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Analytical Writing Assessment

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Identify the Strengths and Weaknesses of an Argument

The Analytical Writing Assessment measures your ability to think critically and to communicate your ideas. During the Analytical Writing Assessment, you will analyze the reasoning behind a given argument and write a critique of that argument. 

The Analytical Writing Assessment section consists of one 30-minute writing task—Analysis of an Argument. The arguments on the test include topics of general interest related to business, or a variety of other subjects. Specific knowledge of the essay topic is not necessary; only your capacity to write analytically is assessed.

Before you begin writing your response, take a few minutes to evaluate the argument and plan your response. You will then have 30 minutes to organize your ideas and develop them fully in your essay. Pacing is key. You want to leave time to re-read your response and make any revisions.

  • As you organize a thoughtful response, ask yourself the following questions:
    • What questionable assumptions underlie the thinking?
    • What counterexamples might be raised?
    • What additional evidence could help strengthen or refute the argument?
    • Does my response read like a discussion with full sentences and coherent organization?

     

  • Make your response read like a discussion. Your finished response should not be an outline. It should read like a discussion with full sentences, a coherent organizational scheme, logical transitions between points, and appropriately introduced and developed examples.
  • Use well-developed illustrations and examples. When you discuss alternative explanations or counterexamples, introduce illustrations and examples drawn from your observations, experiences, or reading. Do not simply list examples; develop them.

 

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