Preparing for the SAT Writing Section

If you are preparing for the SAT, you will want to examine each component of the test. This will better allow you to prepare for this important exam. One component is the writing section. So, what can you expect on the test and how can you prepare?

One component of the writing section of the SAT is multiple choice questions. These questions typically fall into three different categories. They are identifying sentence errors, improving sentences, and improving paragraphs.

With identifying sentence errors, you will have a sentence with a few words or phrases underlined. You need to select which has a better alternative. In some cases, no improvements are necessary, as there are no mistakes. In this instance, you would opt for the multiple choice answer that states “no error.”

With improving sentences, you will be given one sentence. The multiple choice answers will be alternatives. Which is an improvement? Which is the best or proper way to say the sentence? That is your answer.

With improving paragraphs, this is a bit trickier. You will be given a small essay. Each sentence is numbered. You will be told which number sentence you need to examine. The multiple choice questions are your answers. You should read the entire essay, but carefully read up until the sentence in question. The previous sentences will have an impact on your answer. Which is the best revision?

The best way to prepare for the multiple choice questions is to practice good grammar. When speaking or writing in the weeks leading to the test, do not use abbreviations or shorthand. We have all grown accustom to this type of writing and speaking, especially with text messages. Don’t let this be your downfall in the writing section.

Another easy way to prepare for the writing section of the SAT is to review your English notes. It is also a good idea to purchase a grammar guide. They are available for sale in most bookstores, department stores, and online. You may be able to borrow a guide from your school’s English department or local library. Review the guide. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the dos and don’ts of the English language. For example, learn about proper grammar, comma use, run-on sentences, and sentence structure as a whole.

In addition to the multiple choice section, there is an essay. Do not stress. This essay is actually a lot easier than it sounds. You will get an assignment to write about. Topics will vary, but most are very simple. You will be instructed to support your position with reasoning, examples from observations, studies, and real life experiences.

To get a good score, you need to accomplish a number of goals. What are they? Be well organized. Your essay must be easy to read and flow in a proper manner. The reader needs to be able to understand what you are saying. You must get your point across. Next, there is vocabulary. Use good, accurate, and apt vocabulary. Sentence structure is important. You want to use proper grammar. Try to ensure you select the right words, avoid run-on sentences, and so forth. Some mistakes are expected, but try to make them few and far in between.

To prepare for the essay portion of the SAT, use the above mentioned study tips for the multiple choice questions. Review grammar books, your English school notes, and practice good grammar. In fact, you should write a few essays. You will need to handwrite these essays, not use a computer. If you rarely write by hand anymore, this will be good practice. Ask someone, like a schoolteacher, a parent, or another peer to review your essay. What mistakes did they find? Was your essay easy to read? Was your essay supported by facts, real life experiences, and observations or did you just ramble?

In short, there are a few steps that you can take to prepare for the writing section of the SAT. Luckily, this preparation is very easy. Just be sure to brush up on proper grammar and you should be good to go.