"Creativity is the mother of all prompts."
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How to Write a Killer SAT Essay
in 25 Minutes or Less! by Tom Clements Hit 'Em Up publishing
book review by Peter M. Fitzpatrick
How do you catch the eye of two scorers who spend less than three minutes to give a score from 1 to 6? This book reveals several strategies for facing the two blank-page essay test in the SAT. There is only 25 minutes, so preparation is helpful. The beginning discusses elements common to all essays, like the introductory paragraph, the body, and the conclusion. Topic sentences, transitions, the use of subordination and a good vocabulary are also mentioned. Finally, the importance of using concrete examples from history, literature, or technology to support your argument is stressed. But the SAT essay has its quirks. A quote from a famous figure is given. Then the "prompt" or rather open-ended assignment question is given. The author recommends choosing one side of the question to argue, then using a set of what he calls "pre-fab" examples from literature, technology, and other subjects that you have already practiced writing about to argue your point.
The SAT does not grade on factual accuracy. It is supposed to gauge the student's ability to reason using language. Clements treats it like a machine and claims that 30% of his students have earned the highest score. He provides innumerable examples of sample essays and stresses creativity. False attributions, as in making up words that a famous or imaginary person said in defense of your thesis, is evidently acceptable. You can put words in Shakespeare's mouth, and still score perfectly. His style is accessible and succinct. Very informative.