<p>the structure that i’ve learned in english classes and prep classes is:
- an intro with a good hook, like a few rhetorical questions, a quote if you know one, or an interesting historical example. then, move into the essay topic by starting with a general idea and narrowing down into your thesis.<br>
- two body paragraphs is a good rule of thumb because if you go for 3, you may run out of time or skimp on the quality of writing for each of the paragraphs. i like to use literature examples (the great gatsby, the catcher in the rye, or huck finn usually apply well to a variety of essay topics), but historical examples or personal examples are also acceptable. just watch out with personal examples, though, that you still use mature/sophisticated language.
- a conclusion that:
a. restates your thesis statement
b. goes out to a more general idea on the topic to a universal (how will this affect our society sort of thing) idea</p>
<p>although collegeboard doesn’t admit it, length and good handwriting might score you a few extra points. graders only have 2 minutes to grade so also keep in mind appearance.
goodluck!</p>