Does the word count matter?

[commit.gmat]

Hi,

I noticed from the practice tests that I have been taking that I am averaging about 350 words per essay. I am following the 4 paragraph format.

First para: 2-3 sentences
Second and Third para: 5-6 sentences
Fourth Para: 2-3 sentences.

Stacey, Can you please let me know if the word count and number of sentences are OK to cross the threshold of 4.0. Or, is the word count too less?

Thanks

[StaceyKoprince]

I'm not sure whether they have an official word count. It would matter to some extent, of course, if you really don't write enough. Take a look in your OG11 or 12 - the essay chapter includes some sample essays. See how many words they have. If a 4.0 essay has, say, 400 words, then I'd think 350 would be enough. If a 4.0 has 600 words, then 350 may not be enough. You don't need to be exact; you just want to be in the ballpark.