GRE Analytical Writing (AWA): Scoring Rubric, Issue Essay Template & Prompts

Published: 2026-10-31 • Topic: Analytical Writing (AWA) & Essay Templates • Editorial: MockTestBank Team

Comprehensive guide to the 30-minute Analyze an Issue task on the shorter GRE. Scoring criteria from 0.0 to 6.0, paragraph-by-paragraph essay templates, and official prompts.

Official Reference Documentation

ETS Official Analytical Writing Overview & Issue Task Pool

Visit ets.org Resource

1 The 30-Minute Analyze an Issue Task Format

Key Coverage in this Section:

Exam expectations on the shorter GRE
Human scoring combined with e-rater automated scoring
Scoring scale breakdown (0.0 to 6.0 in half-point increments)

Section Draft Area: The 30-Minute Analyze an Issue Task Format

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2 High-Scoring 5-Paragraph Essay Template

Key Coverage in this Section:

Introduction with thesis and scope statement
Body paragraphs with concrete real-world evidence
Counter-argument and rebuttal concession paragraph
Crisp synthesis conclusion

Section Draft Area: High-Scoring 5-Paragraph Essay Template

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3 Accessing the Official ETS Pool of Issue Topics

Key Coverage in this Section:

Reviewing the public issue topic bank
Brainstorming pro/con examples across society, education, technology, and arts

Section Draft Area: Accessing the Official ETS Pool of Issue Topics

This section is scaffolded and ready for your content.

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