ACT Writing Tips
Tip 1: Interview Yourself
The Writing Test prompt will always ask you to evaluate multiple perspectives on an issue and to write about your own perspective. Asking yourself questions is a great way to brainstorm ideas:
- Do I agree or disagree with the first/second/third perspective? Why?
- What has happened to me, or to other people in my life, that has influenced my thoughts on this issue?
- What books have I read that have influenced by opinions on this issue?
- What are some historical examples related to this issue?
- What is my perspective on this issue?
- What examples from my experience support this perspective?
Tip 2: Use the Timing Strategy/h3>
You have 40 minutes to complete your response. This includes the time it takes to read the prompt, plan your response and write. Use your time wisely! The timing strategy below offers guidelines to help you pace yourself as you prewrite and write your essay.
8 Minutes (Prewrite)
- Mark up the prompt.
- Brainstorm.
- Organize your thoughts.
27 Minutes (Write)
- Write your introduction.
- Write your supporting paragraphs.
5 Minutes (Conclude)
How the ACT Writing Test Scoring Works
If you choose to take the optional Writing Test, your response will be scored on the 1-6 scale by two reviewers. These scores will then be combined for the 2-12 score for each competency that will appear on your ACT score report.
These scores will then be combined and translated to a scaled score for Writing on the 1-36 scale. Remember that this section is optional and will not affect your multiple-choice composite score.
Score = 6
Responses at this score point demonstrate effective skill in writing an argumentative essay.
Ideas and Analysis: Argument critically engages with multiple perspectives on the given issue.
Development and Support: Development of ideas and support deepen insight and broaden context.
Organization: Response exhibits a skillful organizational strategy.
Language Use: Use of language enhances the argument.
Score = 5
Responses at this score point demonstrate well-developed skill in writing an argumentative essay.
Score = 4
Responses at this score point demonstrate adequate skill in writing an argumentative essay.
Score = 3
Responses at this score point demonstrate some developing skill in writing an argumentative essay
Score = 2
Responses at this score point demonstrate weak or inconsistent skill in writing an argumentative essay.
Score = 1
Responses at this score point demonstrate little or no skill in writing an argument essay.
Visit www.act.org for more detailed information.