SAT Essay: How important is using "good" vocabulary?

<p>I'm taking the SAT next Saturday, so I'm doing some last minute prep... Then I come across a couple posts/articles that stress the use of vocab in the essay section. Even though I have memorized a good amount of vocab, I've never tried to use them in essays because I feel like it makes me sound really pompous (see what I mean?). Is it possible to get a 12 without using any SAT vocab? Would I have a way better chance if I do?</p>

<p>It’s helpful if you use the words properly. Don’t worry about sounding pompous. However, if you use the words improperly it could be counterproductive, so make sure you really know the word if you decide to use it.</p>

<p>Here are vocabulary that you can use in most essays:</p>

<p>Though he was AMBIVILANT about the issue,he remained strong.</p>

<p>Despite his Skepticism or Cynicism(choose one) for his father’s decisions, he still sided with him.</p>

<p>Rather than listening to the DISPARAGING( comments that general received,he dealt/cope with problems with Equanmity(calmness).</p>

<p>Trying not to Exacerbate(worsen) the issue further more, he asked for his father’s tip.</p>

<p>Never Trivilize the importance of Unity!</p>

<p>One of the most Intergal(essential) teachings of Sarah Jane is unity.</p>

<p>I tend to use beneficial/detrimental beside my thesis too.</p>

<p>Am I using them correctly?</p>

<p>I feel that most of them are awkward.</p>

<p>Hope this helps.</p>

<p>EDIT: You can also use this at the end of one of the three examples.</p>

<p>Hence, Spiderman’s actions Epitomizes the importance of conscience in one’s life.
Hence, X epitomizes the importance of Y.</p>