How much does SAT writing matter?

Test Preparation
1

<p>So, if I'm trying for Princeton and Columbia reach, and I have an 800M 790CR 630W should I retake the SAT this November to try to get writing up? My CR and M are good, but I've read that "one chink in the armor" will really hurt my chances. I'm trying to decide if I should retake for writing or do SAT II tests (I have an 800 physics and 780 Math 1, I was going to retake math 1, take math 2, and some 3rd one).
What should I do?
(Also note I have a 34 ACT composite with a 9 essay- my "English" score was a 33 without writing, 31 with, and the remaining scores were all 34s, so similar situation except not quite as bad, but 790 800 for SAT would be impressive if my writing wasn't so dismal.) I'm also worried that with my terrible writing score they might think someone else wrote my essays, because they're pretty good. I don't know, what do you all suggest?</p>

<p>(I wasn't sure if it would be more appropriate to post this here or in chances, if any mods seee this, feel free to delete one if one is misplaced, or leave them, that's fine too.)</p>

2

<p>That might be worth actually emailing an admissions officer about. Some places like Georgetown and even University of Chicago don’t consider it at all, I’m guessing because they think it’s a worthless indicator. So yeah, I’d ask personally.</p>