Write an Outline for Analytical Writing

You're given a short amount of time (45 minutes for Issue , 30 for Argument) on the GRE to write a well developed essay with strong arguments and good evidence. To make sure everything runs smoothly, spend the first few minutes of the Analytical Writing section drawing up an outline.

Writing an Outline for your Analytical Writing Essay

I. Decide Your Stance

Your outline should be detailed, yet concise. First take a stance. What side are you taking or what is going to be the main theme of your essay?

II. Introduction

Write what you will include in your introduction. Your introduction should include the main idea of your essay as well as your main arguments.

III. Body

What main arguments are you going to use, and what is the evidence that you will use to support your arguments. If you find you cannot think of worthwhile arguments and/or evidence, don't hesitate to go back to step I and change your stance. Remember, you don't have to agree with what you write.

IV. Conclusion

How are you going to sum up your essay? You can try summarizing what you wrote in the body of your essay, present a new idea that that leaves the reader thinking, etc. Whatever you decide to conclude with, remember that your conclusion is the last thing the grader will read and should leave a good impression. No conclusion will drop your score significantly.

Now You're Ready to Write!

With your outline in front of you, just follow your outline while you're writing your essay. Intro, body, conclusion. That's all there is to it.