As any MBA student knows, the GMAT is divided into three segments: Verbal, which tests communications skills; Quantitative, testing math and logic; and lastly, the Analytical Writing Assignment (AWA). While the last's title is pretty self-explanatory, mastering this part of the test is often the hardest to do.
The AWA is the shortest of the three components. It consists of two statements, usually handed out one at a time. One of the handouts discusses an issue. The other reviews an argument. A GMAT test taker then has 30 minutes to read, analyze and write a response per handout.
The responses to the AWA are graded on the following: Analyzing the issue and critic respectively; expound one's own opinions on both pieces in a clear, understandable way; how the responses are organized; and lastly the grammar and syntax used in the piece.
Because of the extremely short amount of time given each statement, experts advise applicants do the following: take 1-2 minutes to read the statement, the next 3-4 minutes organizing a general outline in one's head, the next 20+ minutes actually writing the piece and the last bit of time proofing and correcting grammar. Because of the extremely tight time frame, experts also say it's best to keep the entire response to 300-350 words, which should be divided into 5-7 paragraphs.
As most people are not used to such snap writing, they often take prep classes on how to handle the AWA. Because many work while taking these prep classes, they enroll for an online prep package. This actually has a secondary advantage as the better courses have access to a number of these arguments and issues and use them as many of their drills and exercises. The often also come with apps that will not only measure your response time, but also spell check and review your grammar and syntax.
From there, the class teacher or an aide reviews the response for any weaknesses the writer might have. It's not uncommon for the response to be back in one's email by the next business day...usually with suggestions on where to go and fix whatever problems one has. Then it's only a matter of learning one's lessons, taking another pair of statements and seeing how much you've learned. If not enough, then the cycle is repeated until you do.
Besides being able to take the prep course material at a time that's convenient to you, another reason why many are going online is the online chat rooms and/or class forums. Composed of fellow students and teachers, these can also come up with constructive advice based on experience with many of the questions.
It should be noted that the AWA is proportionately the smallest part of your GMAT score. At the same time it does have enough weight that it can be the difference between attending a top flight MBA program or attending one at all. Proper prep really will make that much of a difference when it comes to the GMAT.
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