Get READY for the SAT Essay!

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Get R.E.A.D.Y. for the SAT Essay!

Sre Hgh h he Fe Ke Eees

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ABOUT E

SSA

Y RE

ADY

We teach students how to write well.

We teach students how to write well. In particular, we show how to master the per-In particular, we show how to master the per-suasive essay and

suasive essay and to consistently write to consistently write at a college lat a college level. evel. Our company waOur company was oundeds ounded in 2006 and we

in 2006 and we have been helping students ever since. Initially, our name was "Es-have been helping students ever since. Initially, our name was "Es-say Institute.

say Institute." " We decided to switch to Essay Ready ater we distilled our key writingWe decided to switch to Essay Ready ater we distilled our key writing advice down into ve essential elements:

advice down into ve essential elements: R easons, E xamples, A nswerR easons, E xamples, A nswer, D elight, and, D elight, and Y acht.

Y acht. This R.E.A.DThis R.E.A.D.Y approach was inspired in part by the our st.Y approach was inspired in part by the our step method that lawep method that law students learn or legal writing

students learn or legal writing. . Our R.E.A.D.Our R.E.A.D.YY. . ramework has provramework has proved to be extremelyed to be extremely eective over the past

eective over the past several years--resulting in happy, well prepared studentsseveral years--resulting in happy, well prepared students across the U.S. and around the world.

across the U.S. and around the world. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Essay Ready was ounded by

Essay Ready was ounded by Erick Widman, a lawyer whoErick Widman, a lawyer who grew up in Silicon Valley and had always thought about be grew up in Silicon Valley and had always thought about be--coming a teacher

coming a teacher. . Ater graduating with honors rAter graduating with honors rom UCLA,om UCLA, he nished law school at UC Da

he nished law school at UC Davis in 1999. vis in 1999. He then taughtHe then taught business law to college students in Budapest, Hungary or a business law to college students in Budapest, Hungary or a year

year. He returned . He returned back to Caliornia where he back to Caliornia where he was corporatewas corporate legal counsel at Phil

legal counsel at Philips Corporation or ips Corporation or our years. our years. SeeingSeeing a huge need among students who lack the skills and a huge need among students who lack the skills and con-dence to write well, he launched this

dence to write well, he launched this business in 2006 with business in 2006 with the advice and collabora-the advice and collabora-tion o a high school English teacher.

tion o a high school English teacher. He now lives in Portland, Oregon with his wieHe now lives in Portland, Oregon with his wie and two sons.

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T

Taking Students From Uncertainty aking Students From Uncertainty to Condence •to Condence •

5

W

Why You Should Like and Respect the SAT Essay •hy You Should Like and Respect the SAT Essay •

6

Th

The Cynics are We Cynics are Wrong—the SAT Essay Measures Skills Essential for Success • rong—the SAT Essay Measures Skills Essential for Success • 77

The

TheWriting Section is the Most Important Part of the SAT • 7Writing Section is the Most Important Part of the SAT • 7

G

Great News: You Can Learn How to Score High on the SAT Essay Quickly •reat News: You Can Learn How to Score High on the SAT Essay Quickly •

9

Th

The SAe SAT Essay Is Actually Not that Hard T Essay Is Actually Not that Hard • 10• 10

Why Most Students

Why Most Students Aren’t Strong WAren’t Strong Writers or Prepared for the SAT Essayriters or Prepared for the SAT Essay• 10• 10

The Foundation for Scoring High: Choose

The Foundation for Scoring High: Choose to Write a Persuasive Essayto Write a Persuasive Essay• 11• 11

Students Can Learn to Qu

Students Can Learn to Quickly and ickly and Dramatically Improve Their WrDramatically Improve Their Writingiting• 11• 11

The Key Elements for Success—What Law Students and E

The Key Elements for Success—What Law Students and Essay Ready Students Have in Commonssay Ready Students Have in Common• 12• 12

O

Overview of the Essay R.E.A.D.Y. Approach and the SAT Essay Itself •verview of the Essay R.E.A.D.Y. Approach and the SAT Essay Itself •

13

Core

CorePrinciples of the Principles of the R.E.A.D.YR.E.A.D.Y. Approach • . Approach • 1414

R easons R easons• 16• 16 E xamples E xamples• 16• 16 A nswer A nswer• 17• 17

R.E.A. in the Thesis Statement and Topic Sentences

R.E.A. in the Thesis Statement and Topic Sentences• 18• 18

D elight

D elight• 19• 19

Y acht

Y acht• 19• 19

Key Fact

Key Facts to Know About the s to Know About the SAT Essay • 20SAT Essay • 20

The Thre

The Three-Legged Stool and Details e-Legged Stool and Details or Eachor Each R.E.A.D.Y. Element •R.E.A.D.Y. Element •

21

The

TheThree-Legged Stool: R.E.A. • 22Three-Legged Stool: R.E.A. • 22

R easons R easons• 22• 22 E xamples E xamples• 27• 27 A nswer A nswer• 30• 30 D elight D elight• 31• 31 Y acht Y acht• 33• 33 You Are

You AreNow R.E.A.D.Y. • 35Now R.E.A.D.Y. • 35

T

Teemplate for Essay Review •mplate for Essay Review •

36

Act

Actual Essays with Perfect Scores and ual Essays with Perfect Scores and Explanations •Explanations •

39

Essa Essay 1 • 40y 1 • 40 Essay Essay2 • 432 • 43 Introduction Introduction Chapter 1. Chapter 1. Chapter 2. Chapter 2. Chapter 3. Chapter 3. Chapter 4. Chapter 4. Chapter 5. Chapter 5. Chapter 6. Chapter 6.

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Introduction:

T

Taking

aking Students From Uncertainty

Students From Uncertainty to Condence

to Condence

Few people enjoy eeling uncertain. In act, i you’re like most, you hate being conused— Few people enjoy eeling uncertain. In act, i you’re like most, you hate being conused— especially when it involves guring out how to excel on a

especially when it involves guring out how to excel on a test that will impact test that will impact the rest o yourthe rest o your lie. Most students simply don’t know how to score high on the SAT essay because they are lie. Most students simply don’t know how to score high on the SAT essay because they are not sure what they should be aiming at. However, ater ve years o coaching hund

not sure what they should be aiming at. However, ater ve years o coaching hund reds o reds o students, we are able to show you exactly what you need to do on the SAT essay to score high. students, we are able to show you exactly what you need to do on the SAT essay to score high. We have continually ne-tuned our system and broken it

We have continually ne-tuned our system and broken it down into ve easy-to-rememberdown into ve easy-to-remember elements. By learning to use the

elements. By learning to use the R.E.A.D.Y. approachR.E.A.D.Y. approach, you will not only be able to deliver, you will not only be able to deliver a superb SAT essay

a superb SAT essay, you will be , you will be much better prepared to write well in much better prepared to write well in college and beyond.college and beyond. We’ve done our best to make sure this manual lays out the ve elements in a clear, simp We’ve done our best to make sure this manual lays out the ve elements in a clear, simplele manner. We’ve also included Essay Ready’s standard Essay Review Template as Chapter Five manner. We’ve also included Essay Ready’s standard Essay Review Template as Chapter Five to provide an essential checklist o what your essay should contain. In Chapter Six, be sure to to provide an essential checklist o what your essay should contain. In Chapter Six, be sure to closely examine two essays that Essay Ready

closely examine two essays that Essay Ready students wrote or the actual SAT ater learningstudents wrote or the actual SAT ater learning our approach. Both o these students initially believed that writing was their weakest subject our approach. Both o these students initially believed that writing was their weakest subject on the SAT—and both went on to receive perect scores on the SAT essay. We’ve provided on the SAT—and both went on to receive perect scores on the SAT essay. We’ve provided detailed commentary on the strengths and weaknesses o each o their essays and you will detailed commentary on the strengths and weaknesses o each o their essays and you will be encouraged to see that imperect essays certainly can receive perect scores. We look be encouraged to see that imperect essays certainly can receive perect scores. We look orward to walking you through the

orward to walking you through the R.E.A.D.YR.E.A.D.Y. system so that you . system so that you too can get as too can get as high a scorehigh a score as possible! First, however, let’s look at why we all should be very glad the essay section is as possible! First, however, let’s look at why we all should be very glad the essay section is included on the SAT.

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Chapter 1.

wHy you SHould liKE and RESpEct

tHE

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The Cynics are Wrong—the SAT Essay Measures Skills Essential

or Success

Most students and educators have a strong opinion about the SAT essay, and many have a Most students and educators have a strong opinion about the SAT essay, and many have a negative view o it. Standard complaints—rom both experts and students unhappy with negative view o it. Standard complaints—rom both experts and students unhappy with their scores—emp

their scores—emphasize that its prompts are too vague and its 25 minute time rame is out-hasize that its prompts are too vague and its 25 minute time rame is out-rageously short.

rageously short. Such critics believe these unSuch critics believe these unair writing conditions are the main rair writing conditions are the main reason thateason that students typically produce insincere, mechanical drivel that makes English teachers wince. students typically produce insincere, mechanical drivel that makes English teachers wince. Other detractors believe that the SAT essay promotes supercial writing because students Other detractors believe that the SAT essay promotes supercial writing because students are not supposed to prepare content or it ahead o time—unlike college students who are are not supposed to prepare content or it ahead o time—unlike college students who are always able to study specic material or their in-class or

always able to study specic material or their in-class or take-home writing assignments. Intake-home writing assignments. In addition, some cynical test

addition, some cynical test prep companies scare students about how unreasonably dicultprep companies scare students about how unreasonably dicult the essay section is while simultaneously oering “secrets to ace it.” Finally, many SAT essay the essay section is while simultaneously oering “secrets to ace it.” Finally, many SAT essay skeptics have noted that

skeptics have noted that in the “rin the “real world” o the workplace, bosses simply don’t ask collegeeal world” o the workplace, bosses simply don’t ask college grads general philosophical questions like,

grads general philosophical questions like, “doe“does art s art perorm a useul role in perorm a useul role in society?”society?”

It's true that any two page writing sample produced in just 25 minutes is understandably It's true that any two page writing sample produced in just 25 minutes is understandably rough and c

rough and certainly unpolished. ertainly unpolished. Being polished, Being polished, howeverhowever, is not th, is not the main point. e main point. (Indeed,(Indeed, the college admissions essay is an opportunity or students to show what they can deliver the college admissions essay is an opportunity or students to show what they can deliver without a tight deadline).

without a tight deadline). Overall, what the naysaOverall, what the naysayers need to recognize is that the SAyers need to recognize is that the SAT essayT essay test is not primarily about

test is not primarily about ritigritig—rather it’s undamentally about—rather it’s undamentally about tiig a eressigtiig a eressig those thoughts.

those thoughts.Understanding the true nature o the essay section immediately makes itUnderstanding the true nature o the essay section immediately makes it more relevant or bo

more relevant or both college and th college and the the “real world.“real world.” ” For exampFor example, while an employee probablyle, while an employee probably won’t need to provide her opinion about “whether heroes have been alsely dened in our won’t need to provide her opinion about “whether heroes have been alsely dened in our culture,” she will be asked questions that require a ast response, like, “Is logo A better than culture,” she will be asked questions that require a ast response, like, “Is logo A better than logo B

logo B or our product, or our product, and why?” Orand why?” Or, young doctors , young doctors will need to will need to answer questions like, “Doesanswer questions like, “Does this patient need to go immediately to the operating room or

this patient need to go immediately to the operating room or can he wait a ew hours more?”can he wait a ew hours more?” In the real world o

In the real world o work, we are sometimes required to provide a work, we are sometimes required to provide a written response to thesewritten response to these important questions and sometimes we have to answer verbally

important questions and sometimes we have to answer verbally. . In either case, howeverIn either case, however, a, a good response needs to be

good response needs to be coherent and demonstrate insightul thinking.coherent and demonstrate insightul thinking. Thus, the rst step towards properly understanding

Thus, the rst step towards properly understanding the SAthe SAT Essay is T Essay is recognizing that it is—atrecognizing that it is—at its core—a test o logical reasoning, creative thinking and persuasion. All credible experts its core—a test o logical reasoning, creative thinking and persuasion. All credible experts acknowledge that these skills are needed to quickly and eectively answer questions in the acknowledge that these skills are needed to quickly and eectively answer questions in the workplace. An excellent way to demonstrate the abil

workplace. An excellent way to demonstrate the ability to reason under pressure is by smoothlyity to reason under pressure is by smoothly and eectively responding to an essay assignment within a

and eectively responding to an essay assignment within a short period o short period o time. Wtime. We at Essaye at Essay Ready have a healthy respect or the SAT essay based on this

Ready have a healthy respect or the SAT essay based on this reason alone.reason alone.

The W

The Writing Section

riting Section is the Most

is the Most Important Part

Important Part o the SA

o the SAT

T

I you’re not yet persuaded about how essential the

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tion o the SAT is actually the most impor

tion o the SAT is actually the most important predictor o college academic success or stu-tant predictor o college academic success or stu-dents—more so t

dents—more so than the math or reading shan the math or reading sectionsections! The makers o the SA! The makers o the SAT, the College Board,T, the College Board, conducted an exhaustive study o 150,000 students and ound that the students who score conducted an exhaustive study o 150,000 students and ound that the students who score high on the Writing section end up receiving better grades in college than students who high on the Writing section end up receiving better grades in college than students who don’t score well. Other universities, including the University o Caliornia, have done

don’t score well. Other universities, including the University o Caliornia, have done their owntheir own studies and come to t

studies and come to the same conclusion. Thus, doing well on the Writing and essay portionhe same conclusion. Thus, doing well on the Writing and essay portion o the SAT is incredibly important or students who want to perorm well in college. In act, o the SAT is incredibly important or students who want to perorm well in college. In act, it is hard to imagine doing well in college without superior writing skills because university it is hard to imagine doing well in college without superior writing skills because university classes require a signicant number o term papers and in-class written midterms.

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Chapter 2.

GREat nEwS about tHE Sat ESSay:

you can lEaRn How to ScoRE HiGH

QuicKly

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The SAT Essay Is Actually Not that Hard

Now that it’s clear that the SAT essay is important or your success in college and the workplace, Now that it’s clear that the SAT essay is important or your success in college and the workplace, you may be a bit discouraged i you have never been a strong writer. Perhaps you preer math you may be a bit discouraged i you have never been a strong writer. Perhaps you preer math and science because these subjects have clear “rules” that you can master and apply. Or maybe and science because these subjects have clear “rules” that you can master and apply. Or maybe you are an international student who speaks

you are an international student who speaks English as a second or English as a second or third (or ourth!) language andthird (or ourth!) language and eel intimidated at the prospect o having to write a detailed essay in 25 minutes. The welcome eel intimidated at the prospect o having to write a detailed essay in 25 minutes. The welcome news or everyone taking the SAT is that the essay section—despite what you may currently news or everyone taking the SAT is that the essay section—despite what you may currently be-lieve—is actually airly easy

lieve—is actually airly easy and perhaps even un once you have mastered certain undamentals.and perhaps even un once you have mastered certain undamentals. Specically, “the undamentals” we’re reerring to are

Specically, “the undamentals” we’re reerring to are the key components o any pthe key components o any persuasive essayersuasive essay,, which we've summarized in our R.E.A.D.Y. approach. Our students simply aren't intimidated by which we've summarized in our R.E.A.D.Y. approach. Our students simply aren't intimidated by the SAT essay because they have learned

the SAT essay because they have learned an excellent way to crat a response.an excellent way to crat a response.

Why Most Student

Why Most Students Aren’t Strong Writers o

s Aren’t Strong Writers or Prepared or

r Prepared or the SA

the SAT

T

Essay

How is it possible that so many students do

How is it possible that so many students don’t possess essential writing skills and are unpreparedn’t possess essential writing skills and are unprepared or the SAT essay? The answer to this question comes in two parts.

or the SAT essay? The answer to this question comes in two parts. First, tere is a geie ac  First, tere is a geie ac  efectie, sie giace r ritig e i

efectie, sie giace r ritig e i geera a te SAT essay i articar.geera a te SAT essay i articar. The Essay Ready The Essay Ready team has read every reputable SAT essay book and manual on the market (at least ten) and ound team has read every reputable SAT essay book and manual on the market (at least ten) and ound that the vast majority o them don’t provide clear, practical advice on how to consistently write that the vast majority o them don’t provide clear, practical advice on how to consistently write well. This o course motivated us to meet the need by spelling out our own simple R.E.A.D.Y. well. This o course motivated us to meet the need by spelling out our own simple R.E.A.D.Y. method that has now been used or over our years to help students achieve top scores on the method that has now been used or over our years to help students achieve top scores on the SAT Essay. In addition, the College Board unintentionally rustrates students because it doesn’t SAT Essay. In addition, the College Board unintentionally rustrates students because it doesn’t specically state the type o essay that students should write. Although test-takers can choose specically state the type o essay that students should write. Although test-takers can choose essentially any style o essay—including a narrative or

essentially any style o essay—including a narrative or expository ormat—we’ve ound that writ-expository ormat—we’ve ound that writ-ing a persuasive essay is clearly best, as explained in the next section below.

ing a persuasive essay is clearly best, as explained in the next section below.

Second, many busy teachers don’t have time to thoroughly prepare students for college-level academic Second, many busy teachers don’t have time to thoroughly prepare students for college-level academic ritig.

ritig. Teaching writing is incredibly time consuming and large class sizes don't allow students Teaching writing is incredibly time consuming and large class sizes don't allow students to get the attention they need.

to get the attention they need. Also, the vast majority o all writing in Also, the vast majority o all writing in both college and in theboth college and in the workplace is persuasive or argumentative writing—setting orth a point o view and urging workplace is persuasive or argumentative writing—setting orth a point o view and urging oth-ers to adopt it or c

ers to adopt it or certain reasons. Unortunately, ertain reasons. Unortunately, many students don't get enough practice andmany students don't get enough practice and training in thi

training in this type o academic, persuasive writing. s type o academic, persuasive writing. Instead, much o Instead, much o their writing experiencetheir writing experience comes rom journaling, refection papers, or other

comes rom journaling, refection papers, or other orms o creative orms o creative writing. writing. As a result, studentsAs a result, students oten get in the habit o producing overly casual personal musings lled with mushy thinking oten get in the habit o producing overly casual personal musings lled with mushy thinking whenever they’re asked to provide their opinion in wri

whenever they’re asked to provide their opinion in wri ting. ting. Many Many students thereore students thereore still needstill need to learn how

to learn how to clearly use to clearly use logic and eective examples to support a particular position. logic and eective examples to support a particular position. They'llThey'll be required to do so on the SAT essay and will need to continue writing in this way throughout be required to do so on the SAT essay and will need to continue writing in this way throughout college and their

college and their entire proessional entire proessional careers. careers. (Note: everyone—even proessional ction writers(Note: everyone—even proessional ction writers or bakers—must write business letters rom time to time!)

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The Foundation or Scoring High: Choose to Write a Persuasive

Essay

The College Board has stated that students can choose a variety o dierent ways to respond to The College Board has stated that students can choose a variety o dierent ways to respond to

the SA

the SAT essay prompt and T essay prompt and assignmenassignment. You can opt or t. You can opt or a writing sta writing style that is “narrative, expository,yle that is “narrative, expository, persuasive or argumentative.” However, it is extremely dicult to write an eective essay that persuasive or argumentative.” However, it is extremely dicult to write an eective essay that is not persuasive or argumentative given the actual types o questions that are asked. The vast is not persuasive or argumentative given the actual types o questions that are asked. The vast majority o SAT essay questions are designed to be answered with a clear “yes” or “no” response majority o SAT essay questions are designed to be answered with a clear “yes” or “no” response that is supported by reasoning and examples. For example, consider the question, “Is change that is supported by reasoning and examples. For example, consider the question, “Is change always good?” It would be dicult to answer this question with an expository approach because always good?” It would be dicult to answer this question with an expository approach because such essays primarily involve explaining something—like when writing a report or an overview such essays primarily involve explaining something—like when writing a report or an overview o a topic. However, i you were instead asked to “Dene change,” then an expository ormat o a topic. However, i you were instead asked to “Dene change,” then an expository ormat would be appropriate. Overall, given

would be appropriate. Overall, given the type o questions that are askedthe type o questions that are asked, you should avoid an, you should avoid an expository response.

expository response.

Similarly, in theory, you could eectively write a narrative essay, or provide a story, that responds Similarly, in theory, you could eectively write a narrative essay, or provide a story, that responds to the typical SAT essay question. However, Essay Ready has ound that narrative essays don’t to the typical SAT essay question. However, Essay Ready has ound that narrative essays don’t consistently score as high as persuasive or argumentative essays. Par

consistently score as high as persuasive or argumentative essays. Part o the reason or this couldt o the reason or this could be that reading one stor

be that reading one story involving a studenty involving a student’s lie is not as compelling as a persuasive essay that’s lie is not as compelling as a persuasive essay that displays strong logical reasoning and reerences multiple

displays strong logical reasoning and reerences multiple examples rom history, science, or lit-examples rom history, science, or

lit-erature.

erature.Based on the eectiveness o the persuasive essay ormat, this is the approach we teachBased on the eectiveness o the persuasive essay ormat, this is the approach we teach students using our R.

students using our R.E.AE.A.D..D.YY. method. Another import. method. Another important clue rom the College Board that showsant clue rom the College Board that shows why a persuasive essay approach is best

why a persuasive essay approach is best, is that , is that a “persuasive” essay and an “argumentative” essaya “persuasive” essay and an “argumentative” essay are essentially the exact same thing—the College Board mentions both as options or the type are essentially the exact same thing—the College Board mentions both as options or the type o essay students can choose to write. Ater s

o essay students can choose to write. Ater students recognize the superiorittudents recognize the superiority o choosing a per-y o choosing a per-suasive essay ormat, they can start learning the specics o how to score high on the SAT essay. suasive essay ormat, they can start learning the specics o how to score high on the SAT essay.

Students Can Learn to Quickly and Dramatically Improve Their

Writing

Our experience is that the main issue students struggle with regarding their writing is that they Our experience is that the main issue students struggle with regarding their writing is that they simply don’t know what a go

simply don’t know what a good, eective perod, eective persuasive essay actually looks like. Consequently, theysuasive essay actually looks like. Consequently, they don’t know what they should be aiming at or how to improve. This lack o understanding and don’t know what they should be aiming at or how to improve. This lack o understanding and direction is rustrating, and many students—or good reason—lack condence when they think direction is rustrating, and many students—or good reason—lack condence when they think about writing

about writing the SAthe SAT essay. HoweverT essay. However, the great news is that , the great news is that the R.Ethe R.E.A.A.D..D.YY. approach is ex. approach is extremelytremely eective and students who implement it have experienced dramatic improvement in both their eective and students who implement it have experienced dramatic improvement in both their SAT essay scores and writing in general.

SAT essay scores and writing in general.

O course, any genuine skill will not develop overnight. For example, it certainly takes a great O course, any genuine skill will not develop overnight. For example, it certainly takes a great

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amount o time to develop a good

amount o time to develop a good vocabulary that a persovocabulary that a person can use naturally. Although studentsn can use naturally. Although students can memorize the meaning o abstruse words, it’s much more challenging to seamlessly insert can memorize the meaning o abstruse words, it’s much more challenging to seamlessly insert these words into their speaking and writing. In act

these words into their speaking and writing. In act, the best way to , the best way to develop an extensive vocabu-develop an extensive vocabu-lary is to read a great deal and then practice using these new words in writing and conversation. lary is to read a great deal and then practice using these new words in writing and conversation. This requires time and practice.

This requires time and practice.

Similarly, becoming a well-rounded, excellent writer takes sustained eort and a signicant Similarly, becoming a well-rounded, excellent writer takes sustained eort and a signicant amount o practice. Proessional writers and authors hone their crat over decades. However, amount o practice. Proessional writers and authors hone their crat over decades. However, because most high school students do not have a solid understanding o the best way to crat a because most high school students do not have a solid understanding o the best way to crat a persuasive essay, when they’re pointed in the right direction their writing takes o like a rocket. persuasive essay, when they’re pointed in the right direction their writing takes o like a rocket. Simply applying a ew important writing principles makes a huge impact on how well students Simply applying a ew important writing principles makes a huge impact on how well students perorm. Keep in mind, however, that merely mastering new vocabulary words or attempting to perorm. Keep in mind, however, that merely mastering new vocabulary words or attempting to use a “shortcut,” “trick,” or “secret” will not improve your writing quickly or cause you to score use a “shortcut,” “trick,” or “secret” will not improve your writing quickly or cause you to score high on the SAT essay.

high on the SAT essay. Rater, te ey t efectie ersasie ritig is t ear  t aser ay Rater, te ey t efectie ersasie ritig is t ear  t aser ay question—either written or oral—with a

question—either written or oral—with a clearclear, logical , logical and well-supported response.and well-supported response. This is not ground- This is not ground-breaking, but it is surprising how many students don’t yet know how to answer questions in a breaking, but it is surprising how many students don’t yet know how to answer questions in a compelling, eective manner.

compelling, eective manner.

The Key Elements or Success—What Law Students and Essay

Ready Students Have in Common

Essay Ready has distilled the essential writing guidance you nee

Essay Ready has distilled the essential writing guidance you need into ve key elements. Doing sod into ve key elements. Doing so was certainly a challenge and we worked hard to make our approach simple and straightorward. was certainly a challenge and we worked hard to make our approach simple and straightorward. We’re very pleased to see our

We’re very pleased to see our students achieving excellent results—and this students achieving excellent results—and this arms that we havearms that we have created a remarkably eective approach. The ve elements needed to write a high-scoring SAT created a remarkably eective approach. The ve elements needed to write a high-scoring SAT Essay are all contained in the easy to remember acronym R.E.A.D.Y.

Essay are all contained in the easy to remember acronym R.E.A.D.Y. Part o the

Part o the inspiration or our approachinspiration or our approachcame rom the method law school studcame rom the method law school students are taught toents are taught to analyze legal questions. Lawyers are taught to be persuasive based upon logical reasoning and analyze legal questions. Lawyers are taught to be persuasive based upon logical reasoning and clear writing and many law students benet rom an acronym to guide their writing: IRAC (Issue, clear writing and many law students benet rom an acronym to guide their writing: IRAC (Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion). We’ve ound that high school and college students denitely benet Rule, Analysis, Conclusion). We’ve ound that high school and college students denitely benet rom similar guidance in the orm o an acronym tailored to persuasive essays. In act, law school rom similar guidance in the orm o an acronym tailored to persuasive essays. In act, law school students are oten good writers already but most still need the additional structure that a students are oten good writers already but most still need the additional structure that a step-by-step approach provides. Also, or those

step approach provides. Also, or those concerned that ocusing on specic elements might makeconcerned that ocusing on specic elements might make writing too mechanical, you’ll see later in this book that the R.E.A.D.Y. method in general is quite writing too mechanical, you’ll see later in this book that the R.E.A.D.Y. method in general is quite fexible. Essay Ready students have great reedom within the orm or structure we recommend. fexible. Essay Ready students have great reedom within the orm or structure we recommend. This next

This next chapter contains an overview o the chapter contains an overview o the entire R.E.entire R.E.A.D.A.D.YY. approach and . approach and the ollowing chaptersthe ollowing chapters ocus in detail on each individual element. We hope you are as excited as we are to get started! I ocus in detail on each individual element. We hope you are as excited as we are to get started! I not, remember that becoming a better writer will earn you a better score on the SAT, which will not, remember that becoming a better writer will earn you a better score on the SAT, which will get you into an excellent college—and that is always exciting.

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Chapter 3.

ovERviEw oF tHE ESSay R.E.a.d.y.

appRoacH and tH

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Our system was d

Our system was designed to teach you how to write the besesigned to teach you how to write the best possible persuasive essay. Here ist possible persuasive essay. Here is a concise summary o how it works, ollowed by key acts to know about the SAT essay itsel: a concise summary o how it works, ollowed by key acts to know about the SAT essay itsel:

Core Principles o the R.E.A.D.Y. Approach

The R.E.A.D.Y. acronym stands or:

The R.E.A.D.Y. acronym stands or: Reasons, Examples, Answer, Delight and Yacht.Reasons, Examples, Answer, Delight and Yacht. The First Three Elements are

The First Three Elements are FoundatioFoundational:nal: Reasons (R), Examples (E), Answer (A). They areReasons (R), Examples (E), Answer (A). They are like the three legs o a stool—each is essential i your essay will be able to bear the weight o like the three legs o a stool—each is essential i your essay will be able to bear the weight o the grader who “sits” upon it and scrutinizes it. Don’t give your grader a aulty stool that will the grader who “sits” upon it and scrutinizes it. Don’t give your grader a aulty stool that will tip over by only including one or two o the three legs.

tip over by only including one or two o the three legs.

All Paragraphs Need at Least To Key Elements and Most Paragraphs Should Have All All Paragraphs Need at Least To Key Elements and Most Paragraphs Should Have All Three:

Three: The key elemen The key elements can be used ts can be used in any orderin any order—A.R.E., —A.R.E., E.R., or E.R., or E.R.A. E.R.A. are all very eectiveare all very eective.. Thesis Statements:

Thesis Statements: All thesis statements should consist o at least the A. and RAll thesis statements should consist o at least the A. and R. elements and. elements and can also include an E. element. In addition, thesis statements should include either multiple can also include an E. element. In addition, thesis statements should include either multiple Examples or multiple Main Reasons, but not both (we illustrate this in detail below).

Examples or multiple Main Reasons, but not both (we illustrate this in detail below). Topic Sentences:

Topic Sentences: Topic sentences should include two or three o the key R.E.A. elements. I Topic sentences should include two or three o the key R.E.A. elements. I two elements are included, then the third element should show up somewhere else in that two elements are included, then the third element should show up somewhere else in that body paragraph—a good place or this is the nal, summary sentence o the paragraph. body paragraph—a good place or this is the nal, summary sentence o the paragraph. The Upside-Don Pyramid:

The Upside-Don Pyramid: Imagine that each paragraph in your essay is an upside-downImagine that each paragraph in your essay is an upside-down pyramid.

pyramid. The broadest part is at the top and it becomes narrower The broadest part is at the top and it becomes narrower till it ends at a till it ends at a point onpoint on the bottom. This symbolizes that each paragraph should start out in a broader, more general the bottom. This symbolizes that each paragraph should start out in a broader, more general way and end up making a

way and end up making a specic point. specic point. We recommend thaWe recommend that the last, summary sentence t the last, summary sentence o o most o your paragraphs includes your Answer and also connects your Answer to your thesis. most o your paragraphs includes your Answer and also connects your Answer to your thesis. Eamples o ho to anser a

Eamples o ho to anser a question using the three key elements.question using the three key elements. Consider the ques-Consider the ques-tion, “Is change always good?”

tion, “Is change always good?” One straightor

One straightorward way to answer this question is to use one Main Reason and three Eward way to answer this question is to use one Main Reason and three Examples:xamples:

Change is not always good because new deve

Change is not always good because new developlopments arements are oten harmul, as shown by the atomic bomb,

oten harmul, as shown by the atomic bomb, The Great GatThe Great Gatsbysby,, and the all o the Roman Empire.

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Note that this response used A.R.E. as its order: Note that this response used A.R.E. as its order:

Now here is a response using the same single Main Reason and three Examples, but taking Now here is a response using the same single Main Reason and three Examples, but taking E.A.R. as its order:

E.A.R. as its order:

In contrast, here is a way to respond to the question by providing the Answer and three Main In contrast, here is a way to respond to the question by providing the Answer and three Main Reasons—an A.R. approach:

Reasons—an A.R. approach:

Note that these one-sentence responses using two

Note that these one-sentence responses using two or three key elements make excellent thesisor three key elements make excellent thesis statements!

statements!

The atomic bomb,

The atomic bomb, Te Great Te Great Gatsby,Gatsby, and the all o the Romanand the all o the Roman Empire show that change is not always good because new Empire show that change is not always good because new developments are oten harmul.

developments are oten harmul. E xAMPLES:

E xAMPLES: “The atomic bomb,“The atomic bomb, Te Great Te Great Gatsby,Gatsby, and the alland the all o the Roman Empire show that”

o the Roman Empire show that” A NSwER:

A NSwER: “change is not always good”“change is not always good” R EASON:

R EASON: “because new developments are oten harmul.”“because new developments are oten harmul.” A NSwER:

A NSwER: “Change is not always good”“Change is not always good” R EASON:

R EASON: “because new developments are oten harmul”“because new developments are oten harmul” E xAMPLES:

E xAMPLES: “as shown by the atomic bomb,“as shown by the atomic bomb, The Great Gatsby,The Great Gatsby, and the all o the Roman Empire.”

and the all o the Roman Empire.”

A NSwER:

A NSwER: “Change is not always good”“Change is not always good” R EASONS:

R EASONS: “because advancements in technology can be“because advancements in technology can be dangerous, becoming wealthy can create more problems than dangerous, becoming wealthy can create more problems than it solves, and the passage o time does not always improve it solves, and the passage o time does not always improve quality o lie.”

quality o lie.”

Change is not always good because advancements in Change is not always good because advancements in techno-logy can be dangerous, becoming wealthy can create more logy can be dangerous, becoming wealthy can create more problems than it solves, and the passage o time does not problems than it solves, and the passage o time does not al-ways improve quality o lie.

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Reasons

To Categories o Reasons:

To Categories o Reasons: every well-written essay should have at least one Main Reasonevery well-written essay should have at least one Main Reason and multiple Supporting Reasons.

and multiple Supporting Reasons. Main Reason:

Main Reason: Your essay should have between one and three Main Reasons or your answerYour essay should have between one and three Main Reasons or your answer to the question or assignment. A Main Reason is a sup

to the question or assignment. A Main Reason is a supreme “reason why” your position is trureme “reason why” your position is true.e. Your Main Reason(s) should be included in your thesis statement and reiterated in a slightly Your Main Reason(s) should be included in your thesis statement and reiterated in a slightly rephrased version in your conclusion.

rephrased version in your conclusion.

Ho to Decide Upon the Number o Main Reasons:

Ho to Decide Upon the Number o Main Reasons: Determine how many Main ReasonsDetermine how many Main Reasons will be in your essay during the brainstorming process.

will be in your essay during the brainstorming process. For the SAFor the SAT essay, an exT essay, an excellent ap-cellent ap-proach is to pro

proach is to provide just one Main Reason supported by two or three vide just one Main Reason supported by two or three examples. examples. HoweverHowever, i , i you can’t decide on one Main Reason, or i you simply would preer to provide two or three you can’t decide on one Main Reason, or i you simply would preer to provide two or three Main Reasons, then you can organize your essay this way.

Main Reasons, then you can organize your essay this way. Remember, your Main Reason(sRemember, your Main Reason(s) go) go in your thesis statement and should be reerenced throughout your essay.

in your thesis statement and should be reerenced throughout your essay. Reasons—Supporting Reasons:

Reasons—Supporting Reasons: Your essay will contain many assertions that need to be Your essay will contain many assertions that need to be jus- jus-tied by Supporting Reasons included in every paragraph. Supporting Reasons demonstrate tied by Supporting Reasons included in every paragraph. Supporting Reasons demonstrate your “reasoning” throughout your essay as you explain why your examples contribute to your your “reasoning” throughout your essay as you explain why your examples contribute to your central argument or answer to the question.

central argument or answer to the question.

Eample of One Main Reason in an Essay and Thesis

Eample of One Main Reason in an Essay and Thesis:: Consider the same question, “Is changeConsider the same question, “Is change always good?” As noted above, an A.R.E. thesis statement with the single Main Reason in bold always good?” As noted above, an A.R.E. thesis statement with the single Main Reason in bold text could be:

text could be: Cage is t aays g Cage is t aays g because new developments are often because new developments are often harmful,harmful, asas s by te atic bb, te Great Gatsby, a te a  te Ra Eire.

s by te atic bb, te Great Gatsby, a te a  te Ra Eire. Eample of Multiple Main Reasons in

Eample of Multiple Main Reasons in an Essay and Thesis:an Essay and Thesis: Now let’s look again at an exam-Now let’s look again at an exam-ple o three Main Reasons in an essay and a thesis statement.

ple o three Main Reasons in an essay and a thesis statement. Note that Main Reason(sNote that Main Reason(s) should) should be included in the

be included in the thesis statement rather than Supporting Reasons.thesis statement rather than Supporting Reasons. Change is not always good Change is not always good because advancement

because advancements in s in technologtechnology can y can be dangerous, becoming wealthy can be dangerous, becoming wealthy can create morecreate more problems than it solves, and the

problems than it solves, and the passage of time does passage of time does not always improvnot always improve quality of e quality of life.life.

Examples

Use Three or To Impressive Eamples:

Use Three or To Impressive Eamples: The SAT essay is best answered with three or twoThe SAT essay is best answered with three or two specic examples taken rom literature, history, science, art, or current events—and ideally each specic examples taken rom literature, history, science, art, or current events—and ideally each example should be rom a dierent category or variety. It’s also acceptable to use personal example should be rom a dierent category or variety. It’s also acceptable to use personal experiences. However, most graders—and teachers in general—simply are more impressed experiences. However, most graders—and teachers in general—simply are more impressed i students can reer to Socrates, or example, rather than their experience on a sports team. i students can reer to Socrates, or example, rather than their experience on a sports team.

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Eamples and the

Eamples and the Thesis Statement:Thesis Statement: As long as your thesis statement doesn’t get too long,As long as your thesis statement doesn’t get too long, it’s a good approach to include your examples in your thesis.

it’s a good approach to include your examples in your thesis. For example, i you take the ap-For example, i you take the ap-proach o providing one Main Reason or your thesis, then you denitely should also list out proach o providing one Main Reason or your thesis, then you denitely should also list out your examples in the thesis as well. However, i you have multiple Main Reasons in your essay your examples in the thesis as well. However, i you have multiple Main Reasons in your essay and thesis, then you won’t be able to also list your examples because the thesis will become and thesis, then you won’t be able to also list your examples because the thesis will become too long.

too long.

Discuss Each Eample in Its

Discuss Each Eample in Its On Paragraph:On Paragraph: You should analyze each example in its ownYou should analyze each example in its own paragraph.

paragraph. Thereore, i your essay has two examples, it should have a total o our paragraphs.Thereore, i your essay has two examples, it should have a total o our paragraphs. Also, we recommend including each specic example in the topic sentence o each body Also, we recommend including each specic example in the topic sentence o each body paragraph.

paragraph.

Sample Eamples:

Sample Eamples: Consider the same question, “Is change always good?” Let’s say you Consider the same question, “Is change always good?” Let’s say you decidedecide upon one Main Reason or your

upon one Main Reason or your response. Thereore, the thesis, with the examples in bold texresponse. Thereore, the thesis, with the examples in bold text,t, could be:

could be: Cage is t aays g becase e eeets are Cage is t aays g becase e eeets are te ar,te ar, as shown by as shown by the atomic bomb, the Great Gatsby, and the fall of the Roman Empire.

the atomic bomb, the Great Gatsby, and the fall of the Roman Empire.

Answer

Respond Directly to

Respond Directly to the Question ith the Question ith YYour Anser:our Anser: Every essay must directly respond toEvery essay must directly respond to the specic question or

the specic question or assignmenassignment that you are asked. You must be t that you are asked. You must be very careul not to very careul not to provideprovide an Answer to a slightly dierent question you would preer to respond to. The Answer should an Answer to a slightly dierent question you would preer to respond to. The Answer should ollow the wording o the question but can be rephrased i the meaning is not changed. ollow the wording o the question but can be rephrased i the meaning is not changed. Include Anser in

Include Anser in Thesis Statement and Elsehere:Thesis Statement and Elsehere: The Answer must be clearly includedThe Answer must be clearly included in the thesis statement and in the conclusion. Remember that every thesis statement must in the thesis statement and in the conclusion. Remember that every thesis statement must always provide the Answer and one or more Reasons. The Answer—or the key words or ideas always provide the Answer and one or more Reasons. The Answer—or the key words or ideas o the question—should also be reerenced in every single body paragraph.

o the question—should also be reerenced in every single body paragraph. The Anser and Body Paragraphs:

The Anser and Body Paragraphs: Our recommended approach is to include the AnswerOur recommended approach is to include the Answer in the nal,

in the nal, summary sentence o summary sentence o each body paragraph. each body paragraph. By viewing each paragraph aBy viewing each paragraph as ans an

upside-upside-down pyramid, the very end down pyramid, the very end o each paragraph o each paragraph should be very specic. should be very specic. Thus, the -Thus, the -nal sentence should wrap up the a-nalysis o the paragraph by providing the Answer and also nal sentence should wrap up the analysis o the paragraph by providing the Answer and also connecting it to the thesis.

connecting it to the thesis. Example o an Anser:

Example o an Anser: Consider the same question, “Is change always good?” The thesisConsider the same question, “Is change always good?” The thesis statement or a response, with the Answer in bold text, could be:

statement or a response, with the Answer in bold text, could be: Change is not always good Change is not always good becase e eeets are te ar, as s by te atic bb, te Great Gatsby, becase e eeets are te ar, as s by te atic bb, te Great Gatsby, a te a  te Ra Eire.

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R.E

R.E.A

.A. Elements in

. Elements in the Thesis Statemen

the Thesis Statement and

t and T

Topic Sentence

opic Sentencess

THESIS STATEMENT AND THE KEY ELEMENTS. THESIS STATEMENT AND THE KEY ELEMENTS. To Elements in Thesis Statement:

To Elements in Thesis Statement: Every thesis statement needs to contain at least twoEvery thesis statement needs to contain at least two o the key elements: Answer and Reason.

o the key elements: Answer and Reason. A helpul way to remember this is that every thesisA helpul way to remember this is that every thesis needs, at a minim

needs, at a minimum, the “talk like um, the “talk like a pirate” elements: a pirate” elements: “A.R!” “A.R!” YYou should choose a ou should choose a two-two-elementelement A.R. approach or your thesis when you have multiple Main Reasons that you will list out. A.R. approach or your thesis when you have multiple Main Reasons that you will list out. Here is an

Here is an A.A.R.R.thesis responding to the same question, “Is it better to be rich or poor?”thesis responding to the same question, “Is it better to be rich or poor?”

Your body paragraphs will be organized according to these Main Reasons and will ollow the Your body paragraphs will be organized according to these Main Reasons and will ollow the same order.

same order.

All Three Elements in Thesis:

All Three Elements in Thesis: As noted earlier, ordering the three key elements as A.R.E.As noted earlier, ordering the three key elements as A.R.E. (as in “Y

(as in “You A.R.ou A.R.E. smart!”E. smart!”) is a clear ) is a clear way to write out a stellar way to write out a stellar thesis statement. thesis statement. Start with yourStart with your Answer,

Answer, ollowed by the ollowed by the Main Reason and then set out Main Reason and then set out your Examples. your Examples. Remember that youRemember that you should choose a three element A.R

should choose a three element A.R.E. approach or the thesis when you have one Main Reason.E. approach or the thesis when you have one Main Reason or your position.

or your position. For example, consider the question, “Is it better to be rich or poorFor example, consider the question, “Is it better to be rich or poor?”?” An

An A.A.R.R.E.E.thesis statement could answer this question in one sentence as ollows:thesis statement could answer this question in one sentence as ollows:

TOPIC SENTENCES. TOPIC SENTENCES. Topic senten

Topic sentences need to summarize the main point o each supporces need to summarize the main point o each supporting or body ting or body paragraph andparagraph and also tie into the thesis statement.

also tie into the thesis statement. An excellent approach An excellent approach or topic sentences is to haor topic sentences is to have themve them include two o the three key elements—typically E. and R.

include two o the three key elements—typically E. and R. AlternativelyAlternatively, you could include all, you could include all three elements, but be sure that your topic sentences don’t sound too similar to your thesis. three elements, but be sure that your topic sentences don’t sound too similar to your thesis. To Elements in Topic Sentence:

To Elements in Topic Sentence: AnAn E.E.R.R.topic sentence could be:topic sentence could be: It is preerable to be wealthy rather than poor

It is preerable to be wealthy rather than poor because greatbecause great

nancial resources can provide political connections, business

opportunities, and an excellent education.

“It is preerable to be wealthy rather than poor

“It is preerable to be wealthy rather than poor because richbecause rich

people have more opportunities in lie,

people have more opportunities in lie, as shown by Teddyas shown by Teddy

Roosevelt, Atlas Shrugged, and Julius Caesar.”

“Teddy Roosevelt’s lie

“Teddy Roosevelt’s lie was ull o opportunities or politicalwas ull o opportunities or political

connections.”

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Three Elements in Topic Sentence:

Three Elements in Topic Sentence: AnAn E.E.A.A.R.R.topic sentence could be:topic sentence could be:

Delight

A Job Intervie for College.

A Job Intervie for College. Write the SAWrite the SAT essay as i it were a T essay as i it were a job interview to bjob interview to be a proessionale a proessional student with a bright uture. Demonstrate competence, breadth o learning, and an optimistic student with a bright uture. Demonstrate competence, breadth o learning, and an optimistic condence. Delight your interviewer.

condence. Delight your interviewer. writing Style.

writing Style. Your writing style should be slightly ormal and more academic than not. WearYour writing style should be slightly ormal and more academic than not. Wear a suit to the job interview rather than shorts and a tank top.

a suit to the job interview rather than shorts and a tank top. Tone.

Tone. The tone o your essay should be like that o an opinion piece in the newspaper and soThe tone o your essay should be like that o an opinion piece in the newspaper and so avoid slang, inormal language or clichéd phrases.

avoid slang, inormal language or clichéd phrases. Vocabulary.

Vocabulary. Write using descriptive, helpul and natural vocabulary.Write using descriptive, helpul and natural vocabulary. Mechanics.

Mechanics. Avoid errors in grammar, punctuation and spelling.Avoid errors in grammar, punctuation and spelling. Language and Sentences.

Language and Sentences. Don’t distract the reader with awkward phrases, run-ons or rag-Don’t distract the reader with awkward phrases, run-ons or rag-ment sentences.

ment sentences.

Yacht

Organization and Flo.

Organization and Flo. "Yacht" emphasizes the importance o organization and the logical"Yacht" emphasizes the importance o organization and the logical fow o ideas.

fow o ideas.

Purposeul writing.

Purposeul writing. A well-organized essay sails rom point A to B to C. At the start o the trip,A well-organized essay sails rom point A to B to C. At the start o the trip, the captain alerts the travelers where they will be going and why.

the captain alerts the travelers where they will be going and why. Clear Guidance and Transitions.

Clear Guidance and Transitions. During the trip, she explains the purpose o each stop andDuring the trip, she explains the purpose o each stop and connects it back to the overall purpose. There are smooth transitions between each point. Once connects it back to the overall purpose. There are smooth transitions between each point. Once they arrive she sums up the entire voyage.

they arrive she sums up the entire voyage. Variety.

Variety. An interesting trip on a yacht includes a variety o ocean conditions and waves (sen-An interesting trip on a yacht includes a variety o ocean conditions and waves (sen-tence variety) and also smoothly slices through an opposing wave at least once (addressing an tence variety) and also smoothly slices through an opposing wave at least once (addressing an objection to your position).

objection to your position). Upside Don Pyramid.

Upside Don Pyramid. The shape o the letter “Y” in Yacht indicates the structure each para- The shape o the letter “Y” in Yacht indicates the structure each para-“Teddy Roosevelt’s lie demonstrates

“Teddy Roosevelt’s lie demonstrates the advantages o beingthe advantages o being

wealthy

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Key Facts to Know About the SAT Essay

•• You have 25 minutes to complete the essay section o the SAT.You have 25 minutes to complete the essay section o the SAT.

•• During that time, you must During that time, you must read the assignment, brainstorm, briefy outline, write the essayread the assignment, brainstorm, briefy outline, write the essay and then prooread it.

and then prooread it.

•• You must use a pencil, not a pen.You must use a pencil, not a pen.

•• The essay is graded by high school and college teachers. The essay is graded by high school and college teachers.

•• Two graders read each essay independently and provide a score between 1 and 6. The Two graders read each essay independently and provide a score between 1 and 6. The two scores are totaled or a nal score between 2 and 12. However, i the two initial scores two scores are totaled or a nal score between 2 and 12. However, i the two initial scores diverge by more than one point, a third grader will evaluate the essay.

diverge by more than one point, a third grader will evaluate the essay.

•• Graders read through the essay rom start to nish beore they determine a score.Graders read through the essay rom start to nish beore they determine a score.

•• Each essay is scored “holistically,” which means it is assessed as a whole, rather than byEach essay is scored “holistically,” which means it is assessed as a whole, rather than by adding up several sub-scores. This allows graders to score the essays quickly.

adding up several sub-scores. This allows graders to score the essays quickly.

•• You will receive a zero on your essay i you write on a diYou will receive a zero on your essay i you write on a dierent topic than what is assigned.erent topic than what is assigned. Be careul to answer the question that you are asked!

Be careul to answer the question that you are asked!

•• The test booklet provides 46 lines to write on, which is enough to write a good essay be- The test booklet provides 46 lines to write on, which is enough to write a good essay be-tween roughly 300-500 words or about two handwritten pages.

tween roughly 300-500 words or about two handwritten pages.

•• Be sure not to waste your limited writing space by skipping every other line or using exBe sure not to waste your limited writing space by skipping every other line or using ex tra- tra-large letters.

large letters.

•• You will be given a “prompt” to read and consider—which is a quotation or deep thoughtYou will be given a “prompt” to read and consider—which is a quotation or deep thought o a ew sentences—ollowed by the actual question you need to answer. This question is o a ew sentences—ollowed by the actual question you need to answer. This question is called the “assignment.

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Chapter 4.

tHE tHREE-lEGGEd Stool and

dEtailS FoR EacH R.E.a.d.y. ElEmEnt

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The Three-Legged St

The Three-Legged Stool: R.E.

ool: R.E.A.

A.

The heart o the R.E.A.D.Y. approach is its rst three elements: Reasons, Examples and Answer. The heart o the R.E.A.D.Y. approach is its rst three elements: Reasons, Examples and Answer. Indeed, the single most eective way or you to improve your score on the SAT essay—and Indeed, the single most eective way or you to improve your score on the SAT essay—and your persuasive writing in general—is to include at least two o these three key elements in your persuasive writing in general—is to include at least two o these three key elements in every paragraph o your writing. Keep in mind that you can “include” an element by briefy every paragraph o your writing. Keep in mind that you can “include” an element by briefy reerencing it in a particular paragraph. Also, each time you reerence an element, it should reerencing it in a particular paragraph. Also, each time you reerence an element, it should sound varied and natural and you can use dierent words than in other paragraphs.

sound varied and natural and you can use dierent words than in other paragraphs.

Overall, your writing should be suciently structured to unleash the ull power o your logical Overall, your writing should be suciently structured to unleash the ull power o your logical reasoning. But your language also should be resh and varied so that you don’t sound like a reasoning. But your language also should be resh and varied so that you don’t sound like a robot! Be aware o this caveat but continue to recognize tha

robot! Be aware o this caveat but continue to recognize that each o the three R.E.t each o the three R.E.A. elementsA. elements is essential and should be viewed as the three legs o a stool. I one o the legs is missing, the is essential and should be viewed as the three legs o a stool. I one o the legs is missing, the essay stool will all over and will ail to support the scrutiny o your grader. For example, many essay stool will all over and will ail to support the scrutiny o your grader. For example, many students provide an Answer to a question and set out Examples that oer support. However, students provide an Answer to a question and set out Examples that oer support. However, quite oten they don’t include Reasons or their responses, and so these essays ail to prove quite oten they don’t include Reasons or their responses, and so these essays ail to prove their main point and do not score high.

their main point and do not score high.

The Three-Legged Stool and Your Thesis Statement

The Three-Legged Stool and Your Thesis Statement. Not only are the three R.E.A. ele-. Not only are the three R.E.A. ele-ments the essential legs o your essay stool, they also should play the starring role in the most ments the essential legs o your essay stool, they also should play the starring role in the most important sentence o your essay—your thesis statement. The thesis has a daunting task: to important sentence o your essay—your thesis statement. The thesis has a daunting task: to summarize your entire essay in one brilliantly crated

summarize your entire essay in one brilliantly crated sentencsentence. Thereore it needs e. Thereore it needs to be packedto be packed with important content but it also cannot be too long. You certainly don’t want the sentence with important content but it also cannot be too long. You certainly don’t want the sentence that graders will scrutinize the most to be an awkward, unwieldy run-on! The good news is that graders will scrutinize the most to be an awkward, unwieldy run-on! The good news is that Essay Ready’s approach is simple, powerul

that Essay Ready’s approach is simple, powerul and has consistently led the way to high and has consistently led the way to high scoresscores or our students. Your aithul travel companions on this path to success are the three R.E.A. or our students. Your aithul travel companions on this path to success are the three R.E.A. elements. In the section below, ocused on Reasons, we’ll show you precisely how to write a elements. In the section below, ocused on Reasons, we’ll show you precisely how to write a antastic thesis statement.

antastic thesis statement.

Summing Up: The R.E.A. Elements

Summing Up: The R.E.A. Elements. Overall, remember that the rst three elements—. Overall, remember that the rst three elements— R, E, A—are critically important and at least two o them should be mentioned in an elegant, R, E, A—are critically important and at least two o them should be mentioned in an elegant, varied way in every single paragraph o your SAT essay. You should construct an excellent, varied way in every single paragraph o your SAT essay. You should construct an excellent, su-percharged thesis statement by always including both the A. and R. elements and potentially percharged thesis statement by always including both the A. and R. elements and potentially the E. element as well. Now, let’s take a close look at what may be the most important o the the E. element as well. Now, let’s take a close look at what may be the most important o the three key elements: Reasons.

three key elements: Reasons.

R easons

Persuade ith Reasons.

Persuade ith Reasons. The only way to score high on the SAT essay is to clearly answer theThe only way to score high on the SAT essay is to clearly answer the question in a

question in a persuasive mannerpersuasive manner. The . The most eective method most eective method to persuade others—when eitherto persuade others—when either writing or speaking—is to provide compelling reasons or your position. When students learn writing or speaking—is to provide compelling reasons or your position. When students learn