Quote:
Originally posted by Nosheen
Thanks for the reply Ali. That really does help!!  
Just another question...about the essays that you have to write. The GRE prep books suggest you create a template to help you write the essays. I don't really fancy doing that. What do you think? How do you write?
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Dear Nosheen,
Sorry for the late reply. I was away on a short vacation. Yes it is helpful if you have a rough template in mind, coz it allows your essay to have an organized structure, and that Nosheen can land you good marks.
What I suggest is there should be at least four paragraphs, preferably five if you can manage. The first is the intro, and the last in the conclusion. In between you have three paragraphs, in each of each you introduce one of arguments.
An argument has certain essential elements. First of all start with laying the claim of the argument. Claim is the statement of the argument. Then present the grounds. These are the examples, data, insights etc that you present in favor of your argument. Finally you have the warrant. This means how you link your grounds to your claim and both of these to the overall statement of the issue prompt. I hope I am not making this confusing. But you need to understand these, coz I have read that ETS looks for these things in the essay.
Finally you can include one paragraph about reservations. This means looking at the other side of the argument. By accepting that the other position exists, you appear as an even handed writer, one who is willing to listen to other viewpoints besides your own. This is a good thing, and makes you look like a mature writer, rather than a partisan one.
Hope that helps,
Keep writing,
Regards,
Ali