SAT Prep Plan: SAT Learning Topic - Strategy
Overview for the Writing Section
Strategy Overview for the Writing Section
Description:
The writing section of the SAT comprises
two kinds of questions.
the essay: you will have 25 minutes to write an original essay
on a specific, assigned topic
multiple-choice questions: 49 questions focusing on grammar
and language usage
The essay occupies its own section, allowing you to focus on developing
a clear thesis and outline for the essay. This section is intended
to test your ability to develop and express ideas clearly and effectively.
You will not be required to have special knowledge about the topic;
you are expected to draw upon your experiences from courses you
have taken, reading you have done, and experiences you have had
both inside and outside of school. The essay is scored as a "first
draft," but you will need to have a sound strategy before starting.
The multiple-choice writing questions ask you to demonstrate an
understanding of proper grammar and language usage. These questions
require that you have a fundamental understanding of grammar rules,
although some questions can be answered based on the context of
the question.
For the multiple-choice questions, keep in mind a few general guidelines:
You will not be asked to define grammatical terms or make spelling
corrections. However, you will be required to identify problems
in grammar and usage, and indicate your understanding of basic
writing principles.
Pay attention to punctuation. Sometimes punctuation marks will
help you identify the correct answer, or eliminate answers that
otherwise look acceptable.
Trust your ear. That is, if an answer doesn't sound right, it
probably isn't correct, even if you can't name the specific grammar
rule it's violating.
Learning Resources:
Review the following learning content: