Issue Essay

Section: Analyze an Issue Essay Estimated study time: 45 minutes Content: The Analyze an Issue task is one of two essay tasks on the GRE Analytical Writing section. You are given a claim or recommendation and a specific instruction telling you how to respond — for example, "Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and explain your reasoning for the position you take." The GRE currently uses one Analytical Writing task (randomly selected as either Issue or Argument), and you have 30 minutes to complete it. The Issue essay is fundamentally different from the Argument essay. In the Issue task, you are expected to take a position and defend it using your own reasoning, examples, and judgment. There is no "correct" answer — ETS graders evaluate the quality of your reasoning, not whether your position is "right." A strong Issue essay presents a clear thesis, supports it with compelling and specific examples, and acknowledges counterarguments before showing why your position is stronger. Your introduction should state your position clearly in the first paragraph. Avoid wishy-washy openings like "There are many arguments on both sides of this issue." Instead, commit to a position: "Although proponents of X argue Y, the evidence suggests that Z is more accurate." Then briefly preview the structure of your argument. Each body paragraph should make one specific supporting point, developed with a concrete example. The best examples come from history, science, politics, literature, or your own professional experience — the more specific, the better. "Many companies have found that innovation matters" is weak. "Amazon's decision to invest in AWS despite initial losses from its…