The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam that is required for admission to most business schools around the world. The GMAT exam is made up of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. In this article, we will focus on the GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam.
Exam Objectives:
The GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam is designed to test a candidate's ability to think critically and to communicate their ideas effectively in writing. The exam consists of one essay prompt that requires the candidate to analyze an argument and provide a written response. The objectives of the exam are:
- To assess the candidate's ability to analyze an argument critically.
- To evaluate the candidate's ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in writing.
- To measure the candidate's ability to organize ideas and construct a coherent argument.
- To assess the candidate's ability to use standard written English.
Exam Details:
The GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam is a computer-based exam that is delivered in the test center. The exam fee is $250. The passing score for the AWA section is not disclosed by GMAC, the organization that administers the GMAT exam. The time allotted for the AWA section is 30 minutes. The exam format consists of one essay prompt and the candidate is expected to type their response using a word processing program.
The AWA section of the GMAT exam is scored separately from the other sections of the exam and the score ranges from 0 to 6 in half-point increments. The AWA score is not factored into the total GMAT score, which ranges from 200 to 800. However, a low AWA score can raise concerns among business schools about the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a business setting.
Who should take the exam?
The GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam is required for all candidates who are taking the GMAT exam. It is designed to test a candidate's ability to analyze an argument critically and to communicate their ideas effectively in writing. The AWA score is used by business schools to evaluate a candidate's writing abilities, and a low AWA score can raise concerns about a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a business setting.
Prerequisites and qualifications:
There are no prerequisites for taking the GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam. However, candidates should have a basic understanding of standard written English and be able to write a coherent argument in response to a prompt. Candidates should also be familiar with the structure and format of the GMAT exam.
Related Books:
There are several books that can help candidates prepare for the GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam. Some of the most popular books include:
- "The Official Guide for GMAT Review" by GMAC
- "GMAT Analytical Writing: Solutions to the Real Argument Topics" by Vibrant Publishers
- "Ace the GMAT: Master the GMAT in 40 Days" by Brandon Royal
- "The
GMAT Analytical Writing: Assessment and Preparation Tips" by Vibrant Publishers
- "GMAT Writing Tips: How to Write a Successful GMAT Essay" by Vibrant Publishers
These books provide valuable information about the structure and format of the AWA section, as well as tips and strategies for writing a high-scoring essay. They also include sample essays and prompts that can help candidates practice their writing skills and improve their performance on the exam.
In conclusion, the GMAT SECTION 1: ANALYTICAL WRITING Assessment (AWA) exam is an important component of the GMAT exam that tests a candidate's ability to think critically and communicate effectively in writing. Candidates should be familiar with the exam objectives, format, and scoring system, as well as the prerequisites and qualifications for taking the exam. By using the right study materials and following effective preparation strategies, candidates can improve their performance on the AWA section and increase their chances of success in the business school application process.