The ACT writing test is a 40-minute essay that requires you to analyze an argument and evaluate the reasoning behind it. Succeeding on this task requires planning, strong writing skills, and the ability to thoughtfully consider different perspectives. Here are some key tips to help you excel on the ACT writing essay:
Plan before you write. Take the first 5 minutes to carefully read and analyze the prompt. Circle key words and underline the argument’s thesis. On your scratch paper, jot down the main points and evidence the author uses to support their argument. Note any questionable assumptions or logical flaws. Outline the main qualities you will discuss in your response such as the argument’s strengths, weaknesses, unstated premises, additional perspectives needed. Planning sets you up for success in the limited time given.
Clearly address the three writing tasks. The ACT writing prompt will include three specific tasks you must complete in your essay response: 1) Analyze and evaluate the reasoning behind the argument. 2) Consider the argument’s assumptions and assess their impact on the conclusion drawn. 3) Discuss alternative perspectives or additional evidence that could affect one’s thinking on the issue. Addressing each task thoroughly and directly is crucial for a high-scoring essay.
Use effective reasoning to analyze the argument. Your essay should thoughtfully consider the logic behind the argument and identify any flaws or gaps in reasoning. For example, you may note unsupported assumptions, questionable generalizations, weak evidence, causal relationships that oversimplify complex issues, alternative explanations that were not addressed. Give specific examples from the text to demonstrate your analysis. Be objective in your discussion – the goal is to evaluate reasoning, not take sides on the issue debated.
Discuss unstated assumptions and their impact. All arguments rely on certain implicit or unstated premises. Part of your job is to uncover these assumptions and assess how they may influence the conclusions drawn. For instance, you may note cultural, ideological or personal biases driving the argument that call into question its objectivity. Discuss the importance or limitations of these assumptions and whether considering alternatives could lead one to a different perspective on the issue.
Present thoughtful alternative perspectives. Your response should demonstrate consideration of views beyond what’s stated in the prompt by discussing other ways to think about the issue or additional information that could affect the conclusion. For example, you may want to acknowledge perspectives from alternative ideological frameworks, consider implications if certain key assumptions did not hold, cite experts who have additional insight, think about how circumstances could change one’s view over time. Providing well-reasoned alternatives shows depth of critical thinking.
Use clear structure with topic sentences. Organize your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence stating the point you will make regarding one of the essay tasks. This provides structure and signposts your reasoning for the reader. Transitions between ideas keep your argument flowing logically. Check that each paragraph and sentence ties back to fulfilling one of the required tasks.
Employ a formal writing style. The ACT writing prompt calls for a formal academic response. Use precise, varied vocabulary and avoid slang. Write in the third person without personal pronouns. Structure complex sentences grammatically with varied types of punctuation. Stick to simple present-tense verbs. Proofread carefully for spelling and grammatical errors which can undermine an otherwise strong analysis. Formal style shows your language competence to evaluate arguments objectively.
Ensure a thoughtful conclusion. Do not just restate your introductory points. The conclusion should synthesize the key elements of your discussion and convey their cumulative significance. You may want to acknowledge open questions, remaining uncertainties, avenues for further exploration or consideration of implications beyond the scope of the initial argument. Fulling addressing the assignment in a logical, cohesive conclusion leaves the graders with a strong, lasting impression of your critical thinking abilities.
Practice timing and reviews. Since you get only 40 minutes for prewriting, drafting and revising, practice your timing. Develop the ability to quickly yet thoroughly analyze prompts and formulate effective responses. Leave 5 minutes at the end to proofread for errors and check you have addressed all components of the three required tasks. While you cannot significantly rework your initial draft during the review period, taking just a minute to improve flow, correct small mistakes or clarify ambiguities can boost your score.
The ACT writing test requires demonstrating strong critical thinking and reasoning abilities within a constrained time frame. Following these tips helps you take advantage of the planning period, directly address what graders look for, show thoughtful consideration of different viewpoints, and communicate your analysis clearly through sound structure and formal writing style. Extensive essay practice is also key to managing time pressures while crafting a high-scoring response. Applying these strategies gives you the best chance to excel on the ACT writing test.
Andrew Stroud