SAT essay questions?

Question

I was taught to write 5 paragraph essays, but why are some SAT essays only four paragraphs? What should they be, 4 or 5? Do we always have to have facts or statistics in our body paragraphs? Is a 4-5 sentence intro paragraph long enough?

Answer 1

you definitely don't need 5 paragraphs or even 4

maybe even just three would be fine, although i recommend 4

i wrote 4 pargagraphs and got 9

Answer 2

You only have 25 minutes to brainstorm and write the essay, so a 4 paragraph essay is sufficient; however, you can write a 5 paragraph essay if you have time...just make sure to still have a competent conclusion.

If you are writing a paragraph relating to a historical theme, having accurate facts and statistics will really help you. That will probably be the difference between a 10 and an 11/12 on the essay portion.

And yes, a 4-5 sentence intro paragraph is long enough. Focus more on your body paragraphs.

Answer 3

well, 5 para essays would be ideal. but 4 is fine for the SAT, since it shows an understanding of organization (intro/concl and not one big blob as the essay) and you have limited time= only 25 minutes!! so write write write!

put as much as you can and analyze the best you can for the essay. facts/statistics are not required. :)