95 Express

Cost: $106 million
Completion Date: 2014

The 95 Express in Miami, Florida, is a publicly financed toll road designed around congestion pricing. Vehicles that choose to use the 95 Express lanes will be charged a variable toll based on highway congestion at the time of use. The rate fluctuates from $0.25 up to $7 and encourages the use of public transit, ride sharing, and hybrid vehicles. Buses, carpools, and hybrid vehicles can register for toll-exempt use of the express lanes. Additionally, motorcycles and emergency vehicles can use the express lanes without paying a toll.

Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program

Cost: $3.144 billion
Completion Date: 2016

Seattle is working to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct, a highway connecting State Route 99 with busy downtown streets. The Viaduct was in service for fifty years but was damaged by an earthquake in 2001. A project that spent more than a decade in planning, the Viaduct Replacement Program is being completed across multiple phases. The project is well underway and, this summer, the world’s largest-diameter tunneling machine will begin boring its way through the earth beneath downtown Seattle.

Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program (CREATE)

Cost: $3.05 billion
Completion Date: Unknown

The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program (CREATE) is a massive undertaking that involves all six of the major railroad operators that pass through Chicago. In addition to some money from these railroads, this project is being paid for by federal, state, and local funds. The project began in 2003 with several goals: improve passenger rail service, reduce freight rail congestion to boost regional and national economic competitiveness, reduce motorist delay due to rail conflict at grade crossings, enhance public safety, promote economic development, create and retain jobs, improve air quality, and reduce noise from idling or slow-moving trains. While some of the smaller projects that make up the CREATE plan have been completed, some are currently underway, and many more lack funding.

Dallas Area Rapid Transit Project Orange Line Extension (I-3)

Cost: $397 million
Completion Date: December 15, 2014

Connecting downtown Dallas to the DFW airport is the goal of the current DART Orange Line extension. This project is currently in its third phase with five stations and nine miles of track already added to the line. One of the stations already completed connects the master-planned community of Las Colinas. This project adds to three years of expansion that will almost double DART coverage.

Delaware U.S. Route 301

Cost: $741 million
Completion Date: Unknown

On the surface, the Delaware U.S. Route 301 project doesn’t look very innovative. It’s a textbook example of an existing highway in need of repairs and expansion. The pitch on the project website says, “this project is founded in an existing roadway system that lacks capacity for current and future traffic volumes and that has had sections appear almost yearly on DelDOT’s list of High Accident locations.” However, the innovative part of this project is in the funding, which is designed to reduce the need for current federal funds. Rather, the project is funded primarily through bonds that are backed by expected toll revenues and future federal aid.

Downtown Tunnel / Midtown Tunnel / MLK Extension

Cost: $2.089 billion
Completion Date: 2017

In the Hampton Roads area of Portsmouth and Norfolk, Virginia, work is about to begin on a linked transportation network. The planning is in place and, next year,tolls will begin to be collected. This will pay for improvements to the existing road and the Elizabeth River tunnel. Additionally, these funds will go toward the construction of a second tunnel, interchange modifications, and increased bus and ferry services. The goal is to make traffic flow more efficient while improving public transit options.

Eagle Project

Cost: $2.05 billion
Completion Date: 2016

The Eagle Project is a massive expansion of bus, commuter rail, and light rail services throughout the Denver metropolitan area. This project includes significant changes to the Denver Union Station, 21,000 new parking spaces, 18 miles of bus service, and more than 120 miles of rail service. Design, construction, funding, and long-term operations are all part of the public-private partnership that is at the core of this project.

I-4 / Selmon Expressway Connector

Cost: $402.5 million
Completion Date: 2013

This elevated toll road simply connects I-4 with the Selmon Expressway in Florida. There are several interesting innovations surrounding this project, including the planning of the expressway, which will need to cross several streets, one state highway, and a freight railroad. The goal of the project is to alleviate commercial traffic from local roads using dedicated truck lanes with direct access to the Port of Tampa. Lastly, this project is being designed around an electronic toll collection system that will cover all thirteen lanes.




Miami Intermodal Center

Cost: $2.02 billion
Completion Date: 2014

The Miami Intermodal Center connects Miami International Airport (MIA) with Miami Central Station and the Rental Car Center. Travelers will also have free access to the MIA Mover, which will circulate people between these three locations. This will reduce shuttle bus services and traffic congestion around the airport. Additionally, efficient connections from the airport to bus and rail transportation options will allow more travelers to use public transportation.

South East High Speed Rail (SEHSR) Corridor

Cost: Unknown
Completion Date: 2018–2022

The South East High Speed Rail (SEHSR) Corridor is a massive project that has been under consideration since 1992. Some traction has begun to develop and planning meetings have been held in Virginia and North Carolina. While some funding has come in for small portions of this larger project, SEHSR has a long way to go. If completed, this rail system will have a major impact on transportation throughout the Southeast. In addition to rail service in North Carolina and Virginia, this project could connect Washington, D.C., with high-speed rail projects planned for South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.

The ZIP code is 50 years old, which means today is the day to take some time to learn about those five little digits we all take for granted. We’ll start with the basics: learning what this acronym means. ZIP stands for Zoning Improvement Plan, and it was put into place in July of 1963 as a way to manage the extreme increase in the amount of mail being sent around the country. If it feels like ZIP codes have not been around for quite 50 years, it’s because the Post Office Department only started requiring people to use them in 1967.

According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), the largest American cities were given zoning codes in 1943 because so many postal employees joined the military at the time. This left the steadily growing mail industry shorthanded when it came to experienced staff, so a system was created to make the mail a little faster to sort. The primitive zoning codes only had one or two numbers to differentiate cities, but by 1962, the Post Office Department had come up with a more advanced system. Each address in the country was given a code with five digits, and by July 1, 1963, people were encouraged to use their ZIP code to ensure delivery of their mail.

Starting in the 1960s, the importance of the mail system was growing, mainly due to the advent of the computer. So although mail and technology might not seem to go hand in hand, the computer actually had a direct role in the growth of this industry because it allowed businesses to send bills, advertisements, and catalogs in bulk through the mail. It also let individuals send payments, receive checks, and sign up for magazine subscriptions. There was a clear need to simplify the mail sorting process, and ZIP codes and computers made that possible.

Not surprisingly, there is nothing random about your ZIP code, since each digit has an important meaning. The first one indicates which region of the U.S. you live in, with zero being the assigned number for the Northeast and nine representing the West Coast. The next two digits of your ZIP code provide a more detailed description of where you live, since they indicate the region or major city you reside in within your state. The last two digits of the ZIP code refer to the specific Post Offices that serve your area.

These days, it is common to not only know the ZIP code of your current home, but also remember those associated with past residences. After all, this number says a lot about where you live. The Census Bureau even breaks down demographic information by ZIP code, and some areas are easily recognized simply by this number. Beverly Hills and its 90210 zoning code is just one example.

No matter what your ZIP code is, it deserves to be celebrated on its 50th birthday.

The Marketplace Fairness Act—There’s More “On the Line” Than Just Tax Revenue

Since e-commerce first blossomed, hundreds, possibly thousands, of brick-and-mortar stores have disappeared. Some were mom-and-pop operations, but the big names have not been exempt. For example, who would have foreseen the disappearance of Borders Books? While the reasons for this sea change in the retail world are varied, one of the major factors is a simple matter of sales taxes, or lack thereof. Merchants who sell online aren’t required to collect sales taxes, and online buyers, whether required to or not, seldom pay them. So, if the Marketplace Fairness Act (MFA) is passed, who wins and who loses?

The Biggest Winners from the MFA—the States

It’s estimated that the United States lost around $11.4 billion in sales tax dollars last year (and more than twice that amount according to the National Conference of State Legislatures). With federal subsidies being cut back, it’s no wonder that states are chomping at the bit for MFA passage.

Another big winner could be software companies that develop applications to handle compliance. With 9,600 taxing bodies in the United States, the hand-held calculator is sure to be insufficient. Just as tax preparation software serves the modern household, online sales tax compliance software could provide a gold mine for those savvy enough to develop and market it. And, given that the law as currently proposed requires states to supply the software, the demand is assured.

The Biggest Losers—Consumers

Whether the correct number is the commonly quoted $11 billion or the $23 billion advanced by the NCSL it’s fair to say that the consumer has been saving money the states have been losing. Ostensibly then, MFA is a big negative for consumers. However, advocates of the Act would argue that states support schools, libraries, first responders, infrastructure, and more. What good is it to save a few dollars on a trail bike if there are no trails? So, on the face of it, while the MFA is anathema to consumers, a case can be made that it will help provide important government services.

Smaller retailers could also be counted among the losers, since they might not have the resources to easily comply. To this end, eBay, an overall supporter of the Act, feels that the trigger threshold of $1 million in revenue (which exempts retailers below that amount from the law) is far too low and should be raised to $10 million. However, the legislators have not bent on this, and online merchants at the lower end of the spectrum are some of its staunchest opponents.

Who Supports the Marketplace Fairness Act?

Not surprisingly, as the biggest winners, state governments are salivating over the prospect that the MFA will become law, and it certainly seems possible that it will. When positioned as an amendment to a budget proposal in late March, the bill garnered 75 votes in the Senate, 15 more than needed to defeat a filibuster. When the actual vote came on May 6, 2013, support dwindled to 69 senators, but that was still far more than enough for passage. However, the bill is expected to face tougher opposition in the House.

Other big supporters are retailers like Sears, Best Buy, and any merchant with a large brick-and-mortar footprint. In their view, it’s an important step in the process toward leveling the playing field between them and online merchants.

And traditional retailers aren’t the only ones who support the bill. One of its biggest boosters is Amazon.com, the online sales behemoth. With its rapid proliferation of warehouse and distribution sites that are soon to be virtually everywhere, Amazon can also stake out its turf on the “leveling the playing field” argument.

But Will the Bill Have the Desired Result?

There are many who argue that should the MFA pass, downtowns and shopping malls will thrive, jobs will be created, and schools, roads, and social programs will have plenty of financing. But the reality may be a bit different. Some have suggested that the bill will stifle innovation and kill small entrepreneurs, as their larger competitors spread the cost of compliance over a much larger sales base. They also point out that, even if the most optimistic projections of $23 billion in gained revenue to the states is realized, it represents only 3 percent of the total state and local taxes collected in 2012, hardly enough to make a dent in state budgets.

While almost no one argues that the current system is fair (hence the Act’s name), no one wants to preside over the demise of traditional commerce. If passed, the ultimate impact of the Act won’t be known for some time, but it does look as if the MFA’s time may have come.

Open Government is defined by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) as “the transparency of government actions, the accessibility of government services and information, and the responsiveness of government to new ideas, demands and needs.”

E-Government is defined by the World Bank as “the use by government agencies of information technologies that have the ability to transform relations with citizens, businesses, and other arms of government. These technologies can serve a variety of different ends: better delivery of government services to citizens, improved interactions with business and industry, citizen empowerment through access to information, or more efficient government management. The resulting benefits can be less corruption, increased transparency, greater convenience, revenue growth, and/or cost reductions.”

Government 2.0 is defined by Gartner Research as “the use of Web 2.0 technologies, both internally and externally, to increase collaboration and transparency and potentially transform the way government agencies relate to citizens and operate.”

Open Government and E-Government paved the way for Government 2.0, a collaborative technology whose mission is to improve government transparency and efficiency. How? Gov 2.0 has been called the next generation of government because it not only utilizes new technologies such as social media, cloud computing, and other apps, it is a means to increase citizen participation.

While some question the logistics of funding, implementing, managing, and securing Open Government, E-Government, and Government 2.0 projects, advocates—from single-source bloggers to large well-funded groups—don’t show any signs of slowing down. Plans for summits, conferences, new applications, and publications suggest that Open Government, along with all its emerging technology, is here for the long haul.

We have compiled a list of organizations, blogs, guides, and tools to help citizens and public service leaders better understand the Open Government, E-Government, and Government 2.0 movement.

We welcome any additions to the list that we may have missed in the comments below.

1. Winston Churchill, Harrow School, 1941

Winston Churchill was by far one of the most prominent public service leaders of all time. As an officer of the British Army and prime minister of the United Kingdom, Churchill was not only known for his leadership abilities, but also for his public speaking skills. His Harrow School commencement speech urged students to stay true to their convictions in spite of all of life’s challenges. His words, “never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense,” are as timeless as they are unforgettable.

2. Barack Obama, Morehouse College, 2013

President Barack Obama recently delivered a commencement speech at Morehouse College. He reminded graduates that a fulfilling career is not only about financial success, but also taking time to help those in need. Obama stated, “So, yes, go get that law degree. But if you do, ask yourself if the only option is to defend the rich and the powerful, or if you can also find some time to defend the powerless.”

3. John F. Kennedy, American University, 1963

In 1963, President John F. Kennedy delivered one of the most unforgettable speeches in history at American University. He encouraged graduates to pursue careers in public service by saying, “We must show it in the dedication of our own lives—as many of you who are graduating today will have a unique opportunity to do, by serving without pay in the Peace Corps abroad or in the proposed National Service Corps here at home.”

4. Condoleeza Rice, Southern Methodist University, 2012

Condoleeza Rice’s commencement speech at Southern Methodist University emphasized the importance of education and the responsibilities that come with the privilege of being educated – passion, rejection of false pride, commitment to reason and optimism. In her speech she said, “Here in America, our own ideals of freedom and equality have been borne through generations by optimists. There was a day in my own lifetime when the
hope of liberty and justice for all seemed impossible. But because individuals kept faith with the ideals of equality, we see a different America.”

5. Colin Powell, Wake Forest University, 2004

Colin Powell is known for his many years of service in the both military and the government. His speech at Wake Forest University covered the values and traits necessary to succeed in public service and beyond. He said, “Character is perhaps the most important trait we seek and expect in our leaders, and those words still ring true.”

Future public service leaders have valuable wisdom to gain from every one of these speeches. Graduation is just the beginning of the journey and the finish line is holding true to one’s beliefs through it all. As we reflect on these speeches, we would like to wish the Carolina MPA Class of 2013 the best of luck on their journey to becoming the next generation of public service leaders.

When disaster strikes, especially major disasters like the devastating tornado in Moore, Oklahoma, it affects the entire country. The media is flooded with images of the damage and stories of survival and heroism. In cities and towns across the country, people want to reach out and help in any way they can. It is important to learn the best ways you can help the disaster relief effort to ensure your assistance reaches its intended destination.

Which Nonprofit Organizations Are Helping?

Many of the nation’s best-known nonprofit organizations are supporting disaster relief efforts in order to assist the community of Moore, Oklahoma. They are there to provide food, shelter, and information on financial assistance to get the people of Moore back on their feet. Here are a few that are helping in the region:

The Red Cross is one of the primary organizations that help with all natural disasters. They organize the distribution of necessary supplies, oversee blood donation needs, and even reunite family members who have been separated during the crises.

The Salvation Army often steps in to help after a natural disaster. They have deployed mobile kitchens to the region to help feed those who have been displaced by the storm. These kitchens can serve as many as 2,500 people every day.

Feeding America, which operates more than 200 food banks across the country, is helping tornado victims by supplying food to those who have been affected. The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, Feed the Children, Operation Blessing International, and Save the Children, are also working to bring food to victims who have lost their homes or are without power.

Now that search and rescue efforts are completed and the estimated total damage of this disaster has become more apparent, other organizations are helping with the massive cleanup. The OK Strong Disaster Relief Fund is providing medical, emotional, and educational support for those impacted by the tornado. Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief is helping with tree removal and laundry services. Operation USA is providing assistance with rebuilding materials, shelter, and cleaning supplies. Direct Relief, based in California, is providing personal hygiene products and medical care to victims.

How Can You Help?

One of the first questions people ask when they hear about a tragedy like this is, “How can I help?” This is an important question because there will be many well-meaning people who will do the wrong thing with only the best of intentions. Scam artists may start contacting people to take up donations that will supposedly reach those affected by the disaster, and many will give money thinking they are helping victims. Other people will fail to heed the advice of what not to send.

The most important thing the average citizen can do is give money to reputable organizations that have a history of providing disaster relief, like the ones listed above. Blood donations are another important way to help victims, especially if you have an in-demand blood type.

Though it may be tempting to raid your closets or pantry to help, you should avoid sending:

• Clothing
• Toys
• Household items
• Food
• Personal care items
• Diapers

The reason these donations are typically frowned upon is simple. The nonprofit organizations that provide assistance are able to purchase more products for less money. Therefore, it is best to send the money directly instead of making the purchase yourself. In addition, the used clothing and toys require additional manpower to evaluate and distribute. In many cases, these donations are discarded.

If you are unsure where to send donations, choose one of the organizations mentioned above. To ensure your donation will be used properly, visit www.charitynavigator.org. On this site, you can check what percentage of donations actually reaches those in need for particular charities.

What Can Organizations Learn from This?

Organizations that wish to help can benefit from watching the coordination of the relief efforts. In these disasters, the Red Cross typically stands at the helm. They coordinate all the organizations to ensure those who need the most assistance receive it. The proper coordination of these efforts is necessary for the success of the entire operation. The best way organizations can help is to begin collections and donate funds to a reputable charity.

The Moore, Oklahoma, tornado is still fresh in everyone’s minds. Since the second wave of storms hit the state last Friday, the disaster relief efforts have been going strong to provide those affected with the assistance they need to begin the process of moving forward. With the help of everyday citizens and various nonprofit organizations, Moore—and other affected cities—can work toward healing and rebuilding.

While historic preservation is about preserving our cultural heritage, it can also help create jobs and revitalize communities. The National Trust for Historical Preservation recognizes the efforts of private citizens and local governments that revitalize their commercial districts through preservation with the Great American Main Street Awards. Below are some past winners of this prestigious award and the stories of their success.

H Street, Washington, D.C.

One of the few remaining intact “corridors” from the 1968 Washington, D.C., riots, H Street represents an important part of our country’s cultural history. But in 2002, with 30 percent of its storefronts vacant, H Street was in danger of losing its identity. Local citizens created the nonprofit organization H Street Main Street (HSMS) to help spearhead the revitalization efforts. This group works with local government officials, applies for grants, and organizes several annual events to help fund their initiatives. Its H Street Festival alone draws more than 50,000 attendees every year. HSMS’s efforts have resulted in 140 new businesses; 1,579 new jobs; 189 rehabbed buildings; and a storefront vacancy rate of 2 percent. (See National Trust for Historical Preservation, H Street Main Street, Washington, D.C. 2013.)

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

From Hurricane Katrina to the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill, Ocean Springs has faced more than its fair share of difficulties. In 1990, 80 percent of the town’s storefronts were vacant. Over the course of 23 years, Ocean Springs transformed itself into an economic powerhouse by emphasizing the town’s history and promoting the development of its downtown area. Citizens and local business owners play an active role in the town’s development through the Ocean Springs Ambassador Program. Whether it is for the town’s galleries, festivals, or Saturday Fresh Market, Ocean Springs has become a destination for out-of-town travelers. Ocean Springs is also home to a recently expanded museum dedicated to artist Walter Anderson, and a restored soda fountain that was a favorite hangout of Elvis Presley. These efforts have created 319 new businesses; 1,216 new jobs; and 196 rehabilitated buildings, with a resulting storefront vacancy rate of 0 percent. (See National Trust for Historical Preservation, Ocean Springs, Mississippi. 2013.)

Jacksonville, Illinois

In 1999, much of Jacksonville;s cultural history had been stripped away due to a variety of poorly conceived urban renewal initiatives. Over a quarter of the downtown storefronts were vacant. In response to that disturbing trend, Jacksonville committed itself to reclaiming its unique character. This renewal process was a true partnership between the local government and its citizens. The city itself invested $7.6 million in the downtown area, while Jacksonville citizens invested another $17.6 million. These funds went toward restoring the country’s oldest Labor Temple, rehabbing museums, and encouraging business growth. These investments led to the creation of 57 new businesses, 131 new jobs, 6 rehabbed buildings, and a 6 percent storefront vacancy rate. (See National Trust for Historical Preservation, Jacksonville Main Street. 2013.)

Silver City, New Mexico

Originally founded as a mining town, Silver City has historically been subject to the whims of mining concerns and the metals market. This town’s revitalization efforts are about more than maintaining its historical heritage, but are also about ensuring its long-term survival. In 1985, 40 percent of the downtown storefronts were vacant. But the town pulled together and developed new, creative-based industries. Silver City is now a destination for the arts and is home to an artisan-type light manufacturing facility. Silver City’s effort has led to 150 new jobs, 49 new businesses, 151 rehabilitated buildings, and a 13 percent storefront vacancy rate. (See National Trust for Historical Preservation, Silver City Main Street Project. 2013.)

Fort Pierce, Florida

Fort Pierce is another community that has been devastated by hurricanes. But like Ocean Springs, Fort Pierce has demonstrated incredible resilience. In 1988, 40 percent of its downtown storefronts were vacant. The town and its local government committed itself to transforming its downtown area by rehabbing its most beautiful historical landmarks. The city invested $14.5 million and its citizens matched that effort by investing another $25 million. The result is 404 new jobs, 88 new businesses, 136 rehabilitated buildings, and an 8 percent vacancy rate. (See National Trust for Historical Preservation, Main Street Fort Pierce. 2013.)

When a major disaster like the Moore, Oklahoma, tornado hits, the country gets a clear view of the efficiency of emergency and disaster management in both the local area in which the disaster occurred and in the federal government as a whole. Given that most disasters can’t be predicted, it is critically important for the local, state, and federal governments to be thoroughly prepared to ensure each disaster is handled with care and precision.

How Do Local Agencies Prepare and Respond to Disaster?

Preparation and the subsequent response are critical to the success of any emergency and disaster management operation. The Oklahoma tornado hit at a time when many people were performing their normal daily activities. Because it occurred during daylight hours, search and rescue operations could begin immediately following the storm. When qualified first responders arrive at a scene soon after a disaster of this magnitude, it increases the likelihood of finding and rescuing a larger number of survivors. Due to the volume of tornadoes that occur in this area of the country, the state and local governments are well versed in rescue and recovery operations.

How Do the Various First Responders Coordinate Efforts?

The coordination of rescue efforts is essential to success. Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and other first responders often take a systematic approach to emergency and disaster management. These efforts typically begin in the areas that are hit hardest, such as the area surrounding Moore’s Plaza Towers Elementary School. Once the entire area is combed for survivors, first responders will repeat the process to ensure no one is missed. It is also important for first responders to designate a home base so they have a place where they can rest and share information with the public.

How Is the Federal Government Involved?

Natural disasters in this country often become the focus of the federal government. Shortly after the extent of the damage caused by the Oklahoma tornado was realized, President Obama declared the damaged and crippled communities as a federally recognized disaster area. This provides the citizens and businesses of the affected area with access to federal funds set aside for rebuilding. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, uses billions of dollars in resources each year to help with reconstruction efforts, temporary housing, and coverage for uninsured property. Providing devastated areas with this type of funding is critical to ensure the region can return to a sense of normalcy that wouldn’t be possible without assistance.

To determine how much funding to release to the areas impacted by the tornado, FEMA officials will first tour the damaged area and determine the amount of funds to allocate for relief efforts. It is then up to individuals, businesses, and government officials in the affected area to apply for the funding to begin rebuilding.

What Can Other States and Agencies Learn From This Disaster?

While not all areas are as prepared for disasters as they should be, the quick actions of the Oklahoma emergency and disaster management teams made a major difference in saving lives. Given the range of potential natural disasters that can strike in any area of the United States, it is critical for all local and state governments to put an emergency and disaster management plan into place. Having a plan in place isn’t enough, though. Agencies also need to practice these plans to ensure they are able to react with the surety, speed, and accuracy the Oklahoma first responders have exhibited.

Although the devastation in Moore, Oklahoma, is heartbreaking to see, it has demonstrated that when local and state responders are prepared and ready to act, lives can be saved. With their closely coordinated efforts and fast action, first responders move in and save lives, helping the residents and business owners in the area move forward. Public services across the country can use this disaster as an example of the importance of emergency and disaster management preparedness.

We have been reviewing some strategies to help you break down the GRE. This final post focuses on the Analytical Writing section. As its name suggests, the section measures your critical thinking and analytical writing skills. Writing may be an intimidating prospect, so we have pulled together these tips to help you better understand how to approach the Analytical Writing section of the GRE so you can achieve your highest score.

What is the Analytical Writing Section?

The Analytical Writing section measures your ability to think critically about a given issue and express your ideas in writing. The best way to get a high score on this section is to:

• Support your ideas with reasons and examples
• Demonstrate your mastery of written English
• Examine claims and evidence
• Articulate complex ideas

Analytical Writing includes two tasks — Analyze an Issue and Argument:

• The Analyze an Issue task assesses your ability to think critically about a topic of general interest.
• The Argument task assesses your ability to respond to a specific, given argument.

The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6.5. A solid flow and error-free work can boost the score for this section. For example, tests that score a 6 include well-crafted answers and clear explanations with evidential support.

How To Prepare for the Analytical Writing Section

The best way to prepare for the Analytical Writing section is to review samples from past GRE tests. It’s best to seek out samples of good responses and practice breaking those responses down into different parts so that you can do the same when it comes time to take the test. The more familiar you are with crafting an argument with strong support, the more likely you are to succeed on this portion of the test. You can also visit the ETS website for a list of topics that may be used in the Analyze an Issue task. It’s a good idea to be familiar with possible topics so that you can prepare to write about and argue them.

Practicing for the Analytical Writing Section

As you will have only 30 minutes to answer each question, time management is critical during this section. In order to prepare, it’s important to practice in a timed environment. Find a quiet space, set a stopwatch for 30 minutes, and answer a practice question. You will then be able to figure out how much time you need for thinking about your argument, planning your essay (writing an outline), and writing. Figuring out your own writing routine will make the entire section easier. And while there is no specific format recommended on how to structure your essays, it’s important that you follow an approach that suits you and that you clearly state all of your arguments.

You should also budget time to go back and read your essays, allowing time for editing. Spending five to seven minutes reviewing and tightening up your responses can improve syntax, style, and the overall response.

Tips for Improving Your Writing

If you are not confident in your writing style, you can visit the GRE site for resources on writing for the test. If you are still in college, you can get tips from your university’s writing center or English professors; they are generally familiar with how the GRE works.

No matter your writing experience, you will benefit from investing in any number of GRE prep materials, which include practice tests and scoring simulations. These tests will offer you immediate feedback and can provide you with a clear roadmap of how to improve your approach to the Analytical Writing section, as well as increase your confidence and your scores.

Following the tips above can help you craft an effective approach to the Analytical Writing section. If writing is not your strong point, a clear strategy and strong preparation can help you achieve a higher score.

This is the second post in our blog series on breaking down the GRE. This week’s post focuses on the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE. This section includes basic mathematics as well as data analysis. If you weren’t an A student in math class or if it’s been a while since you studied mathematical concepts, the tips below will help you prepare.

What is the Quantitative Reasoning Section?

The Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE tests your ability to understand and analyze data. This includes interpreting quantitative information as well as solving problems via mathematical models in addition to using basic math skills. Four main topics are covered in this section of the test:

• Arithmetic: Some of the concepts covered in this section include arithmetic operations, ratios, absolute values, exponents and roots, estimation, rates, and decimal representation.
• Algebra: In the algebra section, test takers can expect quadratic and linear equations, graphs, word problems, relations, and functions.
• Geometry: Within this section, popular concepts include perimeter and volume, equilateral and isosceles triangles, angle measurements, and congruent figures.
• Data analysis: This section is geared toward descriptive statistics, quartiles and percentiles, standard deviation, and interpreting data from a variety of formats (including tables and graphs).

There are four question types in the Quantitative Reasoning section:

• Quantitative comparison questions: These questions compare two different quantities of something and ask the test-taker to determine whether one quantity is greater, whether they are equal, or whether the answer cannot be determined based on the information provided.
• Multiple-choice questions — select one answer choice: Questions that have only one correct answer choice out of a possible five.
• Multiple-choice questions — select one or more answer choices: Questions with more than one possible correct answer.
• Numeric entry questions: This portion of the GRE requires the entry of an answer to the stated question; examples include using an integer or a decimal in a single answer box or to enter it as a fraction in two separate boxes.

What is the Best Way to Prepare for the Quantitative Reasoning Section?
The best way to prepare for this portion of the GRE is to brush up on math skills. Most of the math tested on the GRE is at the high school level, which is good if you are concerned about your math capabilities. This also means that it may have been several years since you have encountered these mathematical concepts. Reviewing algebra and geometry basics will help you build a general foundation to approach the questions.

Plan your study time according to the level of difficulty of the different question types and math topics. Try to achieve the best possible score in your strongest math areas, but spend the majority of study time on other questions that might require more review.

What are the Best Resources/Tips for the GRE Quantitative Section?

Resource: There are some formulas that can help you prepare for this section of the GRE. These are common concepts that appear frequently on the Quantitative Reasoning portion. Some of the examples of the best formulas can be found online.

Tip: If a particular question is taking too long, skip to the next question or estimate the answer. If an algebra problem seems complex, remember that you can plug in smaller numbers to attempt to get an idea of the answer.

Tip: It is important to remember that you cannot bring a calculator with you on testing day. An on-screen calculator will be provided during the test, and a simulation of what that calculator looks like can be found on the ETS website.

Tip: Taking an online course or purchasing a computer software program that simulates the testing environment is also an excellent way to prepare for the test. Since most people are used to completing mathematics tests on paper, it may help test-takers adjust to the computer style. The bottom line is to create a studying and practicing environment that mirrors the real test environment as closely as possible.

Tip: Working with a tutor can also help you identify potential areas of improvement and tips for tackling those particular challenges.

Remember, preparation is key for success when taking the GRE. It is important to find what study and preparation method works best for you. Be sure to check back next week for our breakdown and tips on the Analytical Writing section of the GRE.