The writing sample is the first section of the Upper Level SSAT, and it's one that students often underestimate — or overstress about. Here's what you need to know.
What Is the Writing Sample?
Students have 25 minutes to write an essay and can choose between two prompts: one personal and one general. The writing sample is not scored, but a copy is sent to every school that receives your student's score report — so while it won't affect their scaled score, it absolutely matters.
The essay serves two purposes: it shows admissions officers how well your student can write, and it gives them another window into who your student is as a person. That second part is worth keeping in mind. If the prompt asks your student to write about someone they admire, they should absolutely write about that person — but the best essays also turn the lens back on the writer. How has this person shaped them? What has your student taken away from that relationship or example? Admissions officers are reading to learn about your student, so make sure your student is present on the page.
Tips for the Writing Sample
Stick to the prompt. This sounds obvious, but it's easy to go off track when you're nervous and writing quickly. Your student should be able to state their main point clearly in the opening paragraph and make sure every example they use supports that point.
Manage your time. 25 minutes goes by faster than you may think. Encourage your student to spend the first few minutes organizing their thoughts before they start writing and to save a few minutes at the end to proofread and make any revisions.
Structure the essay. There are no strict rules for how to structure your essay, but a clear introduction, one to three body paragraphs, and a conclusion is a solid approach. Admissions officers are reading dozens of essays — a well-organized one is much easier to follow.
Write neatly. If your student is taking the paper version of the SSAT, they'll be writing by hand. Neatness isn't graded, but if an admissions officer can't easily read the essay, that's a problem. Encourage your student to slow down slightly and write as clearly as possible.
Practice Prompts
The best way to prepare for the writing sample is to practice under real conditions — somewhere quiet, with a 25-minute timer running. If your student is taking the paper version of the test, have them write by hand on two sheets of lined paper (that's the maximum length allowed). Once they're done, have a trusted adult read it over and offer feedback.
Here are four prompts to get started — two personal and two general:
Personal Prompts:
- If you could try any job for one year, what would you choose and what do you think you would learn?
- What motivates you more: solving problems, helping people, creating things, or leading others?
General Prompts:
- Do you believe grades are an accurate way to measure intelligence and understanding? If so, explain why. If not, what are some alternative ways to measure intelligence and understanding?
- Do you believe community service should be a requirement to graduate high school, and why?