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Join us for Stand Out With Summer Planning on 1/15 at 8 pm EST. Space is limited, register today!
The SAT can be a daunting test, but it is a hurdle that you must jump over en route to your dream college. Although there are a few hundred schools that do not require standardized test scores, the majority of schools practicing holistic admissions, including nearly all of the top colleges and universities, require some standardized testing. So, spending time preparing for standardized testing is paramount to success.
Back in 2005, the SAT added a third “Writing” section to the preexisting Math and Verbal sections, based off the former SAT Writing Subject Test. While this section contains grammar and sentence structure questions, one of the hardest parts of the exam to prepare for is the essay. The SAT essay is a 25-minute timed essay answering a prompt that you are not given beforehand.
You are not rewarded for spewing all that you know on a topic, but rather for your writing skills and language. You are given 45 lines to utilize, and while length is not rewarded, it is wise to use the space given. Be warned, however, that you will not be granted an extra sheet of paper to finish your essay.
Be sure to use your sentence-structure rules from your high school English courses. Standardized test graders love the “three-pronged essay” format, even if you don’t have enough time to support your essay with three examples (less is fine, just use the time wisely and plan ahead). While you are tested on your vocabulary in the Critical Reading section, using powerful and seldom used words in your essay that you learned while studying can also help you gain some extra points.
Remember to write concisely and intelligently. Practice essay prompts are online, and you should practice in test-like conditions (at your desk, quiet and timed). Perhaps a friend, parent or teacher can look the essay over and give pointers. Some high school English courses even offer practice essays in class! Talk to your teacher about it and he or she may be willing to give it a try – it can only benefit the class.
Finally, try your best and use examples from your life or knowledge base. Avoid controversial topics and showing off. It will be good practice for your college applications!
