SAT Essay What You Need to Know: Updates, Template, Examples

Even though the SAT Essay is now more of a memory than a requirement, it still offers a sneak peek into what good writing is all about. Back when it was part of the exam, it required analyzing a text to show off your reading, critical thinking, and writing skills. In short, it was a way for colleges to say, "Prove you're ready for the real world."

In this article, we'll lay out straightforward tips for tackling similar essay tasks, point out the usual mistakes, and show you how to put these lessons to work in future assignments.

If you're taking a state-provided SAT, consider this your handy guide. And if you ever need extra academic support, our cheap essay writing service is just a click away.

What Is an SAT Essay?

At one point, the SAT Essay was a must-do section designed to test your knack for dissecting a text and crafting a solid essay. It involved reading a passage and explaining how the author used rhetorical strategies to build their argument. The task required students to demonstrate skills in reading comprehension, critical thinking, and clear writing.

Prior to its discontinuation in 2021, the SAT Essay was scored separately from the multiple-choice sections. You had 50 minutes to get your thoughts on paper, and while it was optional for many, some states still required it during school tests. With feedback from colleges and a push to simplify the exam, the College Board decided to retire the SAT Essay for most test-takers. Even though it's gone, the essay still serves as a useful benchmark for college-level writing skills.

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Benefits of Taking the SAT Essay

Is there an essay on the SAT? No. Will choosing to take it still pay off? Yes! The essay challenges you to sort your thoughts and lay out your ideas clearly.

Here's a quick look at the benefits you'd get by opting in:

How to Get a Good Score on SAT

• SAT Essay Prompts Are Essential. Analyze the provided promptly. It can give you hints about the writer’s intent.
• Introductions Are Essential. Ease your reader into the topic. Focus their attention and remember - it sets the stage for the rest of your essay.
• Use Your Vocabulary & Effective Language. Only use formal language. Don’t repeat points, and watch your grammar. Avoid using simple words, slang, and writing in the first person.
• Avoid Going Off-Topic. Keep your essay precise in regards to the source. It is essential to show the examiner that you have read and understood it.
• Practice Makes Perfect. Looking at SAT essay examples will help you understand how the essay should be written. Practice writing your paper using an SAT essay sample as a reference.

Is SAT Now Optional?

SAT is indeed optional. Very few colleges still practice this approach to applicant screening. But you can still take this test if you’d like to showcase your formidable writing skills. Will it help you when applying to top universities? For example, does Harvard require SAT essay submissions? Ivy League institutions like Harvard have also opted to take SAT test score submission during the application process optional. If you want to get an edge in a competitive environment like this, you have to research modern methods of applicant assessment. Like writing a personal statement.

Read This Before You Get Started on SAT Writing Essay

Before starting the SAT Essay, it's important to prepare yourself mentally and strategically. Here's how to prepare:

1. Know the Format: Break down a passage and focus on how the author builds their argument using reasoning, evidence, and rhetorical tools.
2. Practice Time Management: You have 50 minutes total. Practice by planning for 10 minutes, writing for 30, and reviewing for 10.
3. Understand Rhetorical Strategies: Get familiar with basics like ethos, pathos, and logos. Knowing these will help you spot and explain the author's techniques.
4. Build a Strong Foundation: Keep your writing clear and organized. Use a simple structure: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

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Understanding the SAT Essay Prompts

The SAT Essay prompts are designed to assess how well you can analyze an author's argument, not how well you can argue a point yourself. Here's what to expect:

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The Essay Passage

The passage usually runs about 650–750 words and can touch on social, political, or historical topics. No matter the subject, there's always a clear argument waiting for you to break down its structure and strategy.

Here's how you can analyze the passage:

1. Read Thoroughly: Start by reading the passage carefully. Make sure you understand the author's main argument and message.
2. Spot Rhetorical Techniques: As you read, watch how the author uses language and structure to persuade. Look for tools like rhetorical questions, analogies, or emotional appeals.
3. Note Key Evidence: Pinpoint the examples or facts the author uses to back up their argument. Ask yourself: How does this evidence strengthen the case?

Remember, your task is to analyze how the argument is built, not to debate what it says. Think about why the author chose certain rhetorical strategies and how they enhance the effectiveness of their argument.

Also see related: HOW TO WRITE AN INTRODUCTION.

SAT Essay Template

In 2022, test-takers followed a specific outline to tackle the assignment effectively. Below is a breakdown of a typical SAT Essay template to help guide your writing. Stick to this structure to cover all the key points.

For a complete standard essay outline, check out our dedicated blog post!

5 Golden SAT Essay Tips

To nail the SAT Essay, you need a solid plan. These tips will help you polish your analysis and writing:

1. Understand the Author's Purpose: Rather than just summarizing, explain how the author builds their argument. Figure out whether they're trying to inform, persuade, or provoke, and note the techniques they use.
2. Use Specific Evidence: Skip vague claims. Back up your analysis with clear examples from the text. A direct quote can really drive your point home.
3. Be Objective: Leave your personal opinions at the door. Your job is to analyze the author's strategy, not to weigh in on whether you agree or disagree.
4. Organize Your Essay Clearly: A well-structured essay is easier to follow. Start with a clear introduction, break your analysis into focused body paragraphs, and wrap it up with a concise conclusion.
5. Keep Your Language Concise and Formal: Remember, precision is key in academic writing, so stick to clear, direct language. Avoid overly fancy words.

Common Pitfalls to Look Out For

Even with a solid approach, a few missteps can weaken your essay. Watch out for these pitfalls:

• Ignoring the Prompt: This isn't about your opinion. Your job is to analyze how the author builds their argument, not to debate the topic. Stay focused on the how, not the what.
• Over-Generalizing: Saying "the author uses ethos" without evidence won't cut it. Always back up your claims with specific examples from the text.
• Being Too Vague: "The author uses persuasive techniques" is too broad. Which ones? How do they strengthen the argument? Get specific.
• Over-Complicating Your Language: Big words won't save a weak argument. Keep your writing clear and direct - sophisticated but not stuffy.
• Poor Time Management: Spend too much time on one part, and you might not finish. Rushing leads to mistakes. Stick to a plan, and leave time to review.

SAT Essay Time Management

Time management is one of the most crucial aspects of successfully completing the SAT Essay. With only 50 minutes, every second counts, so it's essential to stay on track. Here's how to break down your time effectively:

1. 5 Minutes - Read and Analyze the Passage: Start by reading the passage carefully, underlining key ideas or rhetorical techniques that stand out. Understand the author's argument and the strategies they use to develop it.
2. 5 Minutes - Plan Your Essay: Quickly outline the structure of your essay. Decide which rhetorical strategies you will focus on, and plan which examples from the passage to include. This ensures your essay remains organized and cohesive.
3. 30 Minutes - Write the Essay: Dedicate the majority of your time to writing the body of your essay. Stick to your outline, and be sure to address at least three rhetorical strategies in separate paragraphs. Your goal is to be thorough but also concise, so avoid over-explaining.
4. 5 Minutes - Revise and Edit: Leave some time at the end to revise your essay. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and ensure that your argument flows logically. Ensure each paragraph has a clear point and that your essay is well-organized.

SAT Essay Examples

Seeing theory in action is the best way to understand how to approach the SAT Essay. Below is a sample response that demonstrates strong analysis and effective use of evidence.

Topics You Should Study for SAT

While the SAT Essay is all about analysis, prepping with the right knowledge helps. Here are key areas to focus on:

• Social & Political Issues: Expect passages on climate change, civil rights, or policies. Read opinion pieces and stay informed on current events.
• History & Culture: Topics may explore historical events or cultural shifts. Understanding how this shaped society will help you analyze arguments effectively.
• Philosophy & Ethics: Ethical dilemmas often come up, like debates on morality in policies or actions. Familiarize yourself with common ethical arguments.
• Environmental Issues: Climate change and sustainability are frequent themes. Follow discussions on these topics and how they're framed in public debate.
• Technology: From privacy concerns to AI advancements, tech's impact on society is a hot topic. Read articles that argue for and against new innovations.

Final Recap

The SAT Essay may no longer be required, but here's a quick summary:

• What It Was: Analyzing an author's argument and rhetorical strategies.
• Benefits: Sharpens writing and analytical skills.
• Key Tips: Stick to the prompt, use solid examples, and stay organized.
• Pitfalls: Don't go off-topic, be vague, or mismanage time.
• Preparation: Stay informed on social issues, history, and tech to improve analysis.

Practice these strategies, and you'll be ready for any analytical writing challenge ahead!

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