Some general tips for the AWA

Last updated: 25 Oct 2006

These tips apply to both the analysis of issue and analysis of argument essays in the analytical writing assessment (AWA).

Read the question carefully and make sure you understand exactly what you need to do.: If you misunderstand the question and then write on something off-topic, you will receive a 0 as your score.
Brainstorm for a couple of minutes before writing.: Take 2 to 4 minutes to write down on your noteboards all your ideas and arguments, and then organize them before you start typing.
Give your essay some structure.: Every essay should have some sort of organization, such as an introduction, the body of the essay, and a conclusion.
Watch your time.: Every couple of minutes look up and make sure you will not run out of time before you have finished the conclusion.
Avoid extreme opinions.: If you have extreme views on any particular issue, keep them to yourself. You do not want the B-School thinking you are some sort of nut.
Write about what you know.: Use your own experiences and knowledge to spice up a dull essay topic. As well, an essay with examples from the real world is much more enjoyable to read than one based solely on mere opinion and conjecture.

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