<p>Personally, I believe my writing style is the only component keeping me in the 7 to 8 range. However, I feel I extremely lack the ability to analyze a prompt and create a superb argument to achieve a 9. Tips are appreciated. Thanks.</p>
<p>Just you know, you don’t have to get a 9 on all three essays to get a 5. So don’t pressure yourself too much. What I did was I studied the released exams and the student responses, and I analyzed the student samples’ styles. I differentiated how each of the students got 9, 7, 5 etc.</p>
<p>“9” essays are really truly excellent. 7-8 essay are extremely competent and proves you well accomplished.</p>
<p>Very basically, </p>
<p>Strong idea + simple syntax/diction = 5-6</p>
<p>Simple ideas + strong syntax/diction= 5-6</p>
<p>Very strong idea + strong syntax/diction = 7-8</p>
<p>Strong idea + very strong/diction/style = 7-8</p>
<p>perfectly structured ideas + perfect style = 9</p>
<p>Read those 9 essays. They seem also edited. </p>
<p>If you consistently score 7-8 you have the ability to score a 9. Familiarity with the topic would help.</p>
<p>Wow I guess I am just a little too harsh on myself. Thanks for the breakdowns.</p>