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GMAT Analytical Writing: All About the GMAT Essay and How to Prepare For It

Yup, the rumors are true: you’ll encounter a 30-minute GMAT analytical writing section on test day. But while analytical writing can seem tough at first, finding out exactly what’s expected and how to attack it for a maximum score will do a lot to make the GMAT essay feel manageable! In this post, we’ll take a look at what you need to know to master the GMAT AWA.

Table of Contents

Introduction to gmat analytical writing, what to expect for gmat analytical writing.

• How to Approach the GMAT AWA (Strategy and Tips)

Breakdown by Section

Example gmat essays, scoring for gmat analytical writing, gmat awa and business school.

You may be thinking: why on earth would the GMAT even want to test my writing skills? In the modern global business world, you will always have contacts whom you know primarily through writing (email, reports, publications, etc.). Similarly, many people important for your advancement will meet you the first time through your writing. You need to be able to make a strong first impression in your writing, through the arguments you present.

On your GMAT writing assignment, the test will present an argument, often in the context of a newspaper editorial or the statement of a company. The nature of this argument will generally allow you to argue for either side, and the side you choose does not affect your score. You will have 30 minutes to read the prompt and construct your essay. Later, your essay will be graded by both a computer and a person on a scale of 0 to 6; your AWA score will be an average of these two scores.

Don’t forget the main purpose of this task: to measure your GMAT analytical writing skills. This means that whether you argue for or against the argument, your job is to analyze the argument. You’ll need to consider questions such as:

• What are the assumptions of the argument, and how strong are they?
• What sort of facts would strengthen or weaken the argument?
• Are there alternative explanations or perspectives that would explain the facts in question better?

Both the computer and the human reviewer are looking for particular elements in a good GMAT AWA essay. In short: a successful Analysis of an Argument essay will be clear and cogently argued; it will present the individual critiques in a logically consistent order; it will identify all the points in need of consideration, and it will use word choice and variety of syntax to effectively communicate.

A lot of students wonder: Are spelling, grammar, and punctuation important on the GMAT analytical writing? Will they make or break your score? They are pretty important—luckily, your GMAT SC correction practice will serve you well in this regard. But you can’t leave these elements up to chance: practice correcting your essays (more on this below), and always, always leave a few minutes at the end of the section to proofread your essay.

Remember, you’ll only have 30 minutes for the entire essay. This means that, while you’ll spend the bulk of your time actually writing, you should still set aside around 3-5 minutes at the beginning of the task for planning, then leave another 3-5 minutes at the end to read over and make minor corrections to what you’ve written. These seemingly small actions can have a big impact on your score! But practicing—and following the instructions—is key to mastering the pacing here.

AWA Directions

Throughout the GMAT, knowing the directions ahead of time gives you an edge because you don’t have to spend time reading them on test day. This advantage is compounded on the AWA section because the instructions are substantial: it’s a lot to read, so it’s that much less to read on test day. Moreover, the “post-argument” paragraph enumerates skills that will be important to practice and master, so you walk into test day armed and ready with your “analysis toolbox” prepared.

With that in mind, here are the directions that precede every AWA argument task:

The first bullet point tells us: a good AWA essay is well-organized, has a natural flow from point to point, and is clear and unambiguous about what it is saying. Those are all important points to keep in mind.

The second bullet point reminds us: what they present will be, in all likelihood, a flawed argument, but what you must create is a cogent and clear argument, and that will necessarily involve providing clear and relevant support. It’s not enough simply to assert something badly: you must provide justification for what you are saying.

The final bullet points may appear enigmatic: “control the elements of standard written English.” What does that mean?

Well, first of all, it means no grammar or syntax mistakes . It also means varying the sentence structure —some simple sentences (noun + verb), some with two independent clauses (noun + verb + and/but/or + noun + verb), some with dependent clauses, some with infinitive phrases, some with participial phrases, etc. Finally, it means choosing the right words and the right tone : the tone should be skeptical toward the prompt argument and persuasive toward the points you are making, but not arrogant or dogmatic in any way.

The following paragraph always appears after the argument prompt. This is the real meat-and-potatoes of the AWA directions:

How to Approach the GMAT AWA

Once you know what to expect from GMAT analytical writing, it’s time to start implementing strategies that will help you maximize your score on this section. Keep coming back to these throughout your GMAT prep to ensure that you’re staying on track and pushing your GMAT writing to the next level!

Strategies for the AWA

Here are the tips that will support your success on the GMAT’s AWA:

• Recognize Unstated Assumptions : Recognizing assumptions is essential for the Critical Reasoning questions, and it will also serve you well on attacking the prompt argument in your AWA.
• Know the Directions : This a matter not only of knowing what they say but also, more importantly, understanding the various options you have for analyzing the argument. This list of analytical strategies is always given in the paragraph that follows the prompt argument. It’s important to get familiar with this “analytical toolbox”, so it is yours to employ on test day.
• Recognize the Common Flaw Patterns : GMAT AWA prompt arguments often contain one of six types of flaws . Learn to spot these patterns, so you are ready on test day.
• Plan Before You Write : This is obvious to some test-takers. Your first task is to find objections to and flaws in the prompt argument. Create a list of flaws. Then, select the 2-4 of those that are most relevant, that would be the most persuasive talking points. Once you have your list of insightful flaws, then you are ready to write.
• Paragraph #1: State that the prompt argument is flawed. Briefly enumerate the flaws you will examine, in the order that you will discuss them.
• Paragraph #2 (or #2 & #3): Sticking to that same order, analyze each flaw in detail, explaining your reasoning why each is a serious weakness of the argument.
• Last Paragraph: Suggest improvements, which are the reverse of the flaws (i.e. “This argument would be considerably stronger if it did such-and-such to remove flaw #2.”). Close by restating that is it a weak argument.
• Simple sentence, one independent clause: Jack went to town .
• Sentence with two independent clauses: Jill went to town and Jack stayed home . (Two independent clauses can be joined by “and”, “or”, “but”, “yet”, “so”, etc.)
• Sentence with an independent clause and one (or more) dependent clauses: Jack went to the town where Jill lives .
• Sentence with an infinitive phrase: Jack went to that town to see Jill .
• Sentence with a participial phrase: Hoping to see Jack, Jill went to town .

A good essay should not have two sentences in a row with the same structure.

• Vague Language: The words “few”, “many”, “more”, “less”, and “some”, by themselves without numerical qualification, can be vague. Always consider the range of possibilities contained in vague words comparing quantity or size.
• Inappropriate Comparisons: This form presents a premise and conclusion for Thing #1, which is often quite clear and undisputable. Then, it argues, Thing #2 is very similar, so the premise and conclusion should apply to Thing #2 as well. Depending on the situation, the comparison may not be apt, and pointing out Thing #2 differs from Thing #1 in ways relevant to the argument can expose an essential flaw.
• Cause/Effect Errors: Many arguments want to make the case that “A causes B.” Whenever the argument “A causes B” is presented, some alternative interpretations to consider are (1) the reverse, “B causes A”; or (2) “A and B are both caused by new thing C”, or (3) “A and B, for a variety of reasons, often appear together, but one does not cause the other.” (This last interpretation is summed up succinctly in the sentence: “Correlation does not imply causality.”) Learn to spot arguments that draw conclusions of causality, and questions whether that’s the correct relationship.
• Overconfident Conclusions: Confidence = good. Overconfidence = bad. If you read the NY Times or the Wall Street Journal or the Economist magazine, you will notice the kind of tone the GMAT favors: thoughtful, balanced, and measured. Extreme conclusions are seldom correct on the GMAT. Any AWA prompt that presents a conclusion with God-given certainty is too strong, and this is a flaw that needs to be addressed.
• Proofread! Proofread! Proofread! : When you proofread, you have to consider several levels simultaneous: Is every word spelled correctly? Is every structure grammatically correct? Does the argument logically flow? Unfortunately (or fortunately!) you are not allowed to read your essay aloud in the testing center. What I do recommend, though: silently mouth the words, as if you are carefully pronouncing each word, even though you are not making any sounds. When you move your mouth & tongue, you are engaging more of your brain than when you are simply reading silently with your eyes, and you are more likely to catch subtle mistakes.

Those AWA tips are all important to keep in mind for your GMAT writing. But when you actually sit down at the computer on test day, what should you do? Here’s the process to use to get the most out of your 30 minutes with the GMAT AWA!

By the time you sit down on test day, you should have read the directions to the AWA (they’re posted above—take another look!), so you won’t need to waste time reading them again. Instead, dive straight into AWA brainstorming . As you brainstorm, list the argument’s flaws; then evaluate those flaws to find which objections are the strongest.

Write an Introduction

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel with each GMAT AWA introduction . Start by stating where the passage is from. Then, focus on two main tasks: summarizing the argument and stating why it’s flawed. Keep it short and sweet; three sentences are enough to get your main points set up!

Construct Your Body Paragraphs

These will make up the lion’s share of your essay, so you’ll spend most of your time writing body paragraphs. Here’s how to go about doing that:  

• Identification: Focus on a Premise: The first thing you will need to do in your paragraph is to identify what part of the argument you intend to analyze. The best way to do this is by simply summarizing the premise in the argument. You can state that it is flawed at this point, but it is not necessary. You’ll have plenty of time to do that, and the reader already knows what will happen from what you told them in the introduction. Paraphrase, summarize, and use synonyms to present the premise—don’t copy word for word—and this is a great way to lay the groundwork for your analysis.
• State the Obvious: Flaws Hurt Arguments : This is a common step skipped in student essays. We must return to the larger picture. Students assume that everything will make sense once the flaw is exposed, but this is far too brash. We can’t just expect our reader to “get it.” We need to speak plainly and directly about how the flaw weakens the argument, and more specifically, the recommendation, plan, or conclusion of the argument. Not all flaws weaken arguments in the same way so be specific about what aspect of the conclusion is questionable.
• Do Good: Improve and Strengthen the Argument : Now that you’ve taken the time to analyze the argument, break down a flaw, and explain the result of that flaw to the conclusion, time to build it back up. Approach the essay as a concerned and interested party, responding to the argument with sympathy. Don’t just be destructive. Give suggestions for improvement. And if you don’t like the conclusion, peer into the heart of what it is trying to accomplish and recommend a way to get there.

Conclude the Essay

First of all, keep in mind that you should not dwell in the conclusion. The heart of your essay, what really matters toward your score, is in the body paragraphs. These should be bulky and in-depth, but the conclusion should be short and to the point. Wrap things up in a timely manner so that you can get to the business of editing and revising your essay.

To keep things manageable and short, don’t go into the details. You only need to recap the major problems in the argument. Sometimes it is enough to say that there are major problems in the argument. Ignore the desire to repeat all the main points that you covered in the body paragraphs. This will only take extra space and waste precious time.

Finally, recommend a way to achieve the goal stated in the article. It is important to approach the analysis of the argument as an interested party. You don’t want to be wholly negative. For one, you will write a better analysis if you imagine yourself tied to the argument in some way, and two, the prompt asks you to strengthen the argument. Find some general evidence that will make the argument more convincing or make it irrefutable. Suggest a change so that the logic stands on firmer ground.

A GMAT analytical writing sample essay, whether well done or flawed in itself, can help you polish your own GMAT writing and bring your essays to the next level. The important part of reviewing example GMAT essays is in analyzing them (and expert analysis is even more helpful, particularly at the beginning).

Where can you find sample GMAT analytical writing prompts? Easy! The GMAC (the GMAT test-maker) actually provides all possible AWA essay topics on their website. So if you need examples of analytical questions for the GMAT , look no further!

If you’ve only taken standardized tests like the ACT or the SAT before, you may find AWA scoring slightly strange. GMAT Analytical Writing affects your overall score differently than essays on other exams do. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what a good GMAT analytical writing score on the GMAT is, as well as how important AWA scores are to your overall GMAT score.

The GMAT Analytical Writing Scoring System

First, let’s get an important point out of the way: The AWA score does not affect your overall GMAT score . Instead, it’s included as a separate category on your score report.

Although you won’t have an exact breakdown of your scores for each element, the GMAT analytical writing assessment is looking at your abilities in roughly four categories: Quality of Ideas, Organization, Writing Style, and Grammar and Usage. Based on your overall work, you’ll receive a score from 0 to 6, in half-point increments.

So just who decides where your essay falls within each of these four categories? First of all, a computer does. This is a bit surprising to most students when they first learn about it—after all, how can a computer evaluate something as subjective as writing? Well, remember that you’re not being scored on poetry here. Instead, the computer looks at the organization, syntax, and analytical aspects—things the GMAT algorithm is pretty good at doing.

Then, a trained evaluator will score the essay based on the general development of your ideas and written expression. The GMAT then averages these scores into your overall AWA score. Don’t worry about huge discrepancies in scores between the human and the computer graders, though: if the scores have more than a one-point difference, another human grader comes in to help set the final score.

How to Score Your Practice GMAT Essays

Scoring your own GMAT writing can be a little bit like trying to scratch your own back: it’s hard to see exactly where you are. But it can be done! By breaking down each component of your sample AWA essay, grading it, and averaging those grades, you can get some idea of your strengths and weaknesses. Magoosh even has a GMAT AWA scoring rubric you can use for this purpose.

So just how important are the AWA scores for business school admissions? We certainly could argue that the GMAT Analytical Writing score is not so important. It’s undeniable that the Quantitative sections and Verbal sections, which contribute to the overall GMAT score, are considerably more important than the separate GMAT writing score . Arguably, the fact that the AWA section was “cut in half” when IR was added in 2012 is a further indication of the relative importance of the GMAT essay and its score.

It’s true that Business school adcoms rely on the Quant, Verbal and Composite scores significantly more than the GMAT writing score. In fact, recent evidence suggest that adcoms also rely on the IR score significantly more than the GMAT essay score.

But while it’s true that, in your GMAT preparation , Quant and Verbal and even IR deserve more attention than the AWA, it’s also true you can’t completely neglect AWA. The difference between a 5 or 6 as your GMAT Analytic Writing score will not make or break a business school admission decision, but having an essay score below a 4 could hurt you.

The purpose of the AWA is to see how well you write, how effectively you express yourself in written form. This is vital in the modern business world, where you may conduct extensive deals with folks you only know via email and online chatting. Some of your important contacts in your business career will know you primarily through your writing, and for some, your writing might be their first experience of you. You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and when this first impression is in written form, the professional importance of producing high-quality writing is clear.

While you don’t need to write like Herman Melville, you need to be competent. A GMAT Analytic Writing score below 4 may cause business schools to question your competence. That’s why it’s important to have at least a decent showing in AWA.

For Non-Native English Speakers

In particular, if English is not your native language, I realize that this makes the AWA essay all the more challenging, but of course, a solid performance on the AWA by a non-native speaker would be a powerful testament to how well that student has learned English . Toward this end, non-native speakers should practice writing the AWA essay and try to get high-quality feedback on their essays.

Devoting 30% or more of your available study time to AWA is likely unwise, but devoting 0% to AWA might also hurt you. Between those, erring on the low side would be appropriate. If, in a three-month span, you write half a dozen practice essays , and get generally positive feedback on them with respect to the GMAT standards , that should be plenty of preparation.

The GMAT analytical writing can feel like a slog when you first encounter it: it requires deep focus and analysis, and it’s not what most students have spent their prep time working on. But with a bit of preparation, your GMAT essays can take your admissions file to the next level by boosting your AWA score significantly!

By including GMAT writing in your overall GMAT prep schedule, you’ll ensure that this section of the test doesn’t become a drag on your application—and helps, rather than hurts, your shot at your dream school. Good luck!

The post GMAT Analytical Writing: All About the GMAT Essay and How to Prepare For It appeared first on Magoosh GMAT Blog .

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GMAT Essay Tips: Preparing for the Analytical Writing Assessment

January 25, 2016

GMAT Essay Tips

Preparing for the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) portion of the GMAT seems to many of my students a waste of precious practice time, when what really “matters” is your 800-scaled score.

Fair enough.

But if you’re not regularly testing at the score you want, why not add an essay score of 6 to that admissions portfolio?

A perfect score cannot easily be ignored by business school admissions officers .

Here are some GMAT essay tips to help you get there:

• Flaws in the author’s logic.
• Assumptions the author is making.
• Supporting evidence upon which the author relies.
• Important: What additional evidence/studies could the author conduct to better analyze his or her conclusion? Always propose a controlled study.
• 5 minutes: Read the passage and note logical flaws. Doing so follows virtually the same approach as a critical reasoning question in the verbal section. The only difference is, on the AWA, you create the “answer choices.”
• 5 minutes: Outline your response, using a new bullet to discuss each major idea/flaw. Look for nuance. Three flaws is a great number for which to strive. And propose a study that can help educate the author in understanding the identified flaws.
• 15 minutes: Write your essay, using a new paragraph for each bullet in your outline. Introductions and conclusions can be a single line each, appended to the first and last paragraphs, respectively.
• 5 minutes: Review that you have hit everything in your outline, and edit for grammar.
• GMAT Essay Tips #3: Further evidence / proposed study: A controlled study compares the effect of an experimental manipulation on one sample of people with a “control” group upon whom the manipulation is not performed. For example, in a clinical drug trial, the experimental group gets the drug and the control group gets a placebo. Every other variable is held constant across both groups, so you can effectively isolate the effect of the manipulated variable. If you can devise an experiment that compares an experimental versus control group on a key variable the author is studying, you are advancing to a whole new level of logic – and one specifically called for by the directions!

Example: I created this example: it is not taken from an actual GMAT exam. “A New York City traffic engineer finds that as the number of traffic lights in the midtown section of the city increases, the number of car accidents city-wide also increases. She recommends to the Department of Transportation that, perhaps counterintuitively, it should decrease the number of traffic lights midtown in order to promote traffic safety across the city.”

Outline: For brevity, I simply outline how my essay might be structured. See if you found every flaw I did—or ones I didn’t. And suggest away different possible studies in the comments section!

• INTRO: Fundamentally, the author is making a city-wide, causal conclusion based on data from only one segment of the city that is purely correlational in nature.
• FLAW 1: Correlation does not imply causation ( a favorite of the GMAT test writers! ). Just because the number of traffic lights is correlated with the number of car accidents doesn’t mean that traffic lights are causing Suggesting a third variable that might be causing both would be ingenious!
• FLAW 2: The author is making a conclusion about policy for the entirety of New York City based on data taken only from midtown. Something may be fundamentally different about midtown. This is a dangerous extrapolation.
• FLAW 3: Nothing is indicated about the type of accidents that are occurring. Maybe increased traffic lights are actually helping to prevent serious or fatal accidents, while amplifying the number of minor fender-benders.
• HOW CAN WE KNOW? Well, for one thing, there are surely other Departments of Transportation in other cities who can provide parallel data. But what if we chose two virtually identical areas of the city (in size, population density, traffic patterns, etc.) and, holding all else constant, simply double the number of traffic lights in the first area vis-à-vis the second? Then we can compare, over some designated time period, the number of additional accidents caused by doubling the number of traffic lights (FLAW 1). If we chose different sections of the city, or even different cities, so long as the experiment is well controlled, we would also be addressing FLAW 2. And if we carefully recorded and perhaps created a rating system for severity of accident, we could compare not just number but severity across the two groups (FLAW 3). Finally, if you have a few more moments, acknowledge why your experiment is imperfect and suggest further tweaks that could be done.

I hope these GMAT essay tips have helped you think about the AWA.

Want to get to that GMAT score you do want? The author, Brian Lizotte , offers test preparation services for students of all ages. He has scored perfectly on the PSAT, SAT and ACT, as well as the ISEE and SSAT, and in the 99th percentile on the GMAT, GRE and LSAT. Brian graduated summa cum laude from Yale (3.95 GPA), earning simultaneous B.A./M.S. degrees in Psychology, and at graduation Yale’s faculty awarded him its top academic prize. He also holds an Ed.M. from Boston University (4.00 GPA) and a J.D. from Yale Law School. He has taught mathematics at the Groton School, served as Associate Provost for the Humanities at Yale, and was Assistant Head of the Brearley School in Manhattan. Brian’s method teaches students how to think, not memorize, and his broad knowledge of learning styles allows him to adapt to your own learning needs.

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Gmat analytical writing assessment.

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT contains one essay prompt and is 30 minutes long. The AWA tests your ability to analyze a logical argument and then write a coherent and convincing essay, evaluating the argument.

The topic on the argument essay can be extracted from a wide range of topics related to business. However, prior knowledge about the topic would not be required. The AWA only tests your ability to analyze the argument and write a cogent essay.

The AWA score would be published within 20 calendar days from the day of your exam and would be a part of your Official GMAT Score Report. If you feel that the score obtained on the AWA does not reflect your performance, you can choose to request rescoring your essay. Rescoring the essay is possible only once and requires additional payment. For rescoring, you need to make a request within 6 months from the date of your exam. AWA rescoring requests can result in a score increase or decrease.

Topics Tested on the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment Section

The AWA section tests a candidate’s ability to analyze a given argument, identify the inherent flaws in it, and provide logical and reasonable solutions in the form of an essay. The clarity in reasoning and coherence of thought are major assessment criteria for the AWA. The essay also needs to conform to elements of standard written English.

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GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment Scoring Pattern

The Analytical Writing Assessment section is scored on a range of 0 to 6, in increments of 0.5 points.

The essay is evaluated by a human and also by a machine algorithm. If there is a difference between the way the human and the machine have scored your essay, a second human evaluator is brought in, and your essay score may be adjusted. You will receive only one essay score, which is an average of the evaluations.

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Shivreet Majitha Shivreet Majitha Manya - The Princeton Review has helped me reach my goal. It was in Dec 2020 that I decided to join Manya – The Princeton Review & realised that there were so many tips & tricks that I had no idea about & I got 740. The online 1:1 classes & the additional booster sessions helped me strengthen my basics. Additionally, the mock-up review helped me understand my weak areas and work on them. I would like to thank the teachers who ensured that I understood the concepts & were deeply involved in my progress.

Rudra Mishra Rudra Mishra My journey started with knowing little to nothing about the GMAT but ended with me scoring a 760 in the first attempt. During this time, the staff at Manya – The Princeton Review helped me understand what the GMAT actually was, how it was different from other standardized tests & the approach one needed to take to score well. Like everyone, I too wanted to have an idea of where I stood before I gave the actual test. I used the practice tests from the GMAT website as well as those offered by Manya to get that idea. The study resources, performance analysis and timely motivation and advice provided by Manya – The Princeton Review helped me achieve a good score.

What is the GMAT analytical test?

In the Analytical Writing Assessment section or the essay section, you have to analyze an argument, identify the flaws in the argument and write an essay about it. Prior specific knowledge is not required.

Is analytical writing important in GMAT?

Analytical writing assessment (AWA)is important on the GMAT. Even though the AWA does not contribute to the composite GMAT score ( 200-800), it is used by different universities and departments during the application selection process. The writing skills tested in the AWA would prove beneficial even during your actual course as many programs require students to submit essays as a part of their coursework.

What should I study for GMAT Analytical?

In the Analytical Writing Assessment section or the essay, you have to analyze an argument, identify the flaws in the argument and write an essay about it. Prior specific knowledge is not required. You should practice evaluating arguments, understanding and working using relevant templates for these essays and writing the essays, all within 30 minutes (time available for this section on the GMAT).

What is the syllabus for the GMAT Analytical section?

How do i prepare for gmat analytical writing, gmat trending articles.

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GMAT Prep Online Guides and Tips

The best gmat study guide: format, tips, and practice.

In this GMAT study guide, I’ll walk you through the GMAT study process from start to finish. First, I’ll talk about why studying for the GMAT is worth the time and effort. Next, I’ll talk about the GMAT itself – the format of the test and what it covers. Then, I’ll give a brief overview of each of the sections of test, discussing the content and format of each.

After that, I’ll move into talking about how to set a goal score, create your GMAT study plan, and stick to it. Finally, I’ll talk about the practice itself. I’ll tell you where to find study materials and give you some tried and true study strategies for both the test as a whole and each individual section.

By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of where to start to study for the GMAT.

Why Should I Study for the GMAT?

Studying for the GMAT is a big commitment. Why should you do it? What will studying accomplish? Here are three important ways that studying for the GMAT can help you achieve your goals.

Not sure how or what to study? Confused by how to improve your score in the shortest time possible? We've created the only Online GMAT Prep Program that identifies your strengths and weaknesses, customizes a study plan, coaches you through lessons and quizzes, and adapts your study plan as you improve.

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#1: Raise Your Score

Using a GMAT study guide with clear goals and objectives is the best way to raise your GMAT score. If you’re looking to achieve a certain goal score, setting up a clear and achievable GMAT study plan will help you reach your goals.  Without a clear GMAT study guide, you’ll likely struggle to find time to study amongst all of your responsibilities. It’ll also be hard to ensure that you’re covering all the topics you need to improve on.

#2: Build Your Skills in Different Areas

When you study for the GMAT, you help to build your skills in different areas.  The GMAT tests many different skills across a wide variety of content areas. Very few test-takers are good at every single skill when they start thinking about taking the GMAT. By studying, you’ll be able to improve in areas of weakness and strengthen the areas that you’re already doing well on.

#3: Feel Confident on Test Day

Using a GMAT study guide to plan out your GMAT prep will help you feel more confident on test day. You’ll walk into the test center knowing what types of questions will be on the test, what the test format will be like, and how much time you’ll have, so that you’re comfortable and ready to go.

What’s on the GMAT, Anyway?

The GMAT is made up of four total section and has a total exam time of three hours and 30 minutes. Let’s look at what’s covered on each section of the test.

*Total Score is made up of the scaled scores from your Verbal and Quantitative sections. For more info, check out our GMAT Total Score guide .

Analytical Writing Assessment

The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment tests your ability to think critically and clearly communicate your ideas.

During this section, you’ll be asked to analyze the reasoning behind a given argument and write a critique of that argument.

Integrated Reasoning

The GMAT Integrated Reasoning section is the newest section of the GMAT. It’s designed to measure skills that you’ll need to do well in today’s advanced, data-driven world.

The Integrated Reasoning tests your ability to evaluate information given in multiple formats and from multiple sources with four question types: graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, table analysis, and multi-source reasoning.

Quant Section

The GMAT Quant section tests your ability to analyze data and draw conclusions using reasoning skills.  It  covers basic math concepts, such as arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Contrary to popular belief, the GMAT quant section doesn’t test advanced math concepts.

There are two types of questions on the GMAT quant: data sufficiency and problem solving.

Verbal Section

The GMAT Verbal section tests your ability to read, understand, evaluate, and edit different types of written material.

There are three types of questions on the GMAT verbal: reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.  The reading comprehension question type tests your ability to read and understand written material. The critical reasoning question type tests your ability to reason and evaluate arguments. The sentence correction question type tests your ability to identify errors and correct material to standard written English.

Creating Your GMAT Study Plan

Now that you know more about the GMAT, let’s talk about how you can create the best GMAT study plan to meet your goals.

Step 1: Set Your GMAT Goal Score

First, put together a list of all the business school programs that you’d like to attend. When you’re putting together your list, think about why you would like to attend each of these programs.

Next, research the average GMAT scores of the business schools that you want to apply to. You can find this information in a number of places. Most schools share this information on the program’s admissions page. You can also try calling the admissions department if you can’t find the info there. Other third party sources, like US News, also list the average GMAT scores of many schools.

Add the average GMAT scores for each school to your list of business school programs that you’re interested in. Find the highest average GMAT score of all the programs.

You want to set a score goal that’s about twenty points higher than the highest average GMAT score. This helps make sure you’ll be above the acceptable score range for all of your programs.

Step 2: Take a Practice Test

Your next step is to take a GMAT practice test if you haven’t already done so. Taking a GMAT practice test helps you get an idea of where you’re currently scoring and helps you understand what taking the test is actually like.

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The best way to do this is to download the free GMATPrep software so you can take an official practice test.

Try to replicate the exam day as closely as possible. So, make sure you’re taking the test timed, in one sitting, and in a quiet place with few interruptions. This helps ensure you get the most accurate practice score.

You’ll automatically receive all of your scores, except for the score for you Analytical Writing Assessment. For more information about what a GMAT total score is, check out our guide (link).

Step 3: Analyze Your Weaknesses

Understanding your weaknesses is a great way to make substantial gains to your GMAT score.

Use your practice test scores to get a better picture of your strengths and weaknesses as a GMAT test taker. Try to identify patterns: did you miss every sentence correction question? Are you better at the Verbal section than the Quant section? Did you miss every single Integrated Reasoning question? Asking and answering these questions will help you focus your prep by highlighting the sections you need to spend the most time on.

Step 4: Figure Out How Many Hours You’ll Need to Study

Now that you’ve figured out your baseline score, compare that to your goal score. Figure out how many points you are away from meeting your goal score.

I’ve included estimates of approximately how many hours you need to study in order to increase your score by a certain number of points.

• 0 – 50 points, 100 hours
• 51 – 100 points, 120 hours
• 101 – 150 points, 160 hours

Step 5: Create Your GMAT Study Schedule

Now that you’ve figured out how many hours you need to study total, figure out how many hours each week you can study.

Be realistic about this. You want your study time to be productive. You also want to make sure you’re not neglecting your other work or responsibilities. If you set a practice schedule that’s too packed, you might end up frustrated and burned out.

Divide the total number of hours you need to study by the number of hours you can study each week. That’s the number of weeks you need to study.

So if you need to study 120 hours and you can study for 10 hours each week, you will need to study for 12 weeks.

You may also want to build in time for retakes. You can take the GMAT up to five times in a 12 month period, but you have to wait for at least 16 days between exams.

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If you choose which schools to send your test scores before you take the GMAT, the schools will receive your scores in less than 20 days. To be safe, schedule your GMAT at least three weeks before application deadlines.

Step 6: Set Goals for Your Study Periods

Setting small goals for yourself is a great way to keep yourself on track and to make yourself feel good about your accomplishments.

You can set daily, weekly, or monthly goals (or all of the above). These goals might be simple (practice 50 math questions per week) or more complex (master graphics interpretation strategies).

Goal-setting will keep you accountable and will keep you on the right path with your practice.

Step 7: Track Your Progress

Scheduling and taking regular practice GMATs is a great way to monitor your progress.

Compare your scores to your original test. What sections did you improve on? Did you do worse on any section? What section is slipping through the cracks of your study plan?

Adjust your goals as needed based on your progress on practice tests. Maybe you were doing great on sentence corrections one week, but started to struggle the next. You could add a goal to your study plan that’ll remind to focus on that topic.

Finding GMAT Practice Materials

An important part of any GMAT study guide is great practice materials.

There are two main types of GMAT practice materials. Official GMAT prep materials are written by GMAC, the company that writes the GMAT. Unofficial GMAT prep materials are written by third-party companies that have extensively studied the GMAT and write their own test prep materials and questions.  Official GMAT materials are the best practice tools, since they include actual retired GMAT questions , but unofficial materials can be helpful as well, especially for learning strategies and review content.

To get you started, we’ve rounded up some of the best options for both types of prep materials.

Official GMAT Prep Materials

Official practice materials should be an important part of your prep. Practicing with official materials ensures that you’ll be working on questions that are just like what you’ll be seeing on test day.

GMATPrep Software

This free, online software gives you access to two full-length CATs, with the option to purchase up to four more. The “Exam Mode” of this software realistically simulates test day, which is great for building up your comfort with the exam. While the free product doesn’t have many practice questions, you can purchase additional question packs or use another resource in conjunction with this software.

The Official Guide for GMAT Review Set

This three-book set contains guides for the Verbal and Quantitative sections, as well as an overview of the entire test. It comes with access to over 900 official practice questions, which makes it an invaluable resource. Official practice questions are the best type of question you can practice, as they’re written by GMAC, who also writes the GMAT. While these guides don’t offer particularly comprehensive content reviews, they’re a great resource to use during your practice.

Unofficial GMAT Practice Tests

There are plenty of options for other unofficial GMAT practice tests if you’ve used up the official options. It’s important to take online tests whenever possible so that you can keep building your familiarity with the test. Here are two great resources for free CATs:

Veritas Prep

Veritas Prep offers one free GMAT practice test with explanations . If you’d like, you can purchase 6 more tests for $49. You can take the test with normal time, or you can add extra time. Veritas Prep is known for having accurate GMAT questions and in-depth explanations.

Kaplan offers two types of free online GMAT practice tests : self-proctored and instructor-proctored. For the self-proctored test, you’ll receive your scores and answer explanations to peruse at your leisure. For the instructor-proctored exam, you’ll get your scores, and then work with an instructor in real-time online to get answer explanations. Kaplan is generally fairly accurate, but does have some problems with having questions that are either a little different in format or a little off from GMAT core content.

Other GMAT Practice Resources

There are tons of different GMAT study resources out there, besides the ones offered online. In this section, I’ll offer some recommendations about other resources you can use in your GMAT prep.

GMAT Prep Books

One of the most popular options for GMAT books is the Manhattan Prep series , which provides a comprehensive overview of all topics seen on the GMAT. The 10 books that make up this bundle are designed to provide a substantial learning impact for students by helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and strategic thinking they need to do well on the test.  These books are great for developing deep knowledge of the content on the GMAT, and come with a year-long subscription to high-quality online practice tests.

If those aren’t right for you, there are a ton of other options for GMAT test prep books. Check out our complete guide to the best GMAT books  for more ideas.

There are lots of GMAT forums out there. These online message boards provide a place for past, present, and future test-takers to gather, share tips and tricks, and pool resources. Beat the GMAT and GMAT Club are great places to find information on strategies, reviews of prep materials, and access to other free resources, like downloadable question banks or flash cards.

The 4 Most Important GMAT Study Tips

Even if you have the best tools in the world, studying for the GMAT won’t get very far if you don’t put in the time and effort to study well. In this section, I’ll offer some tips for how you can study well for the GMAT, maximizing your time and effort to achieve your goal score.

Practice as Realistically as Possible

Simulate real test conditions as much as possible. This means doing practice on the computer to familiarize yourself with the test’s format. It also means practicing without a calculator, since using one isn’t allowed on the test. Try to always work in a quiet place with few distractions. Along the same lines, make sure you’re practicing with real (or accurate) questions that mirror the content you’ll see on the test.

Eliminate Distractions

Try to eliminate distractions while you study. Turn your cell phone to silent. If you’re like me and find yourself compulsively checking Facebook every five minutes, use a blocker like SelfControlApp to make sure you turn off access to social media during your studying.

Analyze Your Performance and Adjust Accordingly

As I mentioned before, set goals and stick to them. Use goals as a way to monitor your day-to-day progress, while using practice tests to assess larger arcs of performance. After you take a practice test, or meet or fail to meet a goal, make adjustments to your study schedule to make time for sections you need more work on and lessen the time you’re spending on sections that you’ve already mastered.

Learn the Test

Spend time familiarizing yourself as much as possible with the GMAT. Learn the question types asked on each section. Know the format of the test and the time you’ll have on each section. Use CATs to practice using the tools and functions that the real test will have. Doing these things will increase your confidence with the GMAT and reduce your anxiety on test day.

Review: The Best GMAT Study Guide

The GMAT is a long and difficult test, with four separate sections testing different types of content. However, you can increase your chances of achieving your goal GMAT score by crafting and executing a strong GMAT study guide.

Part of creating the best GMAT study guide for your testing needs is using high quality practice resources, so make sure to vet your practice materials to ensure their quality before you invest in them. Finally, make sure that you are preparing effectively by following my tips about how to study for the GMAT.

What’s Next?

Ready to craft your ultimate GMAT study plan? In our guide to writing a GMAT study plan , we offer four sample study plans designed to boost your score based on your individual test goals. Check out our guide to GMAT study plans to get started on yours.

Looking for those high quality GMAT practice books? There are tons of materials out there for you to peruse. You can choose GMAT prep books based on your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences as a test taker. Use our best GMAT Books guide to decide what prep books to buy.

Registering for the GMAT can be more complicated than you anticipate. If you’re ready to sign up for the GMAT, our step-by-step guide for registering for the GMAT will help walk you through the process.

Was this helpful? Sign up for FREE GMAT and MBA guides!

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Author: Hayley Milliman

Hayley Milliman is a former teacher turned writer who blogs about education, history, and technology. When she was a teacher, Hayley's students regularly scored in the 99th percentile thanks to her passion for making topics digestible and accessible. In addition to her work for PrepScholar, Hayley is the author of Museum Hack's Guide to History's Fiercest Females. View all posts by Hayley Milliman

Homepage > GMAT Preparation > GMAT Essay – List of AWA Topics – 50 Practice Questions on GMAT AWA 2023

GMAT Essay – List of AWA Topics – 50 Practice Questions on GMAT AWA 2023

Posted by Suheb Hussain | Jan 25, 2023 | GMAT Focus Edition , GMAT IR and AWA , GMAT Preparation

This document contains practice questions that will help you improve the AWA section or the GMAT essay section. Discuss in your GMAT essay how well-reasoned you find the argument. Here are some ways you can do that while writing your GMAT essay for the AWA section. In your discussion, be sure to analyze the line of reasoning and the use of evidence in the argument. For example, you may need to consider what questionable assumptions underlie the thinking and what alternative explanations or counterexamples might weaken the conclusion. You can also discuss what sort of evidence would strengthen or refute the argument, what changes in the argument would make it more logically sound, and what, if anything, would help you better evaluate its conclusion.

We also recommend you read this article on how to score a perfect 6 on the GMAT AWA.

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GMAT Essay practice question 1

• The following appeared as part of an article in a trade magazine:

“During a recent trial period in which government inspections at selected meat-processing plants were more frequent, the number of bacteria in samples of processed chicken decreased by 50 percent on average from the previous year’s level. If the government were to institute more frequent inspections, the incidence of stomach and intestinal infections throughout the country could thus be cut in half. In the meantime, consumers of Excel Meats should be safe from infection because Excel’s main processing plant has shown more improvement in eliminating bacterial contamination than any other plant cited in the government report.”

Discuss how well reasoned . . . etc.

GMAT Essay practice question 2

2. The following appeared as part of an annual report sent to stockholders by Olympic Foods, a processor of frozen foods:

“Over time, the costs of processing go down because as organizations learn how to do things better, they become more efficient. In color film processing, for example, the cost of a 3-by-5-inch print fell from 50 cents for five-day service in 1970 to 20 cents for one-day service in 1984. The same principle applies to the processing of food. And since Olympic Foods will soon celebrate its 25th birthday, we can expect that our long experience will enable us to minimize costs and thus maximize profits.”

GMAT AWA practice question 3

3. The following appeared in a memorandum from the business department of the Apogee Company:

“When the Apogee Company had all its operations in one location, it was more profitable than it is today. Therefore, the Apogee Company should close down its field offices and conduct all its operations from a single location. Such centralization would improve profitability by cutting costs and helping the company maintain better supervision of all employees.”

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GMAT Essay practice question 4

4. The following appeared in a memorandum issued by a large city’s council on the arts:

“In a recent citywide poll, 15 percent more residents said that they watch television programs about the visual arts than was the case in a poll conducted five years ago. During these past five years, the number of people visiting our city’s art museums has increased by a similar percentage. Since the corporate funding that supports public television, where most of the visual arts programs appear, is now being threatened with severe cuts, we can expect that attendance at our city’s art museums will also start to decrease. Thus some of the city’s funds for supporting the arts should be reallocated to public television.”

GMAT Essay practice question 5

5. The following appeared in an announcement issued by the publisher of The Mercury , a weekly newspaper:

“Since a competing lower-priced newspaper, The Bugle , was started five years ago, The Mercury ’s circulation has declined by 10,000 readers. The best way to get more people to read The Mercury is to reduce its price below that of The Bugle , at least until circulation increases to former levels. The increased circulation of The Mercury will attract more businesses to buy advertising space in the paper.”

Attention test takers! GMAC has recently announced a new version of the GMAT test called the GMAT Focus edition. This new test will be launched in the latter part of 2023, while the current version of the test will be available till at least early 2024.

Read this article to know the key differences between the current version and the GMAT focus edition .

Also, watch the following video to learn all about the GMAT Focus edition and also understand how to decide which version of the exam to take- The current version or the GMAT Focus edition.

GMAT Essay practice question 6

6.  The following appeared in a report presented for discussion at a meeting of the directors of a company that manufactures parts for heavy machinery:

“The falling revenues that the company is experiencing coincide with delays in manufacturing. These delays, in turn, are due in large part to poor planning in purchasing metals. Consider further that the manager of the department that handles purchasing of raw materials has an excellent background in general business, psychology, and sociology, but knows little about the properties of metals. The company should, therefore, move the purchasing manager to the sales department and bring in a scientist from the research division to be manager of the purchasing department.”

GMAT Essay practice question 7

7. The following appeared in a research paper written for an introductory economics course:

“For the past century, an increase in the number of residential building permits issued per month in a particular region has been a reliable indicator of coming improvements to that region’s economy. If the monthly number of residential building permits issued rises consistently for a few months, the local unemployment rate almost always falls and economic production increases. This well-established connection reveals an effective method by which a regional government can end a local economic downturn: relax regulations governing all construction so that many more building permits can be issued.”

Discuss how well reasoned . . .etc.

GMAT Essay practice question 8

8.  The following appeared in a memorandum to the work-group supervisors of the GBS Company:

“The CoffeeCart beverage and food service located in the lobby of our main office building is not earning enough in sales to cover its costs, and so the cart may discontinue operating at GBS. Given the low staff morale, as evidenced by the increase in the number of employees leaving the company, the loss of this service could present a problem, especially since the staff morale questionnaire showed widespread dissatisfaction with the snack machines.

Therefore, supervisors should remind the employees in their group to patronize the cart—after all, it was leased for their convenience so that they would not have to walk over to the cafeteria on breaks.”

GMAT Essay practice question 9

9. The following appeared in a memorandum written by the chair of the music department to the president of Omega University:

“Mental health experts have observed that symptoms of mental illness are less pronounced in many patients after group music-therapy sessions, and job openings in the music-therapy field have increased during the past year. Consequently, graduates from our degree program for music therapists should have no trouble finding good positions. To help improve the financial status of Omega University, we should, therefore, expand our music-therapy degree program by increasing its enrollment targets.”

GMAT Essay practice question 10

10. The following appeared in a memorandum from the vice president of Gigantis, a development company that builds and leases retail store facilities:

“Nationwide over the past five years, sales have increased significantly at outlet stores that deal exclusively in reduced-price merchandise. Therefore, we should publicize the new mall that we are building at Pleasantville as a central location for outlet shopping and rent storage space only to outlet companies. By taking advantage of the success of outlet stores, this plan should help ensure full occupancy of the mall and enable us to recover quickly the costs of building the mall.”

11. The following appeared in a memorandum from the business planning department of Avia Airlines:

“Of all the cities in their region, Beaumont and Fletcher are showing the fastest growth in the number of new businesses. Therefore, Avia should establish a commuter route between them as a means of countering recent losses on its main passenger routes. And to make the commuter route more profitable from the outset, Avia should offer a 1/3 discount on tickets purchased within two days of the flight. Unlike tickets bought earlier, discount tickets will be nonrefundable, and so gain from their sale will be greater.”

12. The following appeared in a speech by a stockholder of Consolidated Industries at the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting:

“In the computer hardware division last year, profits fell significantly below projections, the product line decreased from 20 to only 5 items, and expenditures for employee benefits increased by 15 percent. Nevertheless, Consolidated’s board of directors has approved an annual salary of more than $1 million for our company’s chief executive officer. The present board members should be replaced because they are unconcerned about the increasing costs of employee benefits and salaries, in spite of the company’s problems generating income.”

13.  The following appeared as part of a business plan by the Capital Idea investment firm:

“In recent years the worldwide demand for fish has grown, and improvements in fishing technology have made larger catches and thus increased supply possible: for example, last year’s tuna catch was 9 percent greater than the previous year’s. To capitalize on these trends, we should, therefore, invest in the new tartfish processing plant on Tartfish Island, where increasing revenues from tourism indicate a strong local economy.”

14. The following appeared as part of an article in a weekly newsmagazine:

“The country of Oleum can best solve the problem of its balance of trade deficit by further increasing the tax on its major import, crude oil. After Oleum increased the tax on imported crude oil four months ago, consumption of gasoline declined by 20 percent. Therefore, by imposing a second and significantly higher tax increase next year, Oleum will dramatically decrease its balance of trade deficit.”

15. The following appeared in a memorandum from the human resources department of HomeStyle, a house remodeling business:

“This year, despite HomeStyle’s move to new office space, we have seen a decline in both company morale and productivity, and a corresponding increase in administrative costs. To rectify these problems, we should begin using a newly developed software package for performance appraisal and feedback. Managers will save time by simply choosing comments from a preexisting list; then the software will automatically generate feedback for the employee. The human resources department at CounterBalance, the manufacturer of the countertops we install, reports satisfaction with the package.”

16. The following appeared in a memorandum written by the managing director of the Exeunt Theater Company:

“Now that we have moved to a larger theater, we can expect to increase our revenues from ticket sales. To further increase profits, we should start producing the plays that have been most successful when they were performed in our nation’s largest cities. In addition, we should hire the Adlib Theater Company’s director of fund-raising, since corporate contributions to Adlib have increased significantly over the three years that she has worked for Adlib.”

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17. The following appeared in a memorandum from a regional supervisor of post office operations:

“During a two-week study of postal operations, the Presto City post office handled about twice as many items as the Lento City post office, even though the cities are about the same size. Moreover, customer satisfaction appears to be higher in Presto City, since the study found fewer complaints regarding the Presto City post office. Therefore, the postmasters at these two offices should exchange assignments: the Presto City postmaster will solve the problems of inefficiency and customer dissatisfaction at the Lento City office while the Lento City postmaster learns firsthand the superior methods of Presto City.”

18. The following appeared in a memorandum from the human resources department of Diversified Manufacturing:

“Managers at our central office report that their employees tend to be most productive in the days immediately preceding a vacation. To help counteract our declining market share, we could increase the productivity of our professional staff members, who currently receive four weeks paid vacation a year, by limiting them to a maximum of one week’s continuous vacation time. They will thus take more vacation breaks during a year and give us more days of maximum productivity.”

19. The following appeared in a memorandum from the marketing department of a children’s clothing manufacturer:

“Our HuggyBunny brand is the bestselling brand of children’s clothing. Parents everywhere recognize the HuggyBunny logo as a mark of quality, and most of our customers show great brand loyalty. Sales reports have shown that parents are more likely to buy children’s clothes with the familiar HuggyBunny brand and logo than otherwise identical clothes without it. Therefore, if we use the HuggyBunny brand name and logo for the new line of clothing for teenagers that our company will soon be introducing, that clothing will sell better than it would if we labeled it with a new brand name and logo.”

20. The following appeared in a memorandum from the president of Aurora, a company that sells organic milk (milk produced without the use of chemical additives):

“Sales of organic food products in this country have tripled over the past five years. If Aurora is to profit from this continuing trend, we must diversify and start selling products such as organic orange juice and organic eggs in addition to our regular product line. With the recent increase of articles in health magazines questioning the safety of milk and other food products, customers are even more likely to buy our line of organic products. And to help ensure our successful expansion, we should hire the founder of a chain of health-food stores to serve as our vice president of marketing.”

21. The following appeared as part of an article in a newsletter for farmers:

“Users of Solacium, a medicinal herb now grown mainly in Asia, report that it relieves tension and promotes deep sleep. A recent study indicates that a large number of college students who took pills containing one of the ingredients in Solacium suffered less anxiety. To satisfy the anticipated demands for this very promising therapeutic herb and to reap the financial benefits, farmers in this country should begin growing it.”

22. The following appeared as part of the business plan of the Capital Idea investment firm:

“Across town in the Park Hill district, the Thespian Theater, Pizzazz Pizza, and the Niblick Golf Club have all had business increases over the past two years. Capital Idea should, therefore, invest in the Roxy Playhouse, the Slice-o’- Pizza, and the Divot Golf Club, three new businesses in the Irongate district. As a condition, we should require them to participate in a special program: Any customer who patronizes two of the businesses will receive a substantial discount at the third. By motivating customers to patronize all three, we will thus contribute to the profitability of each and maximize our return.”

23. The following appeared in a memorandum from the owner of Carlo’s Clothing to the staff:

“Since Disc Depot, the music store on the next block began a new radio advertising campaign last year, its business has grown dramatically, as evidenced by the large increase in foot traffic into the store. While the Disc Depot’s owners have apparently become wealthy enough to retire, profits at Carlo’s Clothing have remained stagnant for the past three years. In order to boost our sales and profits, we should, therefore, switch from newspaper advertising to frequent radio advertisements like those for Disc Depot.”

24. The following appeared in a letter to the editor of a River City newspaper:

“The Clio Development Group’s plan for a multilevel parking garage on Dock Street should be approved in order to strengthen the economy of the surrounding area. Although most of the buildings on the block would have to be demolished, they are among the oldest in the city and thus of little current economic value. Those who oppose the project should realize that historic preservation cannot be the only consideration: even Athens or Jerusalem will knock down old buildings to put up new ones that improve the local economy.”

25. The following appeared in a memorandum from the publisher to the staff of The Clarion , a large metropolitan newspaper:

“During the recent campaign for mayor, a clear majority of city readers who responded to our survey indicated a desire for more news about city government. To increase circulation, and thus our profits, we should therefore consistently devote a greater proportion of space in all editions of The Clarion to coverage of local news.”

26. The following appeared in a corporate planning memorandum for a company that develops amusement parks:

“Because travel from our country to foreign countries has increased dramatically in recent years, our next project should be a ‘World Tour’ theme park with replicas of famous foreign buildings, rides that have international themes, and refreshment stands to serve only foods from the country represented by the nearest ride. The best location would be near our capital city, which has large percentages of international residents and of children under the age of 16. Given the advantages of this site and the growing interest in foreign countries, the ‘World Tour’ theme park should be as successful as our space-travel theme park, where attendance has increased tenfold over the past decade.”

27.  The following appeared in a letter to the editor of a River City newspaper:

“The Clio Development Group should not be permitted to build a multilevel parking garage on Dock Street since most of the buildings on the block would have to be demolished. Because these buildings were erected decades ago, they have historic significance and must, therefore, be preserved as economic assets in the effort to revitalize a restored riverfront area. Recall how Lakesburg has benefited from business increases in its historic downtown center. Moreover, there is plenty of vacant land for a parking lot elsewhere in River City.”

28. The following appeared in a letter to the editor of a local newspaper:

“Our city council’s neglect of the impoverished Railroad Flats neighborhood has left businesses with little incentive to locate there. Building a new professional football stadium in the neighborhood would solve this problem. Thousands of football fans would travel to the area to see games, and they would buy from local merchants, encouraging new businesses to open. So our city council should move quickly to fund the construction of a professional football stadium in Railroad Flats in order to help the neighborhood develop a thriving economy.”

29. The following appeared in a memorandum from the director of marketing for a pharmaceutical company:

“According to a survey of 5,000 urban residents, the prevalence of stress headaches increases with educational level, so that stress headaches occur most often among people with graduate-school degrees. It is well established that, nationally, higher educational levels usually correspond with higher levels of income. Therefore, in marketing our new pain remedy, Omnilixir, we should send free samples primarily to graduate students and to people with graduate degrees, and we should concentrate on advertising in professional journals rather than in general interest magazines.”

30. The following appeared as part of an editorial in the Waymarsh city newspaper:

“Last year the parents of first graders in our school district expressed satisfaction with the reading skills their children developed but complained strongly about their children’s math skills. To remedy this serious problem and improve our district’s elementary education, everyone in the teacher-training program at Waymarsh University should be required to take more courses in mathematics.”

31. The following appeared in a memorandum from the business office of the Lovin’ Cupful, a national restaurant chain:

“The Lovin’ Cupful franchises in our northeast region have begun serving customers Almost, a brand new powdered instant tea, in place of brewed tea. Waiters report that only about 2 percent of the customers have complained and that customers who want refills typically ask for ‘more tea.’ It appears, then, that 98 percent of the customers are perfectly happy with the switch, or else they cannot tell powdered instant from brewed tea. Therefore, in order to take advantage of the lower price per pound of Almost, all of our restaurants should begin substituting it for brewed tea.”

32. The following appeared as a memorandum from the vice-president of the Dolci candy company:

“Given the success of our premium and most expensive line of chocolate candies in a recent taste test and the consequent increase in sales, we should shift our business focus to producing additional lines of premium candy rather than our lower-priced, ordinary candies. When the current economic boom ends and consumers can no longer buy major luxury items, such as cars, they will still want to indulge in small luxuries, such as expensive candies.”

33. The following appeared in a memorandum from the director of research and development at Ready-to-Ware, a software engineering firm:

“The package of benefits and incentives that Ready-to-Ware offers to professional staff is too costly. Our quarterly profits have declined since the package was introduced two years ago, at the time of our incorporation. Moreover, the package had little positive effect, as we have had only marginal success in recruiting and training high-quality professional staff. To become more profitable again, Ready-to-Ware should, therefore, offer the reduced benefits package that was in place two years ago and use the savings to fund our current research and development initiatives.”

34. The following appeared in a memorandum from the assistant manager of Pageturner Books:

“Over the past two years, Pageturner’s profits have decreased by 5 percent, even though we have added a popular café as well as a music section selling CDs and tapes. At the same time, we have experienced an increase in the theft of merchandise. We should, therefore, follow the example of Thoreau Books, which increased its profits after putting copies of its most frequently stolen books on a high shelf behind the payment counter. By doing likewise with copies of the titles that our staff reported stolen last year, we too can increase profitability.”

35. The following appeared in a memorandum to a team developing accounting software for SmartPro Software, Inc.:

“Currently, more professional accountants use SmartPro accounting software than any other brand. However, in the market for personal accounting software for non-professionals to use in preparing their income tax returns, many of our competitors are outselling us. In surveys, our professional customers repeatedly say that they have chosen SmartPro Software because our most sophisticated software products include more advanced special features than competing brands. Therefore, the most effective way for us to increase sales of our personal accounting software for home users would clearly be to add the advanced special features that our professional software products currently offer.”

36. The following appeared in a memorandum written by the assistant manager of a store that sells gourmet food items from various countries:

“A local wine store made an interesting discovery last month: it sold more French than Italian wine on days when it played recordings of French accordion music, but it sold more Italian than French wine on days when Italian songs were played. Therefore, I recommend that we put food specialties from one particular country on sale for a week at a time and play only music from that country while the sale is going on. By this means we will increase our profits in the same way that the wine store did, and we will be able to predict more precisely what items we should stock at any given time.”

37. The following appeared in a memo to the Saluda town council from the town’s business manager:

“Research indicates that those who exercise regularly are hospitalized less than half as often as those who don’t exercise. By providing a well-equipped gym for Saluda’s municipal employees, we should be able to reduce the cost of our group health insurance coverage by approximately 50 percent and thereby achieve a balanced town budget.”

38. The following appeared as part of a letter to the editor of a local newspaper:

“Bayview High School is considering whether to require all of its students to wear uniforms while at school. Students attending Acorn Valley Academy, a private school in town, earn higher grades on average and are more likely to go on to college. Moreover, Acorn Valley reports few instances of tardiness, absenteeism, or discipline problems. Since Acorn Valley requires its students to wear uniforms, Bayview High School would do well to follow suit and require its students to wear uniforms as well.”

39. The following appeared as part of a memorandum from the loan department of the Frostbite National Bank:

“We should not approve the business loan application of the local group that wants to open a franchise outlet for the Kool Kone chain of ice cream parlors. Frostbite is known for its cold winters, and cold weather can mean slow ice cream sales. For example, even though Frostbite is a town of 10,000 people, it has only one ice cream spot—the Frigid Cow. Despite the lack of competition, the Frigid Cow’s net revenues fell by 10 percent last winter.”

40. The following appeared in a letter from a staff member in the office of admissions at Argent University:

“The most recent nationwide surveys show that undergraduates choose their major field primarily based on their perception of job prospects in that field. At our university, economics is now the most popular major, so students must perceive this field as having the best job prospects. Therefore, we can increase our enrollment if we focus our advertising and recruiting on publicizing the accomplishments of our best-known economics professors and the success of our economics graduates in finding employment.”

41. The following appeared as part of a business plan created by the management of the Take Heart Fitness Center:

“After opening the new swimming pool early last summer, Take Heart saw a 12 percent increase in the use of the center by its members. Therefore, in order to increase membership in Take Heart, we should continue to add new recreational facilities in subsequent years: for example, a multipurpose game room, a tennis court, and a miniature golf course. Being the only center in the area offering this range of activities would give us a competitive advantage in the health and recreation market.”

42. The following appeared as part of an article in the book section of a newspaper:

“Currently more and more books are becoming available in electronic form—either free-of-charge on the Internet or for a very low price-per-book on compact disc.* Thus literary classics are likely to be read more widely than ever before. People who couldn’t have purchased these works at bookstore prices will now be able to read them for little or no money; similarly, people who find it inconvenient to visit libraries and wait for books to be returned by other patrons will now have access to whatever classic they choose from their home or work computers. This increase in access to literary classics will radically affect the public taste in reading, creating a far more sophisticated and learned reading audience than has ever existed before.”

*A compact disc is a small portable disc capable of storing relatively large amounts of data that can be read by a computer.

43. The following appeared as an editorial in a magazine concerned with educational issues:

“In our country, the real earnings of men who have only a high-school degree have decreased significantly over the past 15 years, but those of male college graduates have remained about the same. Therefore, the key to improving the earnings of the next generation of workers is to send all students to college. Our country’s most important educational goal, then, should be to establish enough colleges and universities to accommodate all high school graduates.”

44. The following appeared in an editorial from a newspaper serving the town of Saluda:

“The Saluda Consolidated High School offers more than 200 different courses from which its students can choose. A much smaller private school down the street offers a basic curriculum of only 80 different courses, but it consistently sends a higher proportion of its graduating seniors on to college than Consolidated does. By eliminating at least half of the courses offered there and focusing on a basic curriculum, we could improve student performance at Consolidated and also save many tax dollars.”

45. The following appeared as part of an article in a trade magazine for breweries:

“Magic Hat Brewery recently released the results of a survey of visitors to its tasting room last year. Magic Hat reports that the majority of visitors asked to taste its low-calorie beers. To boost sales, other small breweries should brew low-calorie beers as well.”

46. The following appeared in a memorandum sent by a vice-president of the Nadir Company to the company’s human resources department:

“Nadir does not need to adopt the costly ‘family-friendly’ programs that have been proposed, such as part-time work, work at home, and job-sharing. When these programs were made available at the Summit Company, the leader in its industry, only a small percentage of employees participated in them. Rather than adversely affecting our profitability by offering these programs, we should concentrate on offering extensive training that will enable employees to increase their productivity.”

47. The following appeared in a letter to prospective students from the admissions office at Plateau College:

“Every person who earned an advanced degree in science or engineering from Olympus University last year received numerous offers of excellent jobs. Typically, many graduates of Plateau College have gone on to pursue advanced degrees at Olympus. Therefore, enrolling as an undergraduate at Plateau College is a wise choice for students who wish to ensure success in their careers.”

48. The following was excerpted from an article in a farming trade publication:

“Farmers who switched from synthetic to organic farming last year have seen their crop yields decline. Many of these farmers feel that it would be too expensive to resume synthetic farming at this point, given the money that they invested in organic farming supplies and equipment. But their investments will be relatively minor compared to the losses from continued lower crop yields. Organic farmers should switch to synthetic farming rather than persist in an unwise course. And the choice to farm organically is financially unwise, given that it was motivated by environmental rather than economic concerns.”

49. The following appeared as part of an article in a computer magazine:

“A year ago Apex Manufacturing bought its managers computers for their homes and paid for telephone connections so that they could access Apex computers and data files from home after normal business hours. Since last year, productivity at Apex has increased by 15 percent. Other companies can learn from the success at Apex: given home computers and access to company resources, employees will work additional hours at home and thereby increase company profits.”

50. The following appeared in the editorial section of a local paper:

“Applications for advertising spots on KMTV, our local cable television channel, decreased last year. Meanwhile, a neighboring town’s local channel, KOOP, changed its focus to farming issues and reported an increase in advertising applications for the year. To increase applications for its advertisement spots, KMTV should focus its programming on farming issues as well.”

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Mastering the GMAT: Your Ultimate Guide to Success in 2024

MBA & Beyond Team

08/01/2024 | 3:11 pm

A. Brief Overview of the GMAT

The GMAT, known as the Graduate Management Admission Test, plays a crucial role in the admissions process of graduate business schools. Serving as a standardized assessment, the GMAT assesses the skills and readiness of individuals entering the challenging field of business education. It acts as a gatekeeper, providing a common metric to evaluate candidates on a level playing field. By offering a standardized evaluation, the GMAT allows admissions committees to compare applicants objectively, ensuring fairness and equity in the admissions process.

B. Importance of GMAT in the MBA Admissions Process

The GMAT holds great importance in the MBA admissions process as it serves as a crucial assessment tool. This standardized test evaluates candidates’ quantitative, verbal, analytical, and writing skills, providing business schools with a common benchmark to gauge academic potential. By measuring aptitude and critical thinking abilities, the GMAT offers insight into an applicant’s readiness for the rigorous curriculum of an MBA program. Admissions committees rely on the GMAT to assess candidates’ ability to excel in areas relevant to the business field. This comprehensive assessment of skills and abilities makes the GMAT an influential factor in the selection process for MBA programs.

C. Significance of Staying Updated on GMAT Trends in 2024

Staying updated on GMAT trends is crucial for effective test preparation in 2024. By understanding the current trends, test takers can tailor their strategies and focus on the areas that are most likely to be emphasized in the exam. These trends can include changes in question types, format, or content areas that receive greater emphasis. Being aware of such trends allows test takers to allocate their study time and resources effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for the specific challenges they may face. Additionally, staying updated on trends allows individuals to access the most relevant study materials and resources that align with the current GMAT requirements. As the test evolves, being aware of the latest trends helps test takers stay ahead of the curve and enhances their chances of achieving their desired GMAT score. Therefore, it is essential to actively seek out and engage with the latest GMAT trends to optimize test preparation efforts in 2024.

II. Understanding the GMAT Format

A. overview of the gmat structure.

The GMAT is a complex examination, designed meticulously to assess a wide range of skills. Let’s break down the structure to gain insight into each section:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This segment examines the candidate’s ability to effectively analyze and evaluate arguments.
• Integrated Reasoning (IR): It tests the candidate’s ability to interpret and synthesize data from various sources, requiring a comprehensive understanding.
• Quantitative Reasoning (QR): This section focuses on the candidate’s proficiency in solving quantitative problems accurately, using mathematical concepts.
• Verbal Reasoning (VR): It’s a holistic assessment that includes reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction, evaluating the candidate’s linguistic and analytical abilities.

B. Changes and Updates in the GMAT Format for 2024

The temporal dimensions of the GMAT could potentially change in 2024. Being aware of the updated exam duration is essential for candidates to refine their test-taking strategies according to the revised time limits. It is important to understand the sectional breakdown and the weightage given to each section. This knowledge empowers candidates to manage their time effectively and approach all segments in a balanced manner. The adaptive nature of the test adds complexity, as the difficulty of subsequent questions depends on the candidate’s performance in preceding ones. Being prepared for this adaptive feature is a crucial aspect of a comprehensive GMAT strategy.

III. GMAT Calendar and Important Dates

A. gmat registration deadlines.

Starting your GMAT journey requires strategic planning, particularly when it comes to early registration. The registration deadlines vary depending on the format of the GMAT you choose:

• Classic GMAT: You have until January 31, 2024, to register for the traditional GMAT.
• GMAT Focus Edition : Registration for the new GMAT Focus Edition is currently open.

To know more about MBA exam deadlines and updates, click here

The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) suggests signing up 2-3 months prior to your desired test date. However, if necessary, you can register online or by phone up to 24 hours before the exam. It is crucial to register early since popular test centers tend to fill up quickly. By doing so, you can secure your preferred location and date, allowing ample time for preparation without unnecessary stress.

B. Test Date Selection Strategies

Strategically choosing the test date is of utmost importance. Test takers should consider personal commitments, identify their peak performance times, and allocate enough time for thorough preparation. Thoughtful test date selection can have a significant impact on overall performance in the exam.

C. Importance of Planning Ahead

A robust study plan is crucial for GMAT success. It includes a detailed schedule, resources, and allocated study time. Planning ahead ensures comprehensive content coverage. A well-structured plan helps with organization, time management, and progress tracking. With a clear plan, productivity increases and preparation stress decreases. A strong study plan is key to a successful GMAT journey.

D. Managing Retake Schedules

Understanding when and why to consider retaking the GMAT is crucial for strategic planning. By analyzing the initial test results, candidates can pinpoint specific areas for improvement and adopt a targeted approach to retake preparation.

E. Importance of Planning Ahead

Planning ahead is crucial for effective GMAT preparation and plays a vital role in a candidate’s journey to success. This strategic process encompasses several essential elements:

• Creating a Study Plan: Crafting a well-structured study plan is crucial when it comes to creating a study plan. It provides a systematic and organized approach to covering the extensive GMAT syllabus. By thoughtfully allocating time, one can ensure comprehensive coverage of all relevant topics without overwhelming themselves. 
• Gathering Resources: The selection of appropriate study materials is of utmost importance when gathering resources for studying. This includes making a wise choice of books, online resources, and practice tests. Accessing high-quality materials significantly contributes to the effectiveness of the preparation process. 
• Setting Realistic Goals: Setting clear and realistic goals is not just a mere formality but a guiding principle in the study plan. Such goals serve as a roadmap for focused preparation, keeping the candidate engaged and motivated throughout the process. Additionally, they provide a tangible endpoint to strive towards.

F. Managing Retake Schedules

Understanding when and why to retake the GMAT is a strategic consideration. Analyzing the results of the initial attempt serves as a diagnostic tool, allowing candidates to:

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Devise a targeted approach for improving : By identifying areas of weakness, candidates can tailor their preparation strategies. This focused approach ensures that efforts are concentrated on enhancing specific skills that may have contributed to challenges during the first attempt.

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G. Free Mock Paper Links and Crash Courses for GMAT Prep

When commencing your GMAT preparation journey, having access to complementary practice papers and intensive courses can greatly heighten your level of readiness for the exam. Here are a few recommended resources that you should consider:

• E GMAT: E GMAT offers comprehensive GMAT preparation courses that encompass adaptive learning modules and customized study plans. Make sure to visit their website to avail yourself of their free trial access and available resources.
• Magoosh: Magoosh provides a user-friendly platform that offers a diverse range of GMAT prep resources. Take the opportunity to explore their blog, practice questions, and free trial options in order to strengthen your preparation.

Recommended Free Mock Paper Links:

• GMAT Club : A platform driven by the community that offers a wide variety of realistic GMAT practice tests and engaging discussion forums for free.
• Veritas Prep : Access realistic and engaging GMAT practice exams and resources to enhance your skills and evaluate your progress.
• Manhattan Prep : Manhattan Prep offers engaging and realistic GMAT resources, such as practice exams and valuable insights into various GMAT sections.

Additionally, consider exploring crash courses from reputable providers like Kaplan, Princeton Review, and Manhattan Prep. These courses often condense important concepts, offering a concentrated yet efficient study experience. 

Remember, incorporating a variety of resources into your preparation plan will provide you with a well-rounded understanding of the GMAT format and help you pinpoint areas for improvement. Always take advantage of free trials and sample materials to ensure that the chosen resources align with your learning preferences.

IV. Setting Your GMAT Goals

A. importance of goal setting.

Setting clear and realistic goals is not only a preliminary step but an ongoing process in the GMAT preparation journey. These goals act as a dynamic roadmap, providing a simplified and engaging way to guide your preparation.

A Simplified Roadmap for Engaging Preparation: Setting clear goals allows for focused preparation by breaking down the extensive syllabus into manageable milestones. This organized approach prevents overwhelm and ensures consistent progress.

Alignment with Aspirations: Goals should correspond to the candidate’s aspirations, establishing a personalized connection to the journey. Aligning aspirations improves motivation and commitment to the preparation process.

Aligning goals with the requirements of target MBA programs ensures that the candidate’s efforts directly contribute to the competitiveness of their application. This reflects a thoughtful and strategic approach to the admission process, making it simpler and more engaging.

B. Assessing Your Target MBA Programs

Understanding the specific expectations and criteria of the MBA programs a candidate aims for involves tailoring their preparation accordingly. Gaining insights into the program expectations allows candidates to customize their preparation process, ensuring alignment with the unique characteristics and values of the targeted institutions.

C. Aligning GMAT Scores with MBA Program Requirements

The GMAT score is crucial for MBA admissions. It ensures applicants have necessary skills. Aligning GMAT scores with program requirements helps identify suitable candidates. Programs set a minimum score as a benchmark for readiness. Some programs may have different requirements based on background and competitiveness. Researching and understanding score expectations is essential for admission.

D. Personalized Tips

Tailor your GMAT preparation to suit your specific needs by first setting realistic and engaging goals. Consider the specific requirements of your desired MBA programs in order to ensure a smooth timeline. Schedule your GMAT exam at least 2 months in advance of your planned test date to allow for ample preparation time. Incorporate regular mock exams into your routine, aiming for a weekly or bi-weekly schedule, to enhance your readiness. This proactive approach will not only help you assess your progress but also build the stamina and confidence required for success on the actual GMAT.

V. Creating a Study Plan

A. establishing a realistic timeline.

A realistic timeline is crucial for effective GMAT preparation, ensuring the prevention of burnout. By spreading out the preparation over an adequate duration, candidates can engage in sustained focus and enthusiasm, thus enhancing their overall performance.

B. Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

Analyzing strengths and weaknesses is crucial for personal and business development. By thoroughly assessing and understanding our strengths, we can uncover hidden potentials and unlock new opportunities. Similarly, recognizing our weaknesses provides us with the chance to improve and grow. This self-analysis not only enables informed decisions but also empowers us to set specific goals that align with our individual growth trajectory. Taking the time to evaluate our strengths and weaknesses is an invaluable investment in our personal and professional journey towards success.

C. Choosing the Right Study Materials

When choosing study materials, evaluate credibility and reputation of sources like publishers, institutions, or professionals. Assess content relevance, organization, and structure. Consider preferred formats: physical textbooks, online resources, video lectures, or interactive platforms. Review feedback from others who have used materials. By carefully evaluating based on credibility, relevance, organization, format, and feedback, make an informed decision and choose materials for learning journey.

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VI. Utilizing Technology for GMAT Prep

A. adaptive learning platforms.

In the realm of individualized education, adaptive learning platforms serve as technological companions in GMAT preparation. These platforms dynamically customize study plans based on individual performance, optimizing the efficiency of learning. The flexibility ensures that candidates concentrate on areas requiring enhancement, maximizing the effectiveness of their study sessions.

B. Mobile Apps for On-the-Go Study

Embracing the true essence of flexibility, mobile applications surface as indispensable tools for GMAT preparation on the move. Ideal for maximizing study opportunities while commuting or taking breaks, these applications cater to the dynamic lifestyles of GMAT test-takers. MBAandBeyond takes this flexibility to the next level by providing carefully selected content and support, ensuring candidates make the most of their busiest moments and maintain consistent and adaptable study schedules.

C. Virtual Tutoring and Study Groups

Breaking the barriers of traditional education, virtual tutoring and study groups bring a sense of community to GMAT preparation. Engaging in these collaborative learning experiences nurtures a shared journey towards a common objective. The exchange of ideas, perspectives, and support within these virtual platforms not only deepens comprehension but also enhances motivation. Portals like GMAT Club and Collegedunia amplify this communal approach by offering tailored resources, expert insights, and a vibrant community, thereby enriching the collaborative learning experience for aspiring GMAT test-takers.

VII. Mastering GMAT Quantitative Skills

A. reviewing fundamental math concepts.

To excel in the Quantitative Reasoning section, it is essential to have a strong understanding of basic math concepts. Candidates should devote time to refreshing their knowledge of these fundamentals, ensuring they have a solid grasp on the fundamental principles necessary for solving more complex problems.

B. Strategies for Tackling Data Sufficiency Questions

Data Sufficiency questions present a unique and engaging challenge. It is crucial to master strategies specific to this question type. Navigating the intricacies of Data Sufficiency effectively requires a realistic understanding of how to approach and dissect these questions.

C. Tips for Improving Problem-Solving Speed

Enhancing problem-solving speed is a multifaceted and engaging goal that requires a realistic approach. It revolves around finding a delicate balance between accuracy and efficiency. Candidates should engage in focused practice, honing their ability to swiftly solve problems without compromising accuracy.

D. Utilizing Technology for Quantitative Practice

Technology becomes a valuable ally in the pursuit of mastering quantitative skills. Interactive and dynamic practice tools, along with AI-driven platforms, offer a comprehensive approach to reinforcing quantitative abilities. These tools actively engage candidates, reflecting the adaptive nature of the GMAT exam and preparing them for its dynamic challenges.

Explore in-depth insights into GMAT Quantitative Skills Mastery with our Conversations with MBA Alumni webinar. Watch the full recording on our YouTube channel.

VIII. Excelling in GMAT Verbal Skills

A. strengthening reading comprehension abilities.

Improving reading comprehension skills is a crucial aspect of excelling in the GMAT Verbal section. This can be accomplished by:

• Focused Practice: Engaging in targeted practice exercises that concentrate on reading comprehension helps to refine the ability to extract essential information and comprehend intricate passages.
• Active Reading Strategies: Employing active reading techniques, such as taking notes and summarizing, enhances understanding and memory of the information presented in GMAT passages.

B. Effective Strategies for Sentence Correction

Developing mastery in sentence correction requires a comprehensive approach, which includes:

• Understanding Grammar Rules: A strong foundation in grammar rules is essential. Candidates should spend time comprehending the intricacies of sentence structure and grammatical conventions.
• Practicing with a Focus on Structure: Engaging in practice exercises that specifically target sentence structure allows candidates to efficiently identify and rectify errors.

C. Analyzing Critical Reasoning Questions

Critical reasoning questions require analytical thinking, and effective analysis strategies include:

• Developing analytical thinking skills: It is crucial for candidates to practice dissecting arguments, identifying premises, conclusions, and logical fallacies.
• Strategic dissection: Strategies for systematically dissecting critical reasoning questions help unravel complex arguments and reach well-reasoned conclusions.

D. Leveraging Technology for Verbal Practice

The usage of technology allows individuals to engage in simplified and more engaging verbal practice. By utilizing interactive apps and online platforms, candidates can focus on specific verbal skills during targeted practice sessions. Furthermore, adaptive learning technologies tailor these practice sessions based on individual performance, optimizing the efficiency of improving verbal skills.

IX. Enhancing Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning

A. understanding the awa section, essay structure and content.

Understanding the AWA section entails familiarizing oneself with the expected essay structure in GMAT. This includes the introduction, body, and conclusion, which should be presented cohesively for a well-constructed response. Additionally, addressing content requirements such as presenting a clear argument and providing relevant examples is crucial for success in the AWA section.

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Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Identifying and avoiding common pitfalls can greatly improve candidates’ performance by helping them steer clear of mistakes. It is essential to recognize these pitfalls to enhance your AWA response and make it more polished and effective.

X. Test-Taking Strategies and Time Management

A. simulating test conditions during practice.

Preparing for the GMAT involves more than just mastering the content; it also requires adapting to the exam environment. By simulating test conditions during practice sessions, candidates can become more familiar with the exam setting, increasing their comfort and confidence on test day.

B. Developing an Efficient Time Management Strategy

Strategic time management is essential for achieving success on the GMAT. Each section requires careful time allocation, and developing an effective strategy ensures that candidates can address every question within the given time frame. Striking the right balance between speed and accuracy is key to achieving optimal results.

C. Recognizing When to Skip and Return to Questions

This tip is a game-changer for test-taking. It’s all about knowing when to leave tough questions and come back to them. This way, you won’t get stuck on hard ones, but instead, you’ll focus on the ones you can handle better. This smart plan helps save time and keeps stress levels low during the exam.

XI. GMAT Updates and Preparation Tips

A. staying informed about gmat updates.

Keeping up-to-date with GMAT changes is a must for test-takers. Checking for updates regularly helps you stay in the loop about any changes to the test format or content. Being proactive about this shows you’re dedicated to being well-prepared and informed.

B. Incorporating New Test Trends into the Study Plan

The GMAT isn’t static; new trends can pop up. Tweaking your study plans to match these trends keeps you ready for the GMAT’s ever-changing landscape. Being open to new strategies and ready for new types of questions is key to staying ahead in the exam.

C. Tips for Adapting to Changes on Short Notice

Things can change suddenly in the GMAT, so being ready to adapt swiftly is key. Having strategies for quick adjustments keeps your prep on track. But don’t just take our word for it, a survey found that 75% of successful test-takers credit their success to their ability to adapt to unexpected changes in the exam.

XII. Continuous Evaluation and Adjustment

A. regular progress assessments.

Checking in on your progress regularly is a smart way to prepare. It helps you spot the areas you need to work on, so you can shift your focus and effort where it’s needed.

B. Modifying the Study Plan Based on Performance

Being flexible is crucial when tweaking your study plan as your needs change. Regular checks help you spot your strong and weak areas, making it easier to make focused adjustments for better prep.

C. Seeking Feedback from Practice Tests

Going over feedback from practice tests is a game-changer for improvement. It helps you figure out what to tweak in your study sessions and shows you where you messed up, so you can nail similar questions next time.

A. Techniques for Managing Test Anxiety

Feeling anxious on test day can affect your performance. Here are some strategies to manage test anxiety:

• Breathing Exercises: Deep breaths can help calm your nerves and keep you focused during the exam.
• Positive Visualization: Imagine success and positive results. This can boost your confidence and lower anxiety.

B. Preparing for the Test Day Logistics

Knowing and preparing for what test day entails can help reduce stress. This includes:

• Getting to Know the Test Center: A visit beforehand can make you feel at ease with the place.
• Preparing Your Stuff: Make sure you have all the necessary items like your ID and admission ticket ready ahead of time.

C. Final Review and Relaxation Strategies

The best final review strategies and relaxation techniques before the exam include

• Focused review: focusing on key concepts and strategies rather than attempting to learn new material.
• Relaxation techniques: such as meditation or gentle exercise, can be used to promote a calm state of mind.

XIV. Post-Test Reflection and Score Improvement

A. analyzing test results.

A comprehensive review of test results is crucial for identifying strong and weak areas. This involves two steps:

• Sectional Analysis: This involves evaluating performance in each section to accurately identify areas that need improvement.
• Question-level Analysis: This process involves an evaluation of performance on each question, allowing for a precise identification of weaknesses.

B. Identifying Areas for Improvement

Improving specific areas based on test performance involves two main steps. First, there’s ‘Weakness Identification’, which is the process of identifying patterns of weaknesses and comprehending their root causes. The second step is ‘Goal Setting’. This entails setting precise objectives to enhance performance in the areas that have been identified as weak.

C. Adjusting Study Plan for a Retake If Necessary

When you need to retake a test, it’s crucial to modify your study plan to focus on any areas you’ve struggled with. This includes:

• Tailoring Techniques: Adjust your study techniques to address your specific areas of difficulty effectively.
• Preparing for a Retake: Develop a timetable for your retake that guarantees enough time for comprehensive enhancement.

XVI. Navigating Exam Registrations and Considerations

A. comprehensive step-by-step guide to gmat/gre registration:.

Are you gearing up to tackle the GMAT or GRE ? The first critical task is to successfully register for the exam. Our in-depth guide simplifies this process with step-by-step instructions for a seamless and easy experience. It covers everything from preparing necessary documents to comprehending unique requirements. Consider this guide your essential tool for an effortless registration process.

• GMAT Focus Edition: Streamlined format emphasizes critical thinking. Ideal for business school aspirations. (Learn more: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-focus-edition )
• GRE General Test: Broader coverage, suitable for various postgraduate programs. (Learn more: https://www.ets.org/ )
• Visit the official website: https://www.mba.com/
• Register with basic information and set a strong password.
• Explore available test centers and dates near you. https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register
• Prioritize weekday mornings for optimal focus and availability.
• Remember, the GMAT Focus Edition is currently offered online and at test centers, while the GRE is mainly test center-based.
• Pay the registration fee using a valid credit card.
• Confirm your appointment and download any necessary preparation materials.

B. Additional Assessments Worth Considering: 

The Roles of TOEFL, IELTS, and Their Importance: The GMAT/GRE are not the only evaluations to take into account in the admissions process. Understand the importance of language proficiency tests such as TOEFL and IELTS.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): For computer-based tests. (Learn more: https://www.ets.org/ )
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Offers computer-delivered and paper-based options. (Learn more: https://ielts.britishcouncil.org/ )

C. Planning Exam Timelines for Multiple Admissions Requirements:

Creating a successful application often requires managing multiple exams simultaneously. Here’s how you can plan your exam schedules strategically to meet the demands of various programs: 1. Begin with Application Deadlines: Determine your exam schedules by starting from the application deadlines and working backwards. This way, you can ensure you have enough time to prepare. 2. Include Extra Time: When scheduling your test dates and applications, factor in additional time to account for any unexpected delays. 3. Prioritize: Concentrate on preparing for one exam at a time. This approach can lead to better results.

XVII. Conclusion

As we set our sights on the horizon of 2024, it is essential that we expect changes and embrace them as shining opportunities for our own personal and professional development. Keenly stay informed, adjust your strategies as necessary, and approach your preparation with the readiness to bend but not break – that is the spirit of resilience.

Remember, beyond the scope of imminent exams and assessments, realize that your journey in academia and beyond does not end here. Your path is an ongoing course, bountiful with chances for self-discovery, learning, and continuous improvement. Always hold on to that fact. As you navigate through life’s challenges and successes, may your journey be filled with growth opportunities that pave the way for you in both personal and professional realms.

In conclusion, here’s wishing you nothing but the very best in your GMAT endeavors. Stay hopeful and keep pushing, for your hard work will not go unnoticed. May your consistent efforts yield triumphant outcomes and open the doors to an array of exciting academic opportunities and fulfilling professional pursuits. Your potential is limitless, and this is just the beginning.

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GMAT AWA Prepar...

GMAT AWA Preparation: Know About Important GMAT AWA Tips in 2024

Business schools around the world require the Graduate Management Admission Test, or GMAT, for admission. The GMAT assesses your proficiency in multi-source data analysis, language, mathematics, geometry, and fundamental arithmetic. The GMAT is broken up into four portions, each of which is scored: Verbal, Quantitative, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing Evaluation.

The GMAT AWA part of the GMAT exam is intended to assess your analytical writing and critical-reasoning abilities. To score well in this section you need thorough preparation and practice. But how and where to start?

In this blog, we will dwell at length on how to prepare for AWA GMAT and provide you with some useful GMAT analytical writing tips to excel in this particular section.

Analytical Writing Assessment: Overview

The GMAT AWA section is all about curating an analytical essay by studying and evaluating the logic behind an argument. It includes a variety of themes, and your scores are determined based on how well you analyze the claim with strong supporting pointers.

In this segment, you have 30 minutes to form your essay. The total GMAT score of 800 does not include the AWA score. It's a different score where the test-taker receives points in increments of 0.5, ranging from 0 to 6. Both a computer and a person will examine and grade your essay.

Now that we have an idea of the structure of the GMAT exam let’s look at how to prepare for GMAT essay, as a thorough GMAT AWA prep will help you stand out amongst your peers.

Suggested: Why is GMAT Required?

How to prepare for the AWA GMAT

Having an overall GMAT preparation is necessary for all the sections. Hence GMAT essay prep is equally important. Here are a few pointers that you may follow that will help you get through the AWA section, with high scores:

• Determine an argument's strengths and weaknesses
• Sketch up your case or reasoning. Find supporting evidence for your argument if the topic is one for an argument essay.
• Learn about the potential essay topics, beforehand. You don’t need to gather technical intelligence just have a basic understanding of the different topics that are asked in the AWA section.
• Check the lists of subjects for earlier AWA essays. Review past years’ AWA topics and questions.
• Write as many essays as you can. This will improve your subject knowledge and help you become faster.
• Always time yourself while writing the essays. This will help you time yourself properly during the actual exam.
• Review practice AWA essay prompts.

Suggested: GMAT AWA Template

Further, let’s take a look at a few books that will help you practice essay writing.

Analytical Writing Assessment GMAT Books

There are several GMAT AWA books in the market to assist applicants with their analytical writing assessment. A few of the books that will aid in your study and help you perform well on the GMAT AWA portion are listed below:

1.  Veritas Prep

Each topic is covered in detail in this book with some additional practice questions. It is among the top books for GMAT preparation because it provides a staggering amount of knowledge and exhaustive practice examinations.

2.  GMAT Analytical Writing: Solutions to the Real Argument Topics (Test Prep series)

It offers expert strategies and streamlined techniques intended to elicit focused responses, contains about 50 solved argument themes, and more.

3.  Complete GMAT Strategy Guide Set: Manhattan Prep

Students will be able to find the answer to their preparation plan with this preparation guide package, which includes over 200 free sample test papers and 6 full-length computer-adaptive mock examinations.

4.  The Official Guide to GMAT Review 2022

The Official Guide to the GMAT Review 2022 provides all the pertinent exam information as well as actual previous GMAT test questions. The bundle contains three books: GMAT Review 2022 Guide, GMAT Quantitative Review 2022 Guide, and GMAT Verbal Review 2022 Guide. All three of these books cover the entire test.

Suggested: Books for GMAT Preparation

Students can succeed in the AWA portion to a great extent with the help of these books. Now let's take a closer look at some GMAT essay tips:

GMAT AWA Tips

It is wise to plan well before writing the GMAT AWA essay and to do a last review of the essay once it is complete. Other than that, mentioned below are a few GMAT writing tips for you:

• Recognize the different types of essay topics.
• Ensure that you comprehend the issue, all of its aspects, and your writing assignment.
• Understand the argument and main points clearly to define the essay's overarching theme.
• Make a decision based on your synopsis.
• When taking practice exams, keep track of your time. This can help you plan out your exam schedule more effectively and cut down on time wasted.
• You'll become speedier the more you practice.
• Your AWA essay should be written in a formal, assured style.  adjectives and adverbs that "lighten" the sharpness of a statement are examples of qualifying language.
• Don't overstuff your essay with descriptive words. Keep your essay brief and avoid stuffing it with words.

Suggested: How to Write AWA in GMAT?

Now that we have these AWA tips GMAT exams let’s look at the dos and don’ts:

• Plagiarism is strictly prohibited. Your essay must be original and to the point.
• Learn about the potential GMAT AWA essay topics by skimming through sample essays on different platforms.
• Expand your ideas. Organize your ideas on your rewritable note board. Use examples and analogies that are well-formulated.
• Your essay response needs to be well-organized, with whole sentences, reasonable changes, and examples that are properly presented and developed.

Suggested: GMAT Self Preparation

To do well on any section of the test, you must start studying early to get the necessary knowledge and confidence. So far as AWA essay topics are concerned, prior practice and preparation are a must. For further guidance and assistance, connect with your Yocket Professionals now!

Frequently Asked Questions About GMAT AWA Preparation

How many questions are there in the AWA section?

There is only one question asked in the AWA section.

How much time is provided to complete the AWA section?

You are required to complete your essay well within 30 minutes.

What is the score range for the AWA section?

The score of the AWA section ranges between 0-6.

What are the different topics of essays asked in the AWA section?

The topics asked in this section are Economics, Politics, Leadership, Education, Social Issues, Marketing, and the Environment.

Is necessary to purchase GMAT AWA books for preparation?

No, it is not necessary but it is helpful. Several sites help you prepare for this section. There are several practice prompts available online for your practice.

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Practice makes perfect—or at least that's how the old saying goes—and it certainly applies to our free GMAT practice questions. Our Free Practice Questions are designed to give you the thorough understanding of how to go about solving a problem that you crave. Our thorough explanations show you what to expect from each GMAT question, detailing question-specific hurdles and common traps. Thankfully, our practice questions provide a wide variety of question types spanning across all sections, securing an abundance of insight-turned-strategy you can implement on test day to turn into high-scoring gold.

Manhattan Review prides itself in providing quality free practice questions to all prospective students, so please take a crack at the 52 free questions we have to offer as a courtesy to all GMAT learners. In the end, the only way to find out where you need your score to be is to discover where it currently is. Take advantage of this free resource that's sure to help you along your way to a high score.

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