Questions about sat essays

<p>I've been having a bit of a problem when writing essays. I take too much time trying to think of the right examples to make. Like is it advisable to use very common people or instances as examples? And if you use someone as an example that isn't necessarily known by everyone would you be marked down cuz the graders dont know who you're talking about?
And can i use examples from books, novels and films that do not have to do with literature or history like say 'a nicholas sparks novel' or even sophie kinsella' or is it better to just fabricate the story into a personal experience instead?<br>
Lastly, if I use a quote, do i have to always make a reference as to where i got it from? and is it advisable to use very cliche sayings like 'a stitch in time saves nine' or 'make hay while the sun shines' ?? </p>

<p>I don't know if I'm making much sense here but pls try and answer anyway. Thank you :)</p>

<p>First off its my opinion, although not in the CB guidelines, that what you want to do is project the image of an educated high school junior or senior. This isnt done by tossing in a lot of vocabulary, but at least some of your examples should reflect you have been awake during highschool. If your examples are not very pithy observations about Ke$ha songs and pro wrestling that doesnt give the greatest impression. </p>

<p>I would have a preference for examples from literature, history and science, although in all honestly in the recent prompts it is getting harder and hard to use literature. I dont think there is a problem in citing any book or movie, even if modern, as long as it isnt patently unserious. Using “Not Another Teen Movie” already has you on the back foot. My son used the movie “Double Indemnity” as an example and got a 12. A friend of his used “Goodfellas”. </p>

<p>Graders arent supposed to assessing the accuracy of your information. And they arent going to research what you say. However they are mostly English teachers, and not stupid, so if you are getting major details wrong in a well known work that is going to form an impression. </p>

<p>Since CB says you can use personal experience, so you can make up stuff to use as an example. There are a couple of authors who recommend it. I personally think its lazy (I am not going to get study and organized because I can always make things up) and is unlikely to help much if you didnt know how to use your material to prove your thesis in the first place. Anything you make up ought to be specific and tailored to buttressing the part of your response your other two examples didnt address.</p>

<p>Here is what it boils down to- if you havent paid any attention in high school you arent likely to be able to fool anyone with minimal practice. Certainly not using template examples shoehorned in. </p>

<p>On the other hand, you probably have done of dozens of literary works during your schooling. You know about dozens of scientists and inventors. You know about a number of historical figures. Organize what you already know. See how they can be used to fit the prompts. Waiting until you open the SAT booklet is not the right time to ponder what you know about decision making or following a crowd. </p>

<p>BTW- this is my opinion on the preferred type of source material. CB doest say this and they like to give examples showing you can use personal information. They also like to say that length doesnt mater and test prep doesnt change your grade.</p>

<p>Like is it advisable to use very common people or instances as examples? If you’re talking about well-known people or events, there’s nothing wrong with doing this.</p>

<p>And if you use someone as an example that isn’t necessarily known by everyone would you be marked down cuz the graders dont know who you’re talking about? You won’t be marked down IF what you’re saying pertains to the prompt.</p>

<p>And can i use examples from books, novels and films that do not have to do with literature or history like say ‘a nicholas sparks novel’ or even sophie kinsella’ Use the examples that best fit your argument. Generally, strong arguments require examples that are a little more sophisticated than those that come from “page turner” books or lamestream movies.</p>

<p>or is it better to just fabricate the story into a personal experience instead? That’s lame and unnecessary.</p>

<p>Lastly, if I use a quote, do i have to always make a reference as to where i got it from? No, format issues such as this have no bearing on your score.</p>

<p>is it advisable to use very cliche sayings like ‘a stitch in time saves nine’ or ‘make hay while the sun shines’ ?? Bright, insightful writers don’t need to use clich</p>

<p>check out the forum I wrote :slight_smile: <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/sat-preparation/1525053-defeating-sat-essay-2-days.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/sat-preparation/1525053-defeating-sat-essay-2-days.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;