<p>Support your position with reasoning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.</p>
<p>Can I use "observations" from the NBA? I've been an avid basetkball fan for many years, and I find that all of the SAT prompts I've come across could be answered with examples from the colorful history of the NBA.</p>
<p>Definitely. That would be part of your observations and experience, and since you're so enthusiastic and experienced with basketball, it will show in your writing. Also, since you have observed many things about basketball, you will more likely find something that could make an argument for the essay topic.</p>
<p>While using literary examples gives you a plus, you should always make sure you can make a very logical argument (that anyone giving it a brief skim could understand, because they are speed grading) and that the example fits well. Try to have one literary or historical example. The second one can be less formal, like basketball. </p>
<p>If you're aiming for a 12 though, I'm not quite so sure. This is good for a 11 though!</p>