GRE Writing Tips

Dr.
Beverly Hearns
GRE Analytical Writing Tips
All parts of the GRE can be practiced by using the Tennessee Electronic library. Using the internet, access
this library, then choose Learning Express, choose the tab, College Students, click on Graduate Entrance
exams, and finally select GRE.
We strongly encourage you to practice all of the tests. The tests on this site are free; they are
interactive, they are timed; and they will be scored for you so that you can receive immediate feedback
on whether or not you would be able to pass the test. You are encouraged to explore all the options on
this site.
However, MAKE SURE to practice the writing tests. These tests are not scored on the site because hand
scoring is required on the actual GRE writing test, but after you answer the sample questions, you will
compare your answer to a top scoring 6.0 essay. By using this comparison, you can determine what
parts of the essay need further development and more examples in order to make the required grade.
Here are a few hints for scoring high on the writing portion of the GRE exam.
Take only 3 to 5 minutes to gather your thoughts.

Make a few notes to use as a guide.
Write an introductory paragraph which gives an overview of your 3 points.
Write one paragraph about each of three points.
Explain each point as well as possible and give examples.
In the concluding paragraph, try if you can make an overarching statement or use a metaphor
that brings it all together:
o "Fiction and non-fiction are two parts of a well-balanced reading diet. Both are
necessary for growth."
When you are presented an argument to analyze, find three points where the argument is
lacking, has no evidence, or makes an assumption.
Hit one gap in the evidence in each of 3 paragraphs.
Explain what further information or data is needed to substantiate each inadequate argument.
Be sure to tell how the argument would be strengthened with that new data.
Again, bring it all together in the last paragraph.
Watch the timer and take 3 minutes at the end to make corrections in grammar and
punctuation.
You will not have time to make any big changes so stick to the point and go paragraph by
paragraph
If you practice the two versions of the writing test, you will have a much better chance of passing the
GRE writing with a 4 or higher (3.5 is required for admission to UT Martins education graduate
program). Be sure to use all GRE resources on the Tennessee Electronic Library site. We emphasize that
practicing the writing portion of the test using this site is essential for almost all applicants in order to
score a 3.5 or higher.
GRE Writing Outline

The following outline is derived from a propositional analysis graphic organizer. This outline can help
examinees to organize their written responses to questions which require thoughtful analysis and
critical thinking.
After carefully reading the proposed problem/solution, decide whether the argument is valid or not
valid. Then write a response of 10-15 sentences examining the following:
1. Stated Facts
Are they real facts or just glowing generalities? Remember source of the information may
definitely be questioned.
2. Statistical Data
Were any survey questions or polls supplied in support of the proposition actually directly
related to the subsequent conclusions? Question the link or connection if it is not clear and
strong. Is data from the sample group generalizable? Was the sample taken from a group
similar to the group for whom the conclusion is made? Was the sample random? Was the whole
group sampled or a small portion? Which important groups were excluded? In light of the
sampling techniques and results, is the conclusion valid?
3. Expert Authority
Were the experts who were quoted actual experts, or simply individuals voicing their own
opinions? Do you yourself know any prior information from expert sources such as books,
websites, organizations, or other authorities which would confirm or refute the conclusion? Do
you know any quotes with the attributable source either in support or in opposition to the
proposition?
4. Examples
Were the given examples directly linked or only slightly related to the conclusion? Are there
examples from your own life and experience, from courses you have taken, from the news, or
from other countries and/or situations that confirm or invalidate the conclusion?
5. Logic and Reasoning
Remember to examine any assumptions, stated or unstated. What is not said; what can be
inferred?
6. Conclusion
Recap the reasons why you believe the conclusion is valid, invalid. Briefly summarize the
evidence. Finally, restate your agreement or disagreement with the conclusion.
Follow as many of these lines of analysis and criticism as you are able and keep track of time. When 3-5
minutes are left, write the conclusion and look over your work for small edits in spelling, grammar,
punctuation, etc. Hopefully no organizational revisions will be necessary if the outline is followed.

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Dr.

Take only 3 to 5 minutes to gather your thoughts.

GRE Writing Outline

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