Set up the debate in your introduction. State the two sides of the argument and let the reader know where you stand.
Avoid the passive voice throughout your essay. You active verb (see verb sheet for ideas). Do not use the verb tobe (is, was, will be, are, am, etc…).
Do not use the first person. Use third person throughout (their, they, them, he, she, etc…)
Pick singular or plural and stick with it throughout the essay. The ACT deducts major points for the following errors: While a person may support dress codes, they do not realize how much these rules limit individuality. Person is singular and they is plural.
Use different types of sentence constructions. Most sentences should follow the standard subject-verb format. Nevertheless, it will impress your reader if you can include a while statement or even a sentence that uses a semicolon. Do not hesitate to pose a question in your essay. This addition can make your personal voice come through.
Stay in present tense throughout your essay (even if it sounds awkward to you at first).
Watch the clock. Brainstorm for 3 minutes, write for about 20, and edit for 5. Make sure to include a conclusion (3 or more sentences).
Use different categories of examples. Not all examples should be about high school students. Try to incorporate examples from current events, history, the economy, and your community. The easiest historical examples for the ACT essays usually include stories of past presidents, wars, and major events (The Great Depression, September 11, 2001, etc…). If possible, also cite an example from a literary source.
Avoid sentence constructions with “ing” words. Excessive use of “ing” words makes most essays sound too colloquial in nature.
Stay away from contractions and other abbreviations.
Use interesting transitions (In addition, additionally, resultantly, moreover, furthermore, however, therefore, as a result, contrastingly, in comparison to, comparatively, likewise, similarly, nevertheless, for example, while, given, granted that, since, etc…).
Never drop “this” or “it” without being completely clear about your point. No: This is due to the inability of most students to study after school. Yes: This trend is due to the inability of most students to study after school. Never use “this” without saying “this WHAT.” The same goes for that!