<p>As I was preparing for the essay portion of the SAT, within 25 min, devising an essay with an introduction, conclusion, and 2 good body paragraphs seemed ideal to me. However, as I read through these boards, I saw that most people suggested a three paragraph body format. So the question is: in order to obtain the highest score, will having only 2 (albeit well-written) paragraphs as body cause the test graders (who only briefly skim the essay) to automatically give it a lower score because it doesn't follow the "standard"?</p>
<p>nope. "3 paragraphs" is not part of the rubric, if that's what you mean. 3 is better thought as a guideline rather than a standard. Psychologically and structurally 3 happens to be a 'magic number' of sorts with argumentative essays but it's hardly a hard and fast rule. 2 well-written paragraphs will beat out 3 unconvincing ones, of course : ). good luck.</p>
<p>I got an 11 with 2 examples. One was about the Scientific Revolution, and the other...was really lame--how computer will take over teh world (lol). </p>
<p>I just made a crazy intro and very good first paragraph--with a strong conclusion. The third paragraph (the second body) was really really really crappy-- I finished that paragraph in less than two minutes.</p>
<p>I digressed a bit, but I hope this tip helped a bit!</p>
<p>I suggest reading the thread with a collection of essays of different scores. There is no standard format. One guy told a story about his football team and got a 12. They look at how well you write, and how logically you think. If eloquently render logical, iron-clad support behind your position, you will be fine, no matter how many paragraphs there are.</p>