Scoring of GRE Analytical Writing Section Essays

The GRE Analytical Writing section consists of two essays: the Issue task and the Argument task. Each essay is evaluated and scored by trained human raters. The essays are scored on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments, with 6 being the highest score.

Issue Task Evaluation and Scoring
1. Understanding the task: The essay is evaluated based on the writer's ability to understand and analyze the given issue, considering its complexities and nuances.
2. Development of ideas: The essay is scored based on the clarity, coherence, and depth of the writer's ideas. The writer should provide relevant examples, evidence, and reasoning to support their perspective.
3. Organization and structure: The essay should have a clear and logical structure with a well-defined introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The writer should effectively transition between ideas and paragraphs.
4. Language and writing skills: The essay is evaluated based on the writer's command of standard written English, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall fluency.

Argument Task Evaluation and Scoring
1. Understanding the argument: The essay is assessed based on the writer's ability to identify and analyze the key elements of the given argument, including assumptions, logical flaws, and evidence.
2. Evaluation of evidence and reasoning: The writer should critically evaluate the evidence and reasoning provided in the argument. They should identify weaknesses, inconsistencies, or alternative interpretations.
3. Organization and structure: Similar to the Issue task, the essay should have a clear and well-organized structure, with a strong introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Coherence and logical progression of ideas are important.
4. Language and writing skills: The essay is scored based on the writer's command of standard written English, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall clarity of expression.

Scoring Process
The scoring process involves two independent raters who evaluate each essay. If their scores differ by more than one point, a third rater is involved to determine the final score. The final score is an average of the two or three independent ratings.

It is important to note that the essays are not scored based on the specific stance or viewpoint expressed by the writer. Instead, they are evaluated based on the quality of the analysis, development of ideas, coherence, organization, and language skills demonstrated in the essay.

Conclusion
The essays in the GRE Analytical Writing section are evaluated and scored based on various criteria, including understanding of the given task, development of ideas, organization and structure, and language and writing skills. The final score is determined by trained human raters, ensuring a fair and comprehensive evaluation of the essays.