Scoring: 0-6 (in half-point increments)
Mastering the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment syllabus requires a blend of strategic preparation and careful execution. Here are some effective strategies and common mistakes to avoid, ensuring you tackle this section with confidence.
Mastering the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section is essential for achieving a competitive score. This guide provides proven strategies to navigate the AWA syllabus effectively. From understanding prompts to structuring responses, these strategies will elevate your performance and help you succeed on the GMAT. Let's Discuss
Dedicate specific study sessions to writing essays within the time constraints of the exam. This habituates you to the pressure and helps refine your time management skills.
Delve into high-scoring AWA essays found on online GMAT resources or preparation materials. Analyze their structure, coherence, and argumentative prowess to glean valuable insights.
Effective essays boast a clear structure, logical flow, and coherent arguments. Strive to emulate these qualities in your practice essays, emphasizing strong arguments supported by relevant examples.
Crafting a standardized essay template can streamline your writing process. Include sections for introduction, body paragraphs with arguments and evidence, and a concise conclusion.
Start with a concise introduction that outlines your stance on the topic. Follow this with well-developed body paragraphs that present your arguments coherently. Finally, wrap up with a summary of your main points in the conclusion.
Avoiding common pitfalls is crucial for success in the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section. This guide highlights key mistakes to steer clear of, ensuring that your essays are clear, coherent, and impactful. By understanding these pitfalls, you can enhance your performance and maximize your score on the GMAT.
1. Use of Informal Language and Colloquial Expressions
Maintain a formal tone throughout your essay, avoiding slang or informal language. Opt for precise vocabulary and sentence structures to convey your ideas effectively.
2. Grammatical Errors and Typos
Carefully proofread your essays to eliminate grammatical errors and typos. Attention to detail reflects your professionalism and enhances the clarity of your arguments.
3. Deviation from the Given Prompt
Stay focused on addressing the specific argument or topic provided in the prompt. Straying off-topic can lead to disjointed arguments and lower scores.
4. Straying off-Topic
Ensure your essay remains tightly aligned with the prompt. Tangential discussions detract from the coherence of your argument and may impact your score negatively.
The table below showcases Strategies vs. Mistakes:
Strategies | Common Mistakes |
---|---|
Practice Under Timed Conditions | Use of Informal Language and Colloquial Expressions |
Analyze GMAT Sample Papers | Grammatical Errors and Typos |
Pay Attention to Essay Structure and Coherence | Deviation from the Given Prompt |
Develop a Template for Essay Writing | Straying off-Topic |
Introduction, Body, and Conclusion Structure |
When it comes to preparing for the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section, having the right resources at your disposal can make a significant difference. The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment Syllabus evaluates your ability to construct well-reasoned arguments and communicate effectively through writing. To help you excel in this section, we have compiled a comprehensive list of resources that will aid in your GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment Syllabus preparation.
From GMAT prep books to online courses and practice tests, these resources offer valuable insights, strategies, and practice materials to enhance your essay-writing skills. Whether you're a beginner or looking to fine-tune your existing abilities, these resources will equip you with the necessary tools and techniques to tackle the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment Syllabus with confidence.
MBA.com is the official website for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), the globally recognized entrance exam for graduate business programs. Managed by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), MBA.com serves as a comprehensive resource hub for aspiring business school students.
1. gmat prep books.
Books like "The Official Guide for GMAT Review" and "GMAT Advanced Quant" by GMAC provide practice essay prompts and tips for tackling the AWA section. GMAT prep books specifically dedicated to AWA can provide valuable insights and guidance. Look for books that offer strategies, essay prompts, and sample essays for practice.
Online courses designed for GMAT preparation often include specific modules or sections focusing on the AWA section. These courses provide video lessons, interactive exercises, and practice essay prompts. They also offer personalized feedback on your essay writing skills, helping you identify areas for improvement.
Practice tests are essential for familiarizing yourself with the AWA section and simulating the actual exam experience. Many GMAT prep providers offer full-length practice tests that include AWA essay prompts. Taking these tests under timed conditions will help you manage your time effectively and develop a comfortable writing pace. When you click on the link, it will take you to the GMAT practice page. Explore the GMAT practice page here.
Utilize online writing platforms such as Grammarly or Hemingway to improve your writing skills, grammar, and sentence structure.
Many GMAT prep courses, like those offered by Kaplan, Manhattan Prep, and Veritas Prep, include guidance and practice for the AWA section.
Explore writing guides and books focused on essay writing techniques, such as "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White.
Specialized AWA prep services like Magoosh AWA Guide and others provide tips, sample essays, and strategies tailored to this section.
Ready to excel in the GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)? You can consult an expert to craft impactful essays that can set you apart. Take the first step toward mastering your AWA performance – connect with us today!
The GMAT analytical writing assessment syllabus tests your ability to think critically, express ideas clearly, and construct persuasive arguments. You will have 30 minutes to respond to one essay prompt. Key skills include expressing ideas effectively, using examples to support arguments, and critically analyzing given arguments. To succeed, practice writing timed essays, analyze sample essays, and create a template for structuring your responses.
Does the GMAT Focus Edition still have the Analytical Writing part?
Yes, the GMAT Focus Edition still includes the Analytical Writing part.
The GMAT Focus Edition is designed to assess the skills necessary for success in business school, and the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is an important part of this. In the AWA section, you'll be asked to write an essay analyzing an argument. This section tests your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas clearly and effectively.
The AWA section is 30 minutes long, and you’ll need to evaluate the reasoning behind a given argument and write a critique. Your essay will be scored by both a human grader and a computer-based grading system. They will look at how well you organize your thoughts, the clarity and logic of your argument, and your ability to use language effectively.
For many students, the AWA can seem intimidating, but with practice, you can improve your writing skills.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare:
Practice Writing Essays: Regular practice can help you get comfortable with the format and timing. Try writing a few practice essays under timed conditions.
Review Sample Essays: Look at high-scoring essays to understand what makes them effective. Pay attention to how they structure their arguments and the kinds of examples they use.
Develop a Template: Create a basic structure for your essays that you can adapt to different topics. This can save you time during the test.
Read Critically: Improve your analytical skills by reading editorials and opinion pieces in newspapers and magazines. Practice identifying the strengths and weaknesses in the arguments presented.
Get Feedback: If possible, have someone review your practice essays and provide feedback. This can help you identify areas for improvement.
Remember, the AWA is just one part of the GMAT, but it’s a great opportunity to showcase your critical thinking and writing skills. Good luck with your preparation!
Your GMAT score is critical to helping you stand out above the crowd when it comes to your college admission application. More than 10 million students apply to college each year, and you’re judged largely on the success of your Graduate Management Admission Test. So how do you improve your GMAT score? You need to study and prepare of course. If only it were that easy though…
It’s not about the time you invest; it’s how you use that time effectively. Here are 16 guidelines, tips and tricks that you can follow to improve your GMAT score.
Table of Contents
There is a correlation between time spent preparing for the GMAT and the final score. Most participants spend about 50 hours studying for the GMAT. Others spend over 200 hours. While more time does generally show higher test scores, there are some underlying factors.
Endless resources are available online between practice tests and prep books that will help you study for the GMAT. Knowing this, you might be wondering “how many prep books do I need to complete for the GMAT?” Or, “how long does a GMAT prep book take to finish?
The answer would be that a GMAT prep book can take over 30 hours. Does this mean if you go through two prep books in 60+ hours you’ll be studying better than the majority who spend an average of around 50 hours? No. If you thought that, you couldn’t be more wrong.
While more studying generally leads to higher results, those who study more are typically better at studying. You can spend hundreds of hours pouring over prep books to prepare. However, that’s not the best way to study for the GMAT.
Sure, you can cover more topics in 200 hours than the average of 50 hours, but that’s not necessarily going to lead to higher test results. The top scorers on the GMAT spend on average over 120 hours, however, efficiency is key.
To improve your GMAT score you’ll want to take the official GMAT prep test to see where you stand today. From there, you can focus on the different strategies explained below to improve your GMAT score efficiently and effectively.
We’ve assembled 16 tips below that will teach you how to get the best possible score on your GMAT test.
The first thing you need to do if you’re trying to get a better GMAT score is to set a target . Take a look at the schools you’re looking to get admitted to and find the average GMAT score for each school.
Once you have a target score to surpass, you can determine the necessary steps and habits required to create an adequate study plan that will help you achieve your goals.
Everyone has heard that setting goals helps achieve them, but how useful are they?
A study published to the American Psychological Association concluded an increase in the value of output at nearly 18%. Imagine improving your GMAT score almost 20% just from setting goals? Now we’re not saying that’s what will happen, but by creating goals and using these expert tips will make a significant positive difference in your test results.
Using your results from the aforementioned GMAT prep test you can identify your strengths and weaknesses. This helps you to enhance your strengths, but more importantly your weaknesses.
The things you are best at will often be exceptional, but improving the areas in which you struggle offers the most opportunity for GMAT score improvement.
That doesn’t mean you should avoid practicing areas where you excel. In fact, you should dedicate time to studying them directly. It’s the way you study these areas that should change. We’ll cover some of these differences in relevant tips below.
The most important thing when preparing for the GMAT is the same thing that’s key to achieving anything… consistency.
To score better on the GMAT, you need a plan. Dedicate time daily to both the strengths and weaknesses you’ve identified, however breaking them up is recommended. First, hone your top skills, then spend significant time focusing on the areas of struggle.
Break up each segment into individual days at the beginning of your studying. Spend a few days on some math concepts, another few on grammar and writing prompts, etc. This way you can get a grasp on everything before zooming through resources touching on each area briefly.
Having a balanced study habit is ideal but some areas require more practice for some individuals than others. Allocating your time towards narrow topics will help you understand better than going back and forth between different subjects.
Here are a few sample study plans to get you started, depending on how much time you have left to improve your GMAT score: One Month , Two Month , Three Month GMAT Study Plans.
Following your study preparation plan for the GMAT, you’ll want to prioritize getting to know the format. Understanding how questions are laid out will help you study, and also perform better on the test.
A formula one race-car driver doesn’t head to the Monaco Grand Prix without practicing on the track to race at 200+ mph. They study every corner, every turn, for hours and hours. A PGA tour pro doesn’t show up for the Masters without practicing on the golf course. They know every hill, every green, studying for hours and hours.
The GMAT is no different.
Knowing what you’re dealing with helps reduce any shock or anxiety during test day. It also plays a pivotal role in studying. Practicing with the right equipment ensures you know how to use the equipment.
Improving the areas where you struggle will ultimately take the most time. Allocate a significant proportion of this time to improving your weaknesses.
You will naturally excel in some areas and struggle in others. Making your weaknesses just ‘average’ when combining them with your strengths helps ensure an above-average score.
As we’ve mentioned above, these weaknesses also offer the most opportunity for a GMAT score improvement.
You’ve set goals, identified strengths and weaknesses, and know the format that lies ahead. Next is studying.
Only use high-quality and official resources presented by the GMAC (General Management Admissions Council). This makes certain that what you’re studying will be as close to the real GMAT questions as possible.
The Princeton Review offers possibly the best prep course in a self-paced environment, but there are so many accredited resources to choose from. Find the one best suited to your learning environment but make sure it is official and high-quality.
Studying with second-tier resources results in second-tier test scores. High-quality resources lead to a better understanding of each subject and an overall higher GMAT score.
Reviewing every wrong answer is one of the most critical preparation tactics you can use. It goes beyond finding and understanding the correct answer though. This is a common mistake that most test takers make.
For a better GMAT score, take the time to go through each possible answer and identify why the others were wrong. Knowing the right answer is important, but knowing why the others were wrong will help you the most.
Always remember that the GMAT is not about finding the perfect answer, it’s about finding the best answer. Knowing why an answer is wrong helps you eliminate answers right from the start. Having to choose between fewer options immediately raises the odds of you choosing the correct answer.
People hate making mistakes, but mistakes are beneficial for learning and memory.
A study published in the Journal Memory found that making mistakes helps remember the correct answer. Science Daily quoted the lead researcher stating “our research found evidence that mistakes that are a ‘near miss’ can help a person learn the information better than if no errors were made at all.”
In essence, the study found that making a mistake on something you’ve studied for and prepared for (have an understanding of) will make it more likely you’ll remember the correct answer in the long run.
If you want to improve your score on the GMAT, reviewing and correcting every mistake goes a long, long way.
By practicing under realistic test conditions you give yourself the ability to be cool, calm, and collected when it comes to taking the GMAT. Being comfortable is key to your mental performance.
And while the GMAT can be incredibly stressful, there’s no need to take on any additional points of stress.
To simulate GMAT conditions, take the prep test at one time with your breaks set up like the real test would be. Don’t use google, prep books, or other resources that you won’t have access to on test day. Also, refrain from using a calculator.
Lastly, consider preparing in quiet environments without interruptions. If you struggle with focusing, try doing some prep tests in new and unfamiliar places to get comfortable with people shuffling around you. This could be a library or even just different areas of your home.
You have approximately 2 minutes per question across the GMAT. Keep this in mind throughout your prep sessions. When you finish a prep test you will see your score report.
If you want to improve your GMAT score, write down the different times you spent on each section.
Your time spent on each section is critically important to your score, so practicing your pace of completion should be at the front of your mind. Simply checking the clock every few questions will help you recognize your current pace and keep you on track. Pick a number of questions you’re comfortable with and check the clock regularly after that amount of questions passes.
Another important note with your pacing is recognizing the areas you’re strong in, and struggle with. Correlate your score with the time you spent on each section. If you score extremely high on the integrated reasoning section , make sure you allocate the time you need to replicate that score on the real GMAT.
Scoring high but using up too much time that could go to an area of weakness can easily result in a lesser test score. This is why knowing about your strengths is vital.
On the other hand, if you struggle with something and it takes a considerable amount of time, you know that you’ll need to practice more to achieve a better score in less time.
Instead of taking prep test after prep test, you’ll want to drill certain things into your brain. This is why it’s always recommended that you focus on just a few concepts for consecutive days, aiding in memorization.
This doesn’t necessarily mean practicing calculus all day for an entire week, but spending considerable amounts of time studying calculus for several days. Taking breaks is needed for memorization and learning, so we recommend taking some time on each math concept every day for a few hours at the same time of day.
Spending 1-2 hours every morning on calculus will make it significantly easier on the brain than say 6 hours of calculus. Once again, consistency is the key.
You will be able to see on your prep test results which category each question falls into. Note your scores on all categories be it algebra, geometry, statistics, etc, to identify any areas of weakness that you should focus on more heavily.
This leads to the next point.
Don’t even think about stopping your studying until you know the formulas like the back of your hand. This tip is really important, but there’s not much to it. You’ve got to put in the time and know them.
Practice, practice, practice!
Beyond the formulas, recognize and remember tips and tricks to speed up your time.
Also, take advantage of estimating. If you can estimate a number or calculation quickly, you can eliminate wrong answers and quite possibly solve a question much faster than working through a solution.
As we mentioned previously, you can see your results on prep tests to determine areas of struggle. Drill those formulas into your brain.
You can’t use a calculator on your GMAT , so why would you practice with one? Getting the right answer on a prep test is meaningless if you can’t do it under real GMAT conditions.
Try and never use your calculator, even when you’re not studying. Get used to doing calculations in your head during your regular day and it’ll be second nature come test day.
Just like with math concepts, getting familiar with writing prompts takes time. Luckily there are resources where you can practice your Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) . This section gauges your ability to think critically and efficiently communicate those thoughts.
Get familiar with the formatting and practice prompts to improve your written communication. Use this resource for writing sample guidelines for the GMAT . We break down how the AWA of the GMAT is scored , describe essay prompts, give style guide/writing suggestions, and provide sample essays and practice prompts.
Studying writing prompts from previous years is another GMAT preparation tip that will help improve your test scores. You can find 32 pages of prompts here , an invaluable resource.
What better way to know what to expect on the GMAT than looking at past GMAT questions?
The verbal section of the GMAT takes approximately 60 minutes to read. Practicing your reading with academic writings, novels, and business publications or news.
Writing down a list of words you’ve never seen before helps to improve your vocabulary. Although the GMAT doesn’t test your vocabulary directly, this habit will help you build a better vocabulary for yourself. The more academic words you know, the higher chance you will understand any written questions on the GMAT.
You only have 30 minutes to complete a writing sample in the analytical writing assessment section. This leads to many test takers rushing to begin writing immediately.
Creating a system for outlining your essay is an essential step for all writers to complete their best work. By practicing outlining you will build a much better essay structure helping you communicate your thoughts effectively and professionally.
Just using 3 or 5 minutes to plan your key points will reduce the time of your overall writing. It also helps keep a clear mindset as you cover each point when you know exactly what to focus on now, and next.
When it comes to getting a higher score on your GMAT, you’ll need to put in the time. These tips will ensure that you use your time best, learning the things y ou need to know.
Set a goal, create a plan, and study right. What everyone can do in the time they spend studying is vastly different between person to person. What you can do to get ahead of the competition is to study better. Improve the areas you struggle with and lean into your strengths.
This article has given you the tools for you to succeed on your admission test and outshine your peers. By combining the hours of practice with an intelligent strategy and study plan, you’re certain to improve your GMAT score.
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The GMAT essay, also known as the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), is a section of the GMAT exam that can often be intimidating for test-takers. However, with the right preparation and understanding of the essay topics, test-takers can excel and achieve a high score.
The AWA section is designed to evaluate the test-taker's ability to analyse arguments, express ideas clearly and concisely, and support their viewpoints with evidence. This section consists of two types of essay prompts, an Analysis of an Issue and an Analysis of an Argument, each of which requires specific skills and strategies.
In this article, we will provide expert examples of both types of GMAT essay topics and tips on how to approach them to help you achieve a high-scoring performance in the AWA section.
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The GMAT essay, also known as the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), is a section of the GMAT exam that requires you to write two essays within a total of 60 minutes.
There are two types of essay prompts in the GMAT AWA section:
In this type of essay prompt, you will be given an argument that you need to analyse and critique. You will be required to identify the assumptions that the argument makes and evaluate the evidence that it provides. You will need to explain why the argument is flawed or weak and suggest ways to improve it.
In this type of essay prompt, you will be given a statement or question related to a social or political issue, and you will be asked to take a stance on the issue and support your position with evidence and examples. You will need to provide a clear argument and present evidence that supports your viewpoint.
Also read: 5 IELTS Sample Essays
The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment section assesses your ability to analyse arguments and communicate your thoughts effectively in written form. In this section, you are presented with an argument or an issue prompt and are required to critically evaluate and provide a well-structured response within a given time frame.
Although the AWA section is not as heavily weighted as the Quantitative and Verbal sections, it still plays a role in showcasing your analytical abilities and written communication skills to business schools. A well-written essay in the AWA section can leave a positive impression on the admissions committee and contribute to your overall application.
GMAT practice questions provide an opportunity to develop and refine your critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills. By engaging with a variety of prompts, you can familiarise yourself with different argument structures, evaluate evidence, and effectively express your ideas within the given time constraint.
We have listed ten GMAT sample questions that cover a range of topics and argument types to challenge you to analyse arguments, identify flaws, consider counterarguments, and develop well-structured responses.
GMAT sample question #1
The following appeared in a company memo:
Our new advertising campaign was a great success. The number of customers visiting our website increased by 50% in the first month after the campaign's launch. Therefore, the campaign should be credited with attracting new customers and boosting sales.' Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your discussion, analyse the argument's assumptions and evidence.
GMAT sample question #2
The following appeared in a research paper:
Implementing a four-day workweek will significantly enhance employee productivity. A survey conducted among companies that adopted a shorter workweek showed a 20% increase in employee output and a 15% decrease in absenteeism rates. Therefore, all organisations should consider adopting a four-day workweek to boost efficiency.' Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your discussion, analyse the argument's assumptions and evidence.
GMAT sample question #3
The following appeared in a political campaign speech:
Increasing the minimum wage will improve the economy and reduce income inequality. Studies have shown that when the minimum wage is raised, low-income workers experience a rise in their earnings, leading to increased consumer spending. As a result, businesses thrive, unemployment rates decrease, and the wealth gap narrows. Therefore, it is imperative to raise the minimum wage to stimulate economic growth.' Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your discussion, analyse the argument's assumptions and evidence.
GMAT sample question #4
The following appeared in a blog post:
Investing in early childhood education is crucial for fostering future academic success. Research has consistently shown that children who receive quality early education perform better academically and are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education. Therefore, policymakers should prioritise funding and expanding early childhood education programs.' Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your discussion, analyse the argument's assumptions and evidence.
GMAT sample question #5
The following appeared in a marketing presentation:
Social media marketing is the most effective strategy for reaching and engaging with the target audience. A survey conducted among consumers revealed that 75% of respondents made a purchase based on social media ads or recommendations from influencers. Therefore, companies should allocate a significant portion of their marketing budget to social media campaigns to maximise their reach and sales.' Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your discussion, analyse the argument's assumptions and evidence.
GMAT sample question #6
Prompt: Evaluate the argument that increasing taxes on sugary beverages will effectively reduce the prevalence of obesity and improve public health. Discuss the key assumptions and evidence used to support this claim, and identify any potential counterarguments or limitations that may challenge the effectiveness of this approach.
In your analysis, you should consider the relationship between sugary beverage consumption and obesity rates, as well as the potential impact of higher taxes on consumer behaviour. Additionally, assess the strength of the evidence presented to support the argument and examine any potential flaws or biases in the data. Consider alternative approaches to tackling obesity, such as education campaigns or regulations on advertising, and discuss their potential advantages or disadvantages. Ultimately, evaluate the argument's overall persuasiveness and suggest any additional evidence or considerations that could strengthen or weaken the case for increased taxes on sugary beverages.
GMAT sample question #7
Prompt: Analyse the argument that social media platforms should be held legally responsible for moderating user-generated content. Evaluate the reasons and evidence presented to support this viewpoint, and discuss the potential consequences of imposing legal obligations on these platforms. Consider issues such as freedom of speech, platform liability, and the challenges of content moderation at scale. Additionally, explore alternative approaches to addressing harmful or illegal content online and discuss their potential advantages or drawbacks. Finally, assess the feasibility and potential effectiveness of different regulatory or self-regulatory measures in ensuring a safe and responsible online environment.
GMAT sample question #8
Prompt: Evaluate the argument that increasing access to higher education will lead to greater socioeconomic mobility and reduce income inequality. Analyse the evidence and reasoning used to support this claim, and consider potential counterarguments or limitations to this approach. Assess the impact of factors such as rising tuition costs, disparities in educational quality, and the relevance of certain degrees in the job market. Explore alternative strategies for promoting social mobility, such as vocational training or income redistribution, and discuss their potential advantages or disadvantages. Ultimately, critically examine the argument's validity and provide recommendations or additional considerations that may strengthen or weaken the case for increasing access to higher education.
GMAT sample question #9
Prompt: Analyse the argument that the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture is essential for ensuring global food security. Evaluate the evidence and reasoning presented to support this claim, and discuss any potential counterarguments or concerns related to the environmental, health, or socioeconomic impacts of GMOs. Assess the effectiveness of current regulations and labelling practices in addressing these concerns, and explore alternative approaches to achieving food security, such as organic farming or agroecology. Finally, critically evaluate the overall persuasiveness of the argument and provide recommendations or additional considerations that may enhance or challenge the case for GMO usage.
GMAT sample question #10
Prompt: Evaluate the argument that implementing a universal basic income (UBI) would be an effective solution to address poverty and income inequality. Analyse the evidence and reasoning used to support this viewpoint, and consider potential counterarguments or limitations of a UBI system. Assess the economic implications, including funding mechanisms and potential effects on workforce participation and productivity. Explore alternative policies or approaches to poverty alleviation, such as targeted welfare programs or job creation initiatives, and discuss their potential advantages or disadvantages. Ultimately, critically examine the argument's validity and provide recommendations or additional considerations that may strengthen or weaken the case for implementing a universal basic income.
Some common topics that may be covered in the GMAT essays include:
Also read: TOEFL sample essays
Also Read: GMAT Self-Study Plan
Here are some expert tips to help you achieve a high-scoring performance on the GMAT essay.
The first step to writing a successful GMAT essay is to understand the prompt and the task. Take the time to read the prompt carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked of you. Pay close attention to the specific instructions, such as the length requirement, the number of examples you need to provide, and the time limit.
Before you start writing, take a few minutes to plan your essay. This will help you organise your thoughts and ensure that your essay is well-structured and easy to follow. Create an outline that includes your main points and supporting evidence, and make sure that your essay has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
For the Analysis of an Argument task, carefully analyse the argument presented in the prompt. Identify the assumptions and evidence used to support the argument, and consider whether these are valid and sufficient. For the Analysis of an Issue task, consider both sides of the issue and identify the strengths and weaknesses of each argument.
To support your arguments, use specific examples from your own experiences or the world around you. These examples should be relevant and support the points you are making in your essay. Be sure to explain how each example supports your argument.
The GMAT essay is not a test of your writing ability per se, but rather a test of your ability to analyze and evaluate arguments and express your ideas in a clear and concise manner. Use simple and straightforward language, avoid overly complex sentences or jargon, and be sure to proofread your essay for grammatical errors and spelling mistakes.
The GMAT essay should follow a standard essay format, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Your introduction should provide an overview of your argument, while your body should provide supporting evidence and examples. Your conclusion should summarise your main points and restate your thesis statement concisely.
Like any skill, the ability to write a successful GMAT essay takes practice. Take advantage of the practice exams and sample essays provided by GMAC, the organisation that administers the GMAT exam. Consider working with a tutor or taking a prep course to help you improve your essay writing skills.
Articles related to GMAT Exam
The GMAT essay is an important part of the GMAT exam and requires careful preparation and planning. By following these expert tips, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score on the GMAT essay and increase your chances of being accepted into your dream MBA program.
The GMAT essay, also known as the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), is a section of the GMAT exam that assesses a candidate's ability to think critically and communicate ideas in written form.
The GMAT essay is scored on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. Two independent readers will score the essay, and if their scores differ by more than one point, a third reader will be brought in to resolve the discrepancy.
To prepare for the GMAT essay, candidates can practise writing essays using free GMAT essay prompts available online, develop a plan before writing, use specific examples to support their arguments and practise good grammar and syntax.
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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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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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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:
Recommended Free Mock Paper Links:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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:
Developing mastery in sentence correction requires a comprehensive approach, which includes:
Critical reasoning questions require analytical thinking, and effective analysis strategies include:
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.
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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Feeling anxious on test day can affect your performance. Here are some strategies to manage test anxiety:
Knowing and preparing for what test day entails can help reduce stress. This includes:
The best final review strategies and relaxation techniques before the exam include
A. analyzing test results.
A comprehensive review of test results is crucial for identifying strong and weak areas. This involves two steps:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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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A comprehensive guide to essay writing.
Essay writing is a crucial skill that students need to master in order to succeed academically. Whether you’re a high school student working on a history paper or a college student tackling a critical analysis essay, having a solid understanding of the essay writing process is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential tips and tricks that will help you improve your essay writing skills. From generating ideas and organizing your thoughts to crafting a strong thesis statement and polishing your final draft, we’ve got you covered.
Not only that, but we’ll also provide you with useful templates that you can use as a framework for your essays. These templates will help you structure your writing, stay focused on your main argument, and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.
Essay writing can be a challenging task for many students, but with the right guidance and tips, you can improve your writing skills and produce high-quality essays. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with valuable advice, tricks, and templates to help you excel in your essay writing endeavors.
1. Understand the Prompt: Before you start writing your essay, make sure you fully understand the prompt or question. Analyze the requirements and key points that need to be addressed in your essay.
2. Create an Outline: Organize your ideas and thoughts by creating a detailed outline for your essay. This will help you structure your arguments and ensure a logical flow of information.
3. Research Thoroughly: Conduct extensive research on your topic to gather relevant information and evidence to support your arguments. Use credible sources and cite them properly in your essay.
4. Write Clearly and Concisely: Avoid using jargon or complex language in your essay. Write in a clear and concise manner to convey your ideas effectively to the reader.
5. Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your essay, make sure to proofread and edit it carefully. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and ensure that your essay flows cohesively.
By following these ultimate essay writing guides, you can enhance your writing skills and produce outstanding essays that will impress your instructors and peers. Practice regularly and seek feedback to continuously improve your writing abilities.
1. Understand the Assignment: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the assignment guidelines and requirements. If you have any doubts, clarify them with your instructor.
2. Conduct Thorough Research: Gather relevant sources and information to support your arguments. Make sure to cite your sources properly and use credible sources.
3. Create a Strong Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement should clearly outline the main point of your essay and guide your readers on what to expect.
4. Organize Your Ideas: Create an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of ideas in your essay.
5. Write Clearly and Concisely: Use clear, concise language and avoid unnecessary jargon or complex sentences. Be direct and to the point.
6. Revise and Edit: Always proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors. Revise your work to ensure coherence and clarity.
7. Seek Feedback: Ask a peer or instructor to review your essay and provide constructive feedback for improvement.
8. Use Proper Formatting: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your instructor, such as font size, margins, and citation style.
9. Stay Focused: Keep your essay focused on the main topic and avoid going off on tangents. Stick to your thesis statement.
10. Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice writing essays, the better you will get at it. Keep practicing and refining your writing skills.
Improving your writing skills can be a challenging but rewarding process. Here are some tricks to help you become a better writer:
1. Read widely: Reading a variety of genres and styles can help you develop your own voice and writing style.
2. Practice regularly: The more you write, the better you will become. Set aside time each day to practice writing.
3. Get feedback: Share your writing with others and ask for constructive criticism. Feedback can help you identify areas for improvement.
4. Study grammar and punctuation: Good writing requires a solid understanding of grammar and punctuation rules. Take the time to study and practice these essential skills.
5. Edit and revise: Writing is a process, and editing is an important part of that process. Take the time to edit and revise your work to improve clarity and coherence.
6. Experiment with different writing techniques: Try experimenting with different writing techniques, such as using metaphors, similes, or descriptive language, to enhance your writing.
7. Stay inspired: Find inspiration in the world around you. Whether it’s nature, art, or literature, draw inspiration from your surroundings to fuel your writing.
By following these tricks and practicing regularly, you can improve your writing skills and become a more confident and effective writer.
When it comes to writing an essay, having a clear and structured template can be incredibly helpful. Here are some step-by-step essay writing templates that you can use to guide you through the process:
When it comes to writing a top-notch essay, it’s essential to follow expert advice to ensure your work stands out. Here are some key tips to help you elevate your writing:
1. Start with a strong thesis statement that clearly outlines your main argument.
2. Conduct thorough research to support your points with credible sources.
3. Organize your thoughts logically and ensure your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.
4. Use a variety of sentence structures and vocabulary to keep your writing engaging.
5. Proofread and edit your essay carefully to eliminate errors and refine your arguments.
By following these expert tips, you can take your essay writing skills to the next level and produce work that is both informative and compelling.
When it comes to improving your essay writing skills, there are a variety of resources available to help you enhance your process. Here are some valuable resources that can aid you in becoming a more effective and efficient writer:
By taking advantage of these resources, you can enhance your essay writing process and become a more skilled and confident writer.
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The 11 best gmat reading comprehension strategies.
The reading comprehension part of the GMAT Verbal section can be intimidating at first. You have to glean key ideas and information from dense, jargon-filled passages, which probably don’t resemble the kinds of articles you read for fun.
Luckily, whether you love these kinds of passage-based questions or they fill your heart with dread, there are a number of tried-and-true strategies that you can use to improve your score. In this post, we’ll give you all the tips and tricks you need to ace GMAT reading comprehension —including how to approach the passages overall, how to attack the questions, and how to pace yourself so that you spend just the right amount of time on them.
You always have 36 questions in total on the GMAT Verbal Section. Of those, you’ll encounter about three or four reading comprehension passages, each with three to four multiple-choice questions associated with it. So that makes for 9-16 reading comprehension questions, or roughly one-third of the GMAT Verbal section devoted to reading comprehension.
Within that, there will usually be three “short” passages of 200-250 words with three questions, and one “long” passage of 300-350 words with four questions. Occasionally, you might get two of each. The passages are sourced from textbooks, journals, periodicals, scholarly articles and the like, and they center on topics from the natural and social sciences, the humanities, and the business world. Note that no outside knowledge is expected in any of these domains —all the information you will need to answer the questions is in the passages themselves.
The GMAT uses a split-screen presentation for reading comprehension questions: the passage is presented in its entirety on the left side of the screen, while the questions associated with it are presented one-by-one on the right side. This means that you can always see the passage, but you can only see one question at a time. Plus, as with every other section and question type on the GMAT, you cannot go back to the previous question —your answer, once you click “next,” is final.
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The reading comprehension questions on the GMAT are designed to test your ability to “understand, analyze, and apply information and concepts presented in written form”. Within this, you’ll need to:
The GMAT uses a few distinct question styles to test these different skills, all of which we discuss in the next section!
Reading comprehension questions on the GMAT focus on your ability to understand the given passage on either a micro/”little picture” level or macro/”big picture” level. Accordingly, all the reading comprehension questions you’ll encounter on the GMAT will fall into one of the following categories.
Main idea questions ask you to summarize the passage as a whole or to identify the author’s overall purpose in writing the passage. You might see questions asking you to pick out the “central” or “main” idea or asking you what the author was “primarily concerned with.”
Often, the answer choices given don’t use exactly the same language as the passage itself: they want to see that you really understand the main idea, as evidenced by being able to recognize it even when it’s phrased differently. They especially want to see that you can recognize the macro-organization of a passage and not get derailed by details or sub-topics.
Conversely, details questions do ask you to identify facts, details, descriptions or sub-topics . The details they ask about will always be explicitly stated , and sometimes the relevant part(s) of the passage will be highlighted to make it easier for you to find it. Thus, they’re often the easiest (or at least the most face-value) questions in a given set. They begin with phrases like “According to the passage” and “the passage states that.”
Inference questions, on the other hand, ask you to identify what is implied by the author but not explicitly stated. Rather than “the passage states that,” these kinds of questions will begin with something like “the passage suggests that,” so you immediately know that you’ll need to connect the dots yourself. Nevertheless, the correct answer is always supported by the passage .
Out-of-context questions ask you to apply information from the passage to a different context . They often ask you to identify a parallel situation or analogous example. You’ll also see out-of-context questions asking whether the author would agree or disagree with something. Unlike inference questions, out-of-context questions use ideas or situations that aren’t from the passage.
Logical structure questions center on function . Sometimes you’ll be asked to assess how a passage is constructed (does it define an idea, compare and contrast, refute an idea, etc.); other times you’ll be asked to recognize underlying assumptions, strengths, and weaknesses of the passage’s argument—as well as potential counterarguments.
Also falling under this category are questions that ask how the author persuades the reader —as opposed to what the author is persuading the reader of (which is more of a main idea question).
Style and tone questions ask you about the author’s expression of ideas through diction, or word choice . You may have to deduce the author’s attitude toward a specific idea he/she brings up or identify the tone of the passage as a whole. Words like “critical” and “enthusiastic” often appear in the answer options for these kinds of questions.
Now that you’re familiar with the kinds of passages and questions that you’ll see, let’s talk about the order in which you should approach them.
The first option is to read the entire passage first, then attack each question. The second option is to read the first question first—just the question, not the answer choices—to get an initial idea of what you’re looking for before you start reading the passage. Feel free to practice both ways to see which one works best for you.
Ultimately, though, I recommend reading the passage first .
Why? Because you’re only able to see one question at a time on the GMAT. You might be able to skim the passage with that first question in mind and get to the right answer, but then the next question could be on a completely different facet of the passage, and you’ll be ill-prepared to answer it. Moreover, even a question that seems to be specific to one detail probably requires a holistic understanding of the passage in order to answer it correctly.
Nest up, let’s go over the best GMAT reading comprehension strategies for attacking the passages . After that, we’ll talk about the best GMAT reading comprehension tips for answering the questions, and then we’ll put all of this into action on a few of the real, official GMAT sample questions.
The Verbal section gives you 65 minutes for 36 questions, or a little under two minutes per question. But reading comprehension questions are going to take a bit longer than the critical reasoning questions, and significantly longer than the sentence correction questions. You should budget enough time to read these passages carefully —rather than skimming—in order to absorb all the important ideas and details.
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That said, you don’t want to spend a ton of time decoding each word or sentence. If you really don’t “get” a sentence, don’t read over it more than twice , because you’ll lose a feel for the passage as a whole—you can come back to it if you need to for a specific question.
Plan your time accordingly: A good rule of thumb is to spend six minutes on a short passage with three questions, and eight minutes on a long passage with four questions . Two to three minutes should be spent on the initial reading, and the rest should be spent on the questions (including time to refer back to the passage as needed).
While you’re doing practice questions, consistently set a timer to get used to the recommended pace. This way, you can get timing down to an instinct before you take the real GMAT.
Transition words track the relationship among ideas—as well as among the bits of reasoning and evidence that support or negate them. There are five main categories of transition words that you should know and recognize for the GMAT:
Paying close attention to these words will help you follow the logical progression of a passage as you’re reading. Unless the passage actually centers on defining a concept, understanding the relationship among ideas and the author’s train of thought as the passage goes on is more important than doing a deep dive into what the ideas actually mean.
This is especially true if a passage is heavy in jargon (like natural science ones often are): the GMAT doesn’t care if you understand what “suprachiasmatic nuclei” is. They care that you can understand the role it plays in the passage’s main idea or thesis.
Along these lines, you should abbreviate jargon and technical terms in your mind as you read. Any time you see a long technical term, a Latinate scientific name, or something similar, you should mentally shorten it to the first syllable. If it’s more than one word, abbreviate it into its initials. Either way, let your eyes gloss over the rest of the letters.
Many questions will abbreviate these terms anyway. For example, you might see something like “SN” in reference to “suprachiasmatic nuclei” in questions or answer options.
In general, you can think of jargon as a decoy : it’s there to distract you from tracking the logical progression of the passage and the point the author’s trying to make. Don’t fall into this trap!
GMAT reading comprehension passages often follow a typical structure: the main claim or point will be at the beginning, the next paragraph elaborates, and the next concludes. Even for ones that deviate slightly from this outline, you should still try to identify the main point as soon as possible —and then read each paragraph with an eye for how it builds or relates to the main point. After every paragraph, stop and take a moment to distill the “key idea” of the paragraph and fit it into your mental summary of what you’re reading. If the passage doesn’t have separate paragraphs, stop after every couple of sentences or right before a transition word.
Your mental summary should contain two parts: what and why .
One great trick is to simplify your summary as if you have to explain the passage to a little kid . This will help you distill complex passages down into their most straightforward, absorbable message.
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Sometimes a passage will contain multiple viewpoints—the viewpoint of the author and a viewpoint he/she disagrees with, multiple disparate viewpoints that the author is trying to mediate, etc. Take note of this: there will almost certainly be a question or two that tests your ability to distinguish, compare, or apply the different viewpoints presented . So these viewpoints should be a part of your mental summary: if they’re there, they’re there for a reason.
It may seem counterintuitive, but to some extent, you really can choose whether or not you care about what you’re reading.
For example, let’s say you’re learning about bird migration patterns. Think about how cool it is that birds migrate in the first place. How amazing is it that they’re just born with the knowledge to fly thousands of miles south in the winter, and then back when it gets warm again up north? That’s so cool! Of course scientists want to understand how this works—and you do, too!
Okay, so I’m at risk of getting a little hokey here. But the point stands: find a way to engage with the passage. Find a way that it relates to the kind of knowledge that you might seek out in your own time. You’re more likely to absorb the passage well if you’re interested in what you’re reading.
Most people think that the scratch board you’re given while taking the GMAT is just for the Quant section. This isn’t necessarily true: if there’s a single use case for it on the Verbal section, it’s reading comprehension. You don’t want to waste time writing down every detail, but on a passage-as-a-whole level, it can save time in the long run to jot down your mental summary as you read. You should then use your notes to help guide you on the questions.
Taking these kinds of notes is a good idea for most if not all students, but if you’re resistant to it, here are what I consider to be the three biggest use cases for taking notes:
Of course, no one strategy works for every single student. Ultimately, you should practice both taking and not taking notes for the passages, and see which way works best for you.
It bears repeating: GMAT reading comprehension questions require a thorough understanding of the passage . While you can (and should) simplify jargon in your mind as you read, you shouldn’t rush through the passage or just read the first and last sentence of every paragraph.
For one thing, you can’t see what you’re going to be asked beyond the very first question, which makes it hard to read predictively. You might unintentionally gloss over parts of the passage that will be important for a coming question. Moreover, as we just mentioned, the “next-level” questions (such as inference and out-of-context questions) will require a holistic, in-depth understanding of both the main idea and important details and how they interrelate. Overall, s kimming and speed-reading can leave you poorly prepared for whatever lies ahead .
Above all, the most important strategy for approaching the passages is to always read with the “main claim” or “main idea” in mind. Whether the author is making an argument or simply laying out information, there will always be a main idea that governs the passage’s content and organization.
Now that we’ve discussed how to approach reading the passages, let’s get into how to attack Reading Comprehension GMAT questions themselves.
This may seem obvious, but the GMAT loves to give you answer options that are factually correct given the information in the passage but which don’t actually answer the question being asked. For example, if the question is asking you to identify an “assumption” behind a particular statement, the answer isn’t going to be something explicitly laid out in the passage. Likewise, if you’re being asked to identify a “main idea,” it’s not going to be a piece of supporting evidence.
Don’t bring in outside knowledge, even if you’re familiar with the topic being discussed. The “right” answer should always be 100% supportable by the passage alone .
Getting rid of wrong answers is an integral part of the process of getting to the right answer. Even if you’re absolutely 100% sure of your chosen answer, you should always take the time to briefly check the other options and make sure you can discount them before moving on.
This is also a good strategy for when you’re stuck between answer options: focus on disproving each one, and then go with the answer option that is hardest to disprove . It’s almost always easier to weed out the wrong answers than it is to find the right one.
In your test prep, don’t just find the right answer and move on: practice asking yourself why the other answer options are incorrect. You’ll start to see patterns in the wrong answers that are given, including:
Finally, let’s see these GMAT reading comprehension strategies in action with some sample questions.
Check out out GMAT reading comprehension tips in action on the passage and questions below.
A meteor stream is composed of dust particles that have been ejected from a parent comet at a variety of velocities. These particles follow the same orbit as the parent comet, but due to their differing velocities they slowly gain on or fall behind the disintegrating comet until a shroud of dust surrounds the entire cometary orbit. Astronomers have hypothesized that a meteor stream should broaden with time as the dust particles’ individual orbits are perturbed by planetary gravitational fields. A recent computer-modeling experiment tested this hypothesis by tracking the influence of planetary gravitation over a projected 5,000-year period on the positions of a group of hypothetical dust particles. In the model, the particles were randomly distributed throughout a computer simulation of the orbit of an actual meteor stream, the Geminid. The researcher found, as expected, that the computer-model stream broadened with time. Conventional theories, however, predicted that the distribution of particles would be increasingly dense toward the center of a meteor stream. Surprisingly, the computer-model meteor stream gradually came to resemble a thick-walled, hollow pipe.
Whenever the Earth passes through a meteor stream, a meteor shower occurs. Moving at a little over 1,500,000 miles per day around its orbit, the Earth would take, on average, just over a day to cross the hollow, computer-model Geminid stream if the stream were 5,000 years old. Two brief periods of peak meteor activity during the shower would be observed, one as the Earth entered the thick-walled “pipe” and one as it exited. There is no reason why the Earth should always pass through the stream’s exact center, so the time interval between the two bursts of activity would vary from one year to the next.
Has the predicted twin-peaked activity been observed for the actual yearly Geminid meteor shower? The Geminid data between 1970 and 1979 shows just such a bifurcation, a secondary burst of meteor activity being clearly visible at an average of 19 hours (1,200,000 miles) after the first burst. The time intervals between the bursts suggest the actual Geminid stream is about 3,000 years old.
Before I get into the questions, I’ll take a moment to summarize the passage:
Note how I drilled the passage down to just the key ideas—this is more or less what your own notes and/or mental summary should look like for this passage.
Which of the following is an assumption underlying the last sentence of the passage?
(A) In each of the years between 1970 and 1979, the Earth took exactly 19 hours to cross the Geminid meteor stream.
(B) The comet associated with the Geminid meteor stream has totally disintegrated.
(C) The Geminid meteor stream should continue to exist for at least 5,000 years.
(D) The Geminid meteor stream has not broadened as rapidly as the conventional theories would have predicted.
(E) The computer-model Geminid meteor stream provides an accurate representation of the development of the actual Geminid stream.
First, let’s look at the question and nail down exactly what it’s asking of us . This is a logical structure question, which we know because it’s asking us to identify an assumption underlying a statement in the passage. It has kindly directed us specifically to the last sentence: “The time intervals between the bursts suggest the actual Geminid stream is about 3,000 years old.”
Clearly, you can’t answer this question by reading the last sentence by itself —or even the last paragraph. You need to understand the context (what the author’s argument is) in order to correctly identify the implicit assumption at work here.
It’s hard to predict what exactly they’re looking for in this question, as there are many potential assumptions underlying that last sentence. So it doesn’t make sense in this particular question to try to come up with your own answer first. Let’s go straight to the answer choices instead:
(A) is a classic “supported by the passage but doesn’t answer the question” option. It restates something said explicitly in the passage, and it has to do with data that was discovered—not an underlying “assumption.” Eliminate it.
(B) brings in information that isn’t supported by the passage: we are never told about the state of the meteor, and even if we were, it wouldn’t seem to have any bearing on using time intervals between meteor shower bursts to measure the age of the stream. Eliminate it.
(C) takes a number that was brought up a few times—5,000 years—and misapplies it. 5,000 years was the projected period for the computer modeling experiment, not a prediction of how long a real comet stream “should” exist. Eliminate it.
(D) tests your understanding of how multiple theories compare and contrast in this passage. The conventional theory is that meteor streams will broaden and become denser at the center. The new experimental finding is that meteor streams will broaden and become a hollow, thick-walled pipe. Both of them agree on the broadening, just not on the specific shape. Thus, (D) intentionally misinterprets the experimental finding. Eliminate it.
(E) gives us some food for thought. The passage does imply —but never explicitly states—that the data from the real Geminid meteor showers supports the computer model’s findings. The computer model had predicted that if the stream were 5,000 years old, it would take earth 24 hours to pass through. It actually took earth 19 hours to pass through, which—according to the computer model—makes the stream about 3,000 years old.
“According to the computer model” is never stated; it’s exactly the assumption underlying the application of an age to the actual meteor stream. As in, the author has taken the meteor shower data as “proof” of the computer model’s validity, and then turned around and used the computer model to date the real thing. So (E) is correct.
According to the passage, why do the dust particles in a meteor stream eventually surround a comet’s original orbit?
(A) They are ejected by the comet at differing velocities.
(B) Their orbits are uncontrolled by planetary gravitational fields.
(C) They become part of the meteor stream at different times.
(D) Their velocity slows over time.
(E) Their ejection velocity is slower than that of the comet.
First, as always, let’s think about what the question is asking. It’s a details question, so we’ll have to find something explicitly stated in the passage.
Now, take a look at the answer options: they deal with words like “velocity,” “time,” and “gravity.” Where in the passage did they talk about these things? It was in the first paragraph. Let’s refer back to it, since the explanation of the physics of meteor dust was a bit tricky.
The passage states: “A meteor stream is composed of dust particles that have been ejected from a parent comet at a variety of velocities. These particles follow the same orbit as the parent comet, but due to their differing velocities they slowly gain on or fall behind the disintegrating comet until a shroud of dust surrounds the entire cometary orbit.”
“ Due to their differing velocities ”—or, in simpler words, traveling at initial speeds that differ from each other—is the key here. Because they break off from the comet at different speeds, they gain ahead or fall behind it differently, ultimately landing in a variety of orbital positions and forming a kind of cloud. Choice (A) nails it, but we should still make sure we can eliminate the other options.
(B) directly opposes what’s stated in the passage: they are “perturbed” by planetary gravitational fields eventually.
(C) is a misinterpretation of the text—we’re dealing with velocity, not time.
(D) does get at the fact that the differing velocities don’t continue on forever, as the particles do “slowly gain or fall behind” the comet itself, but it doesn’t answer why the particles form a shroud around the comet, so it doesn’t answer the question being asked .
(E) brings in information never stated in the passage. All we know for certain is that the ejection velocities of the particles differ from each other , not the comet itself. Plus, some of the particles do “gain on” the comet, which implies that they’re traveling faster than the comet itself. So this answer option is at best speculative and at worst contrary.
We can safely stick with (A), the correct answer.
It can be inferred from the passage that which of the following would most probably be observed during the Earth’s passage through a meteor stream if the conventional theories mentioned in line 18 were correct?
(A) Meteor activity would gradually increase to a single, intense peak, and then gradually decline.
(B) Meteor activity would be steady throughout the period of the meteor shower.
(C) Meteor activity would rise to a peak at the beginning and at the end of the meteor shower.
(D) Random bursts of very high meteor activity would be interspersed with periods of very little activity.
(E) In years in which the Earth passed through only the outer areas of a meteor stream, meteor activity would be absent.
This is clearly an inference question. The author is asking us to hypothesize about what would happen if the conventional theories were true as opposed to the experimentally proven one. It’s not an out-of-context question, as it’s asking us about a situation within the passage, not outside of it.
So, given that the passage gives us the answer for the new theory, can we extrapolate from that what would happen for the conventional theory? First, we have to identify what the conventional theory really is. Here’s where that passage summary really comes in handy: We have distilled that the computer model (and ultimately supported) theory is the ‘hollow pipe’ theory, and that the conventional theory is the ‘centrally dense’ theory. If bursts happen when earth enters and exits the walls of the pipe, what would happen if earth passed through a centrally dense formation?
(A) makes perfect sense. The showers would gradually increase to a peak at the center, and then decrease again. All of the other answer options point to a different shape: (B) implies that the stream is uniform throughout; (C) reverses the pattern, matching more closely to the hollow “walls” theory than to the conventional theory; (D) implies a random shape; and (E) implies that there are no particles at all in the outer regions, rather than just a less-dense clustering of them.
TL; DR? You’ll encounter roughly 9 to 16 reading comprehension questions on the GMAT. While the questions vary, they all essentially test your ability to understand an argument or identify the important ideas and information from a given passage. You should:
No matter what, the most important thing is to nail down the best mix of the above strategies and tactics for you well before you take the real GMAT. Don’t deviate from your plan on test day: sticking to the tried-and-true approaches will ensure that you do your best.
Now that you’re an expert on reading comprehension GMAT questions, check out these similar posts on the best strategies for sentence correction questions and critical reasoning questions. (coming soon)
Wondering about the best way to study for the GMAT? Check out these tips for designing your GMAT study plan. (coming soon)
Other than reading comprehension, are you familiar with the format and question types on the rest of the GMAT? Our guide to the full GMAT exam pattern has samples of each and every question type.
When you’re ready to start taking practice tests, read through our guide to the best 28 GMAT practice tests to help you prepare for the exam . Good luck!
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Jess Hendel is a Brooklyn-based academic advisor, test prep tutor, and content writer for PrepScholar. A graduate of Amherst College, she has several years of experience writing content and designing curricula for the top e-learning organizations. She is passionate about leveraging new media and technology to help students around the world achieve their potential. View all posts by Jess Hendel
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Another one of the important GMAT writing tips is to take the time to set up your essay in a clear way. You don't need to write the most interesting or lengthy essay in the world to score well on the AWA section, but you do need to give your essay an easy-to-follow structure. Usually, that consists of an introduction, three to four well ...
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.
The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) provides clear instructions on how you should plan and write your essay. Kaplan students learn these instructions long before Test Day and do not waste precious testing time reading them while the clock ticks. Kaplan GMAT students learn the Kaplan Method for AWA and the Kaplan template for structuring the essay into paragraphs.
The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section, consisting of one 30-minute essay, measures the test taker's ability to formulate an appropriate and constructive critique of a specific conclusion based on a specific line of thinking. The AWA score is an average of the two independent ratings. Scores average from zero to six, in half-point ...
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The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment requires you to write an essay, using a basic word processor, that critiques a provided argument. It is the first section of the GMAT and is to be completed in 30 minutes. The AWA is scored by two readers in half-intervals on a scale of 0-6.
The Analytical Writing Assessment, or "essay" section, helps business schools analyze your writing skills. It is scored separately, and your AWA score is not used to generate your 200-800 point score. Time: 30 minutes. Format: one question. Tests: ability to analyze an argument and writing skills. Essays are scored by a human grader and a ...
Before you jump into writing, try to come up with 3-4 high-level reasons why this argument is logical or illogical. Below you will find a very solid guide for writing your essay. In fact, this could be used for nearly any Analysis of an Argument essay. First paragraph. Firmly state if you find the argument logical or illogical.
Conclusion - Reviewing Key Takeaways and Next Steps to Improve Your Analytical Writing Skills on GMAT. Improving your analytical writing skills on the GMAT requires practice, study, and a bit of strategy. To summarize our key takeaways: Understand the requirements of the AWA section; Use clear and concise language, and manage your time effectively
The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) provides clear instructions on how you should plan and write your essay. Kaplan students learn these instructions long before Test Day and do not waste precious testing time reading them while the clock ticks. Kaplan GMAT students learn the Kaplan Method for AWA and the Kaplan template for structuring the essay into paragraphs.
If there is more than a one-point discrepancy in the computer and grader score, then a third grader will come in to score your essay. The average score on the analytical writing assessment is 4.37 out of all test takers. Almost half of all GMAT test-takers score a 5 or above. A perfect score of 6 is in the 88th percentile.
Tips to Improve Your GMAT Analytical Writing Scores Practice Regularly. Consistent practice is vital for improving your GMAT writing assessment scores. Dedicate time to write practice essays, focusing on analysing various arguments. Use Official GMAT Prompts: Familiarise yourself with the types of arguments presented in the exam. Timed Practice ...
Follow the basic tips below: Maintain a good essay structure. GMAT AWA needs to be well-structured with right templates. This will catch the attention of the reader, which will help you score well. Write 4-5 body paragraphs containing proper Introduction, argument analysis and conclusion. Connecting paragraphs.
The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment Syllabus tests a range of skills that are valuable in business and management. Firstly, it assesses your ability to express ideas effectively and coherently. You should strive to present a well-structured essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
Get familiar with the formatting and practice prompts to improve your written communication. Use this resource for writing sample guidelines for the GMAT. We break down how the AWA of the GMAT is scored, describe essay prompts, give style guide/writing suggestions, and provide sample essays and practice prompts. 14. Study Past GMAT Writing Prompts
The essay portion of the GMAT, or the Analytical Writing Assessment, is unlike most of the essays you've written for college. You're given a single, one-paragraph prompt containing some kind of argument, and rather than picking a side and building your own case, you have to critique how that argument is made.. Luckily, we've done the hard work of analyzing GMAT essay questions for you.
Here are some expert tips to help you achieve a high-scoring performance on the GMAT essay. 1. Understand the prompt and task. The first step to writing a successful GMAT essay is to understand the prompt and the task. Take the time to read the prompt carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked of you.
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 ...
Tips for Crafting an A+ Essay. 1. Understand the Assignment: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the assignment guidelines and requirements. If you have any doubts, clarify them with your instructor. 2. Conduct Thorough Research: Gather relevant sources and information to support your arguments.
Depending on your level of (dis)comfort with this kind of academic writing, you may need a solid 3 to 6 months of regular reading in order to build these GMAT Reading Comprehension skills. (This is yet another reason why it's a good idea to get a head start on your GMAT studies. Don't leave it till the last minute!)
Communication skills—including concision, clarity, style, and fluency in English—will be essential to your success in business school. One way of discerning your level of writing ability is to require an original writing sample. In an MBA essay, you have to get your point across straightforwardly, elegantly, and concisely; being able to do ...
The Analytical Writing section is graded on a scale of 0-6 in half-point increments. According to the GMAC AWA score guide, 6 is considered "outstanding," 5 is "strong," 4 is "adequate," 3 is "limited," 2 is "seriously flawed," and a 1 is considered "fundamentally deficient.". Like the Integrated Reasoning score, the ...
Contrast or opposition: words like "yet," "however," and "nevertheless" and phrases like "on the other hand" or "in reality.". Conclusion: Phrases like "all in all" and "in essence," which indicate that the author is about to sum up or conclude their point. "Thus" can sometimes be used as a conclusion word as well.