Preparing for the GRE exam is a tough nut to crack. However, we've got you covered. In this article, you can find the GRE Analytical Writing Section practice questions, some tips and tricks to analyse the questions, and more. You can also look for GRE analytical writing section mock test and GRE analytical section practice tests, so, you can have a clear idea of what type of questions you are going to get in the GRE test 2025.
GRE or Graduate Record Examination is one of the most popular standardized tests to study abroad. The GRE consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections. It is important that you start preparing for the exam before completing the GRE registration process. Remember, practicing regularly helps a candidate develop and improve writing skills which is important for the GRE AWA section. Here we will discuss about GRE analytical writing section and tips to score well in it. Also, we have mentioned GRE Analytical Writing sample questions for regular practice before appearing in the exam.
About GRE Analytical Writing Section
The GRE Analytical Writing section aims to measure the test taker's ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support ideas with relevant reasons and examples, examine claims and accompanying evidence, sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion and control the elements of standard written English.
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In the Analytical Writing section, there will be two separately timed essays. For each essay, you will be given 30 minutes to address a specified topic. For topics around 'Analyze an Issue,' candidates would be required to write an essay in which they would respond to a brief statement over an issue of general interest. For topics around 'Analyze an Argument,' candidates would be required to compose an essay in which they would be required to analyze a paragraph-length argument.
For the benefit of our readers, we have provided downloadable mock GRE Analytical Writing questions for candidates wanting to practice before the GRE Exam. Through the GRE Analytical Sample questions, candidates can self-evaluate their preparedness for the GRE Analytical Writing section of the GRE exam.
GRE Writing Sample Questions
Essay Topic – 1
The following appeared as a letter to the editor from the owner of a skate shop in Central Plaza.
"Two years ago the city council voted to prohibit skateboarding in Central Plaza. They claimed that skateboard users were responsible for litter and vandalism that were keeping other visitors from coming to the plaza. In the past two years, however, there has been only a small increase in the number of visitors to Central Plaza, and litter and vandalism are still problematic. Skateboarding is permitted in Monroe Park, however, and there is no problem with litter or vandalism there. In order to restore Central Plaza to its former glory, then, we recommend that the city lift its prohibition on skateboarding in the plaza."
Write a response in which you discuss what questions would need to be answered in order to decide whether the recommendation and the argument on which it is based are reasonable. Be sure to explain how the answers to these questions would help to evaluate the recommendation.
Answer: GRE Sample Essay 11
Essay Topic – 2
The following appeared in a health newsletter.
"Nosinia is an herb that many users report to be as effective as prescription medications at fighting allergy symptoms. Researchers recently compared Nosinia to a placebo in 95 men and women with seasonal allergies to ragweed pollen. Participants in the study reported that neither Nosinia nor the placebo offered significant relief. However, for the most severe allergy symptoms, the researchers reported that Nosinia was more effective than the placebo in providing relief. Furthermore, at the end of the study, participants given Nosinia were more likely than participants given a placebo to report feeling healthier. We, therefore, recommend using Nosinia to help with your severe allergy symptoms.”
Write a response in which you discuss what questions would need to be answered in order to decide whether the recommendation and the argument on which it is based are reasonable. Be sure to explain how the answers to these questions would help to evaluate the recommendation.
Answer: GRE Sample Essay 15
Answer Key
Q: What are the various sections included in the syllabus of GRE exam?
Q: Is it easy to appear for GRE exam?
GRE is a tough exam to crack. Not every one can achieve 340 out 340 in GRE or close to that number. The GRE exam evaluates a candidate's analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning skills. The difficulty level can vary based on individual strengths and weaknesses.
Students with a mathematical background may have an advantage when solving quantitative questions. Conversely, students proficient in English language may find it easier to tackle analytical writing questio
Q: What is GRE Syllabus?
GRE Exam Syllabus covers multiple topics to asses Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing skills of students. Written text, English vocabulary, comprehension, basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, argument analysis, and written communication skills are some popular topics in the exam. All these topics are directly related to English, Mathematics, Physics, and other tradiational subjects.
Q: How long does Hertfordshire University take to reply?
After applying to Hertfordshire University UK, the applicants are going to receive an initial decision about their application within 2-3 working days. After the submission of the application and documents, the applicants are required to pay their tuition deposit. Then, complete the Sponsorship interview and the financial declaration. International students are required to pay a deposit of £5,000 before registration. The balance can be paid in line with the liability dates related to the year and entry of the semester.
Q: Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:
English Language Test | Score |
---|---|
IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section |
The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:
English Language Test | Score |
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 72 to 114 |
PTE | Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section |
Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities
Q: What is the acceptance rate of Hertfordshire University?
The University of Hertfordshire has a 70% acceptance rate, making it easy to get into and having simple admissions requirements. Academic achievement, English language proficiency, references, and many other factors are taken into consideration while making the selection. At Hertfordshire, some programs may require four to five years of experience. To enroll in any programme at Hertfordshire University, students must meet the qualifying requirements. In addition, students with average performance can showcase their relevant experience or extracurricular activities participation to increase their selection probability.
Q: Is Essex University good for an MBA?
Essex University is among the top business and management universities in the UK that offer quality education to international students. It ranks at 61 in the UK by the 'Complete University Guide' for Business and Management studies. The university offers an MBA programme at a low cost for international students. Applicants can complete the first year of education of the MBA programme from INR 17 L to INR 27 L. Therefore, yes the university is good for an MBA in the UK.
Check the list of Top Ranked MBA Universities in the UK
Q: What is the cost of an Essex MBA?
The University of Essex MBA cost is vary from INR 17 L to INR 27 L for first-year. The university offers an affordable MBA programme to international students. The table below includes the complete first year cost of studying MBA program:
Fees components | Amount (for 1 year) |
---|---|
Tuition & fees | INR 27,67,000 |
Hostel & Meals | INR 6,59,321 |
Insurance | INR 85,888 |
Total approximate fees | INR 35,12,209 |
Also read: MBA in the UK Cost
(Candidates can download the GRE Analytical Sample guide for similar topics and also for sample responses for the topics provided above.)

Raj Vimal has experience of 7+ years in SEO Content Writing, which includes 5+ years in the Ed-Tech industry. He has written articles about studying abroad, especially in the USA, UK, and other English-speaking coun... Read Full Bio
The GRE exam portion is divided into three sections: Analytical Writing section, Quantitative Reasoning section, and Verbal Reasoning section. However, these categories are made up of multiple topics which are tested during the entire duration of the Graduate Record Examination. Note that, this syllabus is different from GRE subject test syllabus.