<p>So, for SAT essays there is usually a small excerpt before the actual essay question. But, do I have to answer the question according to the perspective of the excerpt or can I ignore the excerpt entirely and interpret the question as a standalone one?</p>
<p>it gives u 2 perspectives. so you would have ot pick one anyway. the short answer is yes, u can ignore.</p>
<p>Ignoring it doesn’t make a difference. However, you could directly quote that passage as an intro sentence, and then give your opinion on it.</p>
<p>It’s definitely an option to ignore it, especially if you find it at all confusing. And I STRONGLY discourage you from doing any quoting of it in your essay. It’s boring, wastes space and time, and the readers are not going to start out with a good impression if that’s the first thing you write! They want to hear what you have to say, not what you’ve just regurgitated from the prompt.</p>
<p>Your job is to answer the prompt, not the quote, but I’d still read the quote because it will most likely offer you some ideas. Definitely don’t quote it in your essay.</p>
<p>The quote has never helped me.</p>
<p>bottom line: if you are having any trouble with the prompt, read the preceding quote for some ideas.</p>