Structure and strategy tips for the unscored ISEE and SSAT essay sections. Front: the essay component or tip category. Back: a concise strategy explanation.
29 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- How many paragraphs should a basic ISEE/SSAT essay contain?
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Three to five paragraphs: introduction, two to three body paragraphs, and conclusion.- What is the ideal time to spend planning before writing your essay?
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Three to five minutes. Jot down your thesis and main ideas before drafting.- What should your introduction paragraph accomplish?
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Grab attention, introduce the topic, and state your thesis or main point.- What makes a strong thesis statement?
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A clear, one-sentence declaration of your main argument that answers the prompt directly.- What is the purpose of a body paragraph?
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Support your thesis with a single main idea, concrete examples, and clear explanation.- How should you open each body paragraph?
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With a topic sentence that states the paragraph's main point and links to your thesis.- What types of evidence work best in essays?
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Specific examples, personal anecdotes, details from literature, or logical reasoning.- Why should you avoid generic or vague examples?
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Specific details convince readers and show deep understanding of the topic.- What should your conclusion paragraph do?
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Restate your thesis in new words, summarize main ideas, and end with a final thought.- Should you introduce a brand-new idea in your conclusion?
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No. Wrap up your existing argument without opening a new line of reasoning.- What is a hook in an essay opening?
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An attention-grabbing opening sentence, question, or statement that engages the reader.- What makes a weak opening for an essay?
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Broad statements like 'Throughout history...' or 'Everyone has opinions...' without specificity.- How do you connect one paragraph to the next?
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Use transition words, link the new idea to your thesis, or reference the previous point.- Name three effective transition words for body paragraphs.
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Furthermore, moreover, additionally, also, for example, in fact, or similarly.- What is the most important rule for essay spelling and grammar?
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Proofread for common mistakes, keep sentences clear and simple, avoid run-on sentences.
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