How to get an ace score in GRE analytical writing?

[a fragrant plant]

I thought I wrote a good essay last time but the result turned out to be very disappointing! I only score 4.0 in analytical writing. How can I improve my score in the coming test? What elements do the graders look for?

[KieBelle]

I used Peterson's Cracking the GRE and it helped a lot. I took the GRE awhile ago so I'm a bit rusty, but from what I can remember the key to the essays is sticking to the essay format they're looking for (as boring and unoriginal as it may be) and coming up with at least 3 supporting points for your argument. And of course, your argument has to make sense. I remember leaving all traces of creative/figurative language out of it, and that seemed to work for me. My score was 5.5- so I didn't ace it, but I was happy enough with that score and chose not put myself through the torture of taking it again, haha.

[glasses]

I thought I wrote a good essay last time but the result turned out to be very disappointing! I only score 4.0 in analytical writing. How can I improve my score in the coming test? What elements do the graders look for?

Study the example essays that have gotten 6.0s in the past. Follow the pattern (i.e., 5- or 6-paragraph essay, clear transitions, introduction, and conclusion). Avoid anything at all that brought down the essays that got less than 6.0. Works like a charm.

[misterpat]

AWA is the hardest section to "fake" or "beat."

One piece of advice for the Issue essay: most of the 6 examples I've seen don't fully agree or disagree with the statement. Accepting or rejecting the statement with reservations adds nuance to your argument. Most of the statements are pretty extreme, so this is usually the best route.

Argument essay is totally formulaic, and thus easier to learn to write.

And be daring with your diction. Graders like to see impressive words.

[a fragrant plant]

Thank you for all of your replies. They are all very helpful!