Analytical Writing

[Dialogue]

Did anyone have their analytical writing section reviewed? Any luck?

I just received my official scores on the GRE. I did well (combined score in the mid-1500s). However, I scored a 4.5 on the analytical writing. I am a strong writer and confused as to how I received that score.

How important is the analytical writing section? Will schools care? Is it worth getting my score reviewed?

[irishfan11]

I got a 3.5 and have gotten into 3 schools so far. Which weighs more...A scholarly, political science research article or a GRE writing prompt asking the test taker to act as a tourism consultant for a local city? I think I know the answer.

[rc47]

I got a 4 and did fine. Just make sure you're personal statement and sample essay are well written.

Did anyone have their analytical writing section reviewed? Any luck?

I just received my official scores on the GRE. I did well (combined score in the mid-1500s). However, I scored a 4.5 on the analytical writing. I am a strong writer and confused as to how I received that score.

How important is the analytical writing section? Will schools care? Is it worth getting my score reviewed?

[unclejoecannon]

I think it also depends on which subfield you want to pursue. If for instance you want to do theory then a poor performance on the Analytical writing section would probably not bode well. However, I think the others are quite correct, a strong writing sample and statement can make up for a moderate score on the Analytical writing section.

[poli90]

I had 4.5 AWA and I'm in at my top choice. I would not bother getting it reviewed. I think a lot of profs don't know what it is. They also tend to think that they are a better judge of writing and analytical reasoning capability than some overworked, underpaid grad student who spent one minute looking at an essay on some random topic. So they will just look at your SoP and writing sample - much better to worry about getting those sharp than on your score.

Edit: Plus I'm a theorist.

Edited February 24, 2010 by Foucault

[Dialogue]

Thanks for all the input, I appreciate it.

I figured it wouldn't be a big deal, it's frustrating though. My GPA is really good and my LOR will be wicked, it's clear that I can write. It's just annoying to know that it is not an accurate representation of my ability.

Apparently it's graded by 1 prof and a computer. That's just silly.

[gsams]

It's actually not a big deal I don't think. I got a 6 the first time and a 4 the second. I don't think it's a very good test if there is THAT much variance. I was sick both times. First, with the swine and second with stomach flu. I hated the GRE. I was so glad to be done.