introduction :
   Within the introduction you need to mention the passage’s conclusion and the arguments used to support the conclusion. End with (To show that these arguments are reasonable several questions need to be answered… If possible briefly describe the flaws you noticed like statistical significance of X, omission of Y)
2. Body 1 (Begin with elaboration…