Should I take optional ACT Writing Test?

Test Preparation ACT Preparation
1

<p>I am planning to take the ACT for the first time and am really contemplating whether or not I should take the writing test as well. When I took the SAT, I got a total score of 6 on my essay which is HORRIBLE and I literally have no idea why I scored so low when I am generally a good writer (got much better essay scores in my AP Lang class). My essay wasn't amazing, but I definitely don't think it was worth only a combined score of 6 either.</p>

<p>I took an ACT practice test and got a 33 on the English section, but with studying I think I can get even higher on the actual test. However, if I take the writing test too I don't want it to bring my overall English score lower if I don't score well on the essay. So is it really worth taking the writing test? Do colleges heavily take that into account? My intended major is also communications/media/journalism so I feel like not taking the writing test would just look bad. </p>

<p>Will appreciate any and all feedback!</p>

2

<p>Ok so I guess taking the writing test doesn’t affect the English MC score nor does it affect the composite score? Sorry I’m new to the ACT so I’m still getting familiar with the scoring guidelines. So if the writing score is an additional score and not added into the composite score, is it possible to not send that seperate score to colleges if it happens to be low? Or will it get sent automatically along with my composite score?</p>

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<p>It will be sent if you take it. However it will not factor into your composite score; a separate, non-related English+Essay score is calculated.</p>

<p>My suggestion to you is to write a 30-minute ACT essay and post it on this forum for grading. Somebody kind soul will grade and comment, which will give you a better idea of if you should pursue Writing or not.</p>

4

<p>Most schools that take act want it with writing… check colleges you’re considering</p>