ACT Writing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: On the ACT Writing test, how many perspectives on the issue are you given in the prompt?
- Two
- Three (Correct answer)
- Four
- One
Correct answer: Three
The ACT Writing prompt presents three distinct perspectives on a debatable issue.
Question 2: How long do you have to complete the ACT Writing essay?
- 30 minutes
- 40 minutes (Correct answer)
- 50 minutes
- 60 minutes
Correct answer: 40 minutes
The optional ACT Writing test gives you 40 minutes to plan and write your essay.
Question 3: What score range is used for each of the four ACT Writing domains?
- 1 to 6 (Correct answer)
- 1 to 12
- 1 to 36
- 0 to 8
Correct answer: 1 to 6
Two readers each score the essay from 1 to 6 in four domains, producing a combined scale.
Question 4: Which of the following is one of the four scoring domains for the ACT essay?
- Vocabulary Range
- Ideas and Analysis (Correct answer)
- Spelling Accuracy
- Handwriting
Correct answer: Ideas and Analysis
Ideas and Analysis is one of the four domains, alongside Development, Organization, and Language Use.
Question 5: What should your essay do with the three given perspectives?
- Ignore them entirely
- Analyze and evaluate them in relation to your own (Correct answer)
- Copy them word for word
- Pick the longest one
Correct answer: Analyze and evaluate them in relation to your own
A strong essay analyzes the perspectives and relates them to your own argument.
Question 6: Is the ACT Writing test required for all test takers?
- Yes, always
- No, it is optional (Correct answer)
- Only for juniors
- Only on retakes
Correct answer: No, it is optional
The ACT Writing test is optional, though some colleges require it.
Question 7: Where should your essay's central thesis or claim ideally appear?
- Only in the conclusion
- Clearly stated, often early in the essay (Correct answer)
- Hidden in the middle
- It is not needed
Correct answer: Clearly stated, often early in the essay
A clear thesis, typically introduced early, helps organize and focus the essay.
On the ACT Writing test, how many perspectives on the issue are you given in the prompt?