GRE Analytical Writing Practice Test

Preparing for the GRE exam is a tough nut to crack. However, we've got you covered. In this article, you can find the GRE Analytical Writing Section practice questions, some tips and tricks to analyse the questions, and more. You can also look for GRE analytical writing section mock test and GRE analytical section practice tests, so, you can have a clear idea of what type of questions you are going to get in the GRE test 2025.

GRE or Graduate Record Examination is one of the most popular standardized tests to study abroad. The GRE consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections. It is important that you start preparing for the exam before completing the GRE registration process. Remember, practicing regularly helps a candidate develop and improve writing skills which is important for the GRE AWA section. Here we will discuss about GRE analytical writing section and tips to score well in it. Also, we have mentioned GRE Analytical Writing sample questions for regular practice before appearing in the exam.

About GRE Analytical Writing Section

The GRE Analytical Writing section aims to measure the test taker's ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support ideas with relevant reasons and examples, examine claims and accompanying evidence, sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion and control the elements of standard written English.

READ: GRE Essay Topics with Answers 

In the Analytical Writing section, there will be two separately timed essays. For each essay, you will be given 30 minutes to address a specified topic. For topics around 'Analyze an Issue,' candidates would be required to write an essay in which they would respond to a brief statement over an issue of general interest. For topics around 'Analyze an Argument,' candidates would be required to compose an essay in which they would be required to analyze a paragraph-length argument. 

For the benefit of our readers, we have provided downloadable mock GRE Analytical Writing questions for candidates wanting to practice before the GRE Exam. Through the GRE Analytical Sample questions, candidates can self-evaluate their preparedness for the GRE Analytical Writing section of the GRE exam.

GRE Writing Sample Questions 

Essay Topic – 1

The following appeared as a letter to the editor from the owner of a skate shop in Central Plaza.

"Two years ago the city council voted to prohibit skateboarding in Central Plaza. They claimed that skateboard users were responsible for litter and vandalism that were keeping other visitors from coming to the plaza. In the past two years, however, there has been only a small increase in the number of visitors to Central Plaza, and litter and vandalism are still problematic. Skateboarding is permitted in Monroe Park, however, and there is no problem with litter or vandalism there. In order to restore Central Plaza to its former glory, then, we recommend that the city lift its prohibition on skateboarding in the plaza."

Write a response in which you discuss what questions would need to be answered in order to decide whether the recommendation and the argument on which it is based are reasonable. Be sure to explain how the answers to these questions would help to evaluate the recommendation. 

Answer: GRE Sample Essay 11

Essay Topic – 2

The following appeared in a health newsletter.

"Nosinia is an herb that many users report to be as effective as prescription medications at fighting allergy symptoms. Researchers recently compared Nosinia to a placebo in 95 men and women with seasonal allergies to ragweed pollen. Participants in the study reported that neither Nosinia nor the placebo offered significant relief. However, for the most severe allergy symptoms, the researchers reported that Nosinia was more effective than the placebo in providing relief. Furthermore, at the end of the study, participants given Nosinia were more likely than participants given a placebo to report feeling healthier. We, therefore, recommend using Nosinia to help with your severe allergy symptoms.”

Write a response in which you discuss what questions would need to be answered in order to decide whether the recommendation and the argument on which it is based are reasonable. Be sure to explain how the answers to these questions would help to evaluate the recommendation.

Answer: GRE Sample Essay 15

Answer Key

(Candidates can download the GRE Analytical Sample guide for similar topics and also for sample responses for the topics provided above.)