Following the instructions is critical to doing well on AWA essays. Free-form brilliance or stream-of-consciousness has not generally been rewarded by human GMAT essay-graders and it may really confuse the e-rater. Here are some basic strategies to help you write clear, concise, and effective (i.e. high-scoring) essays:

Top AWA Strategies

1. The e-rater cannot judge creativity, so a structured approach to writing essays is essential.

2. Before you begin to write, outline your essay. Good organization is vital to your score.

3. Vary the structure of your sentences. Both human and computer graders will appreciate it.

4. Use transitional phrases like first, therefore, since and for example, so that the computer can recognize the structured argument.

5. Avoid spelling and grammar errors. Although the e-rater doesn't grade spelling per se, if it can't identify the words you were trying to use or it thinks you used the wrong words, it could lower your score.

6. Use synonyms for important terms. The computer views them as indicators of a wide range of knowledge. For example, if your essay is about promoting a product, include synonyms for the word "promotion": advertising, marketing, publicity, etc. Also include pertinent examples of promotional campaigns.

7. Think about the best points you can make, but also think about the kinds of things that make a good GMAT essay. Essay topics often require you to spot unwarranted assumptions or recognize the basic structure of an argument. Practicing beforehand is particularly helpful.