How to Structure the Argument Essay on the GRE

The GREs Argument essay can be remarkably straightforward. The thesis is pre-written (some
version of the argument is flawed) and you know it should be about 5-6 paragraphs in which
you will criticize an argument, describe how it could be improved, and reiterate that is it overall
weak and unconvincing. The following template is only a suggestion, so feel free to adjust it
slightly into a version that best works for you! Remember to practice writing at least 2-3 full
essays within the time constraint before Test Day! You can also look at GREs official website to
access the Argument Essay topic pool to start applying this template to those prompts.
Paragraph 1 Intro (3-4 sentences)
Start by showing the reader that you understand the premise. Make sure you have identified
the Conclusion, Evidence, and underlying Assumptions of the argument in your pre-writing
phase. Do not use self-reference, or the words I agree or I disagree anywhere in your essay.
You will absolutely use phrases like the argument and the author but too much self-reference
can come across as unconfident and wavering. Here are the main points to hit:
Try this GRE reading comprehension question for more practice.
Introduce the timeliness of the arguments topic
Describe the argument in your own words
Thesis (final sentence): state unequivocally that the argument is flawed.
For example, your introduction could take a form like this:
The issue of _______ is as timely as ever. Recently, _________. Regarding this issue, the
author of the argument claims __________. He suggests that _________.Though the
underlying issue certainly has merit, because of a lack of evidence, weak assumptions, and
vague terminology the authors argument is unsubstantiated and deeply flawed.
You do not have to list your three examples in your thesis, but it can be a nice way of clarifying
for the reader what you will be discussing. Its up to you!
Paragraph 2 Lack of Evidence (4-6 sentences)
Almost every Argument can be criticized for a lack of evidence. If evidence is provided, how can
you explain that it is confusing, unrelated, or unsubstantiated?
Paragraph 3 Weak Assumption (4-6 sentences)
The author is always making at least one assumption. Choose ONE only and show the reader
you can see the gaps in logic between the weak evidence provided and the conclusion.
Paragraph 4 Vague Language (4-6 sentences)
Use a transition phrase again, then attack the specific terminology the author utilizes in the
argument. How many is many? Who exactly does he mean by most? Here you will be using
the authors own rhetorical construction against him.
Paragraph 5 How to Strengthen (2-4 sentences)
To summarize, introduce a few ways the author could improve his argument, other than the
three flaws you have already discussed. Reinforce the idea that there is SOME merit in the
issue underlying the authors argument, but not nearly enough as it to be convincing. You could
also choose to do this in a separate paragraph, and then use Paragraph 6 as your Conclusion.
For example:
Despite the arguments flaws and unconvincing terminology, the author could strengthen his
position were he to _________, and _________. If he _____________, then the arguments
reasoning would be significantly improved. However, without these changes, the argument is
implausible and the reasoning faulty.
Paragraph 6 (alternate) Conclusion (2-4 sentences)
Quickly restate your thesis, and emphasize that without the changes mentioned above, the
argument remains deeply flawed.















Act Purpose Description
I Set the stage Thesis statement: Three examples: 1. 2. 3.
II Tell the story Topic sentence for example 1: Explanation for example 1:
Topic sentence for example 2: Explanation for example 2:
Topic sentence for example 3: Explanation for example 3:
III Wrap it up Recap thesis: Expand your position:

Act Purpose Description
I Set the
stage
Thesis statement & topics conclusion: Argument weakened by three
unstated assumptions; argument claims that our health will continue to
decline as long as we persist in our technological advances Three reasons:
1. medical advances 2. diet vs. exercise 3. past/present fut ure
II Tell the
story
Topic sentence for reason 1: Assumes advances in medicine wont
counteract effect of sedentary lifestyle Analysis of reason 1: Consider
implications if this werent true: Medicine could advance as hightech
does. If so, might have more effect than exercise; could be good
Topic sentence for reason 2: Assumes diet not as important as exercise in
determining health Analysis of reason 2: Consider implications if this
werent true: Diet could improve as exercise declines. If diet is
determining factor, health wont decline
Topic sentence for reason 3: Assumes past and present trends indicative of
the future Analysis of reason 3: Consider implications if this werent true:
Even though tech. has improved and health has declined so far, this
doesnt necessarily mean anything about future; example of how tech has
improved???
III Wrap it
up
Recap thesis: Conc (health in jeopardy) relies on these three questionable
assumptions; argument doesnt really work Expand your position: Author
needs to address these issues to strengthen the argument and more
evidence