<p>After reading all the test prep books and instructions, I would like to have a concrete, working format for the SAT essay. None of the books or online guides actually address this part. Actually, I understand how to format the body paragraphs and conclusion, but the intro is what seems to be varied. Some people just have a thesis and a general outline for a total of two sentences, while other people do the traditional, longer, taught-in-school method, where they have a roadmap that outlines the essay. I'm interested to know what works, and if the latter option is just being frivolous. Basically, my fundamental question is...can i still get a 10, 11, or 12 with just a two sentence intro?!</p>
<p>Can i still get a 10, 11, or 12 with just a two sentence intro?</p>
<p>There are always exceptions – such as a two sentence brilliant introduction. Generally though the introduction serves to introduce the reader to your main point, providing a sense of why it’s an important point, and then the introduction provides a lead into the body of the essay. It won’t do for a high scoring essay to simply state the thesis (as provided by the prompt). There needs to be substantial content in the introduction that goes beyond the thesis statement.</p>
<p>Focus not on length or format but on content and depth. If you get that right the format will more or less follow.</p>
<p>Introduction: Conventional ideas toward the given prompt, why it is right/wrong and what examples you will provide to prove it, and finally, your thesis statement.</p>
<p>Body: Either two or three paragraphs. Elaborate on your examples, and choose them wisely. Focus on getting your point across in these paragraphs. Basically, transition into the example, give a succinct summation of it, and finally, state how it supports your statement at the end of the paragraph.</p>
<p>Conclusion: Summing up everything you previously stated, restating your thesis but more elaborately.</p>
<p>That’s the basic template I use whenever I write an essay.</p>
<p>This thread may prove useful to you.</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/sat-preparation/645763-how-write-12-essay-just-10-days.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/sat-preparation/645763-how-write-12-essay-just-10-days.html</a></p>
<p>Thanks! I actually looked at the link above and it helped a lot!</p>