So in March 2016, I scored an 8|7|8 (23/24) on the Essay but a mediocre score for the multiple choice sections of the test. I am taking the SAT a second time because of this mediocre score, so I was wondering if I need to take the Essay this time around (as the essay is scored separately)? I would rather not risk getting lower than 23 the second time I take the test, but does it even matter if I score lower?