GMAT Integrated Reasoning (IR) and Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
The GMAT exam includes two sections designed to assess your ability to analyze information and construct a reasoned argument: the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section and the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA). Understanding their formats and question types is crucial for effective preparation.
Integrated Reasoning (IR) Section
The IR section is a 30-minute section with 12 questions. It assesses your ability to analyze data presented in various formats and solve problems using that data. Unlike the Quant and Verbal sections, IR questions often require you to interact with the data presented on screen.
IR Question Types
The IR section is scored separately from the Quant and Verbal sections, but it does contribute to your overall GMAT score. Strong performance here can highlight your analytical prowess.
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)
The AWA section is a 30-minute section where you will be presented with a prompt and asked to write an essay analyzing the reasoning behind a given argument. This section assesses your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas clearly and effectively in writing.
AWA Prompt and Essay Structure
The AWA essay is scored on a scale from 0 to 6, in half-point increments. The scoring is done by both an automated essay-scoring system and a human grader. Key elements for a high score include clear organization, logical reasoning, strong evidence-based critique, and precise language.
Text-based content
Library pages focus on text content
To assess your ability to analyze and critique the reasoning of a given argument, and to communicate your analysis effectively in writing.
Key Differences and Preparation Strategies
| Feature | Integrated Reasoning (IR) | Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) |
|---|---|---|
| Time Limit | 30 minutes | 30 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 12 | 1 essay |
| Skills Assessed | Data analysis, synthesis, problem-solving with multiple data formats | Critical thinking, logical reasoning, written communication, argument analysis |
| Output | Selecting answers, interacting with data | Writing a structured essay |
| Scoring | Contributes to overall GMAT score (1-8) | Scored separately (0-6) |
To prepare effectively for both sections, practice with official GMAT materials. For IR, focus on understanding how to quickly interpret different data visualizations and tables. For AWA, practice analyzing various arguments and outlining your critiques. Familiarity with common logical fallacies will be highly beneficial.
Learning Resources
Official overview from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) detailing the IR section, its question types, and preparation tips.
Official guide from GMAC explaining the AWA section, prompt structure, scoring, and strategies for writing a strong essay.
A PDF document from GMAC providing sample IR questions across all four question types to help you practice.
Examples of AWA prompts and scored essays, including explanations of why they received certain scores, to illustrate effective analysis and writing.
A blog post from Kaplan Test Prep that breaks down each of the four IR question types with explanations and examples.
A blog post from Manhattan Prep offering actionable advice and strategies for approaching and writing a high-scoring GMAT AWA essay.
A comprehensive guide to the GMAT IR section, covering question types, strategies, and common pitfalls.
An in-depth guide to the GMAT AWA, including essay structure, common argument flaws, and scoring criteria.
A video tutorial that visually explains the GMAT Integrated Reasoning section and its various question types.
A detailed walkthrough of a Multi-Source Reasoning question, demonstrating how to navigate and analyze information from multiple sources.