<p>So this is my first time taking the ACT, and I've been browsing a lot of sources for advice -- the main thing I've picked up on is the use of examples and a counterargument.</p>
<p>For the examples, is it similar to the SAT essay in which each example serves to exemplify your thesis (but have the same idea)? Or does each example have to support your thesis in different ideas (for example, X is needed because it does Y. Next paragraph -- X is also needed because it can help Z.)</p>
<p>for more clarification, the sample ACT essays on the official site use no outside examples, but instead focus on logical progression and each paragraph serves to argue a different reason for the thesis. </p>
<p>As for the counterargument-- is it absolutely necessary? I've seen CC posts saying so, but guides on shmoop/sparknotes/ACT guidelines make no reference to one. </p>
<p>Transitioning from the SAT essay viewpoint to the ACT is disorientating to say the least, and I would appreciate any and all help! Thank you.</p>
<p>Actually, my main question is – are literary/historical/outside concrete examples necessary for the ACT as they are for the SAT? Is it not enough to just reason and argue (for example, uniforms should be required because they prevent gang violence and class discrimination --then going on to explain HOW they do that)</p>
<p>If they ARE required, how could you apply them? ACT prompts are a lot more narrowed, and I can’t fathom how I can incorporate examples from literature or business/politics, etc, to a prompt that asks me if students should maintain a C average to get a driver’s license. </p>
<p>i have the same question</p>
<p>Outside information is not required, but it is never a bad idea to include historical or modern examples, or personal anecdotes to break up the monotony of using pure logic to answer every essay question. You can get a good score without any outside information , but if you can logically fit some in, it certainly won’t hurt.</p>
<p>Now, you will need to be creative in how you insert outside information. Here’s how I’d fit some outside info into the essay question you have as an example:</p>
<p>Let’s say one of your reasons for why you shouldn’t require a C average is because grades aren’t the only measure of ability. You can use the example of Lebron James, for example, who dropped out of high school but is clearly talented in other ways, explaining that good students aren’t necessarily the only good drivers. </p>
<p>If you’re going to use outside info, you have to be creative. But don’t stress if you can’t think of any to include— you can still do just fine without it.</p>