tsi essay samples

TSI Essay Guide

One challenging component of the TSI test is the essay question. You will be asked to write a persuasive essay on a controversial issue or an issue of current interest. The TSI essay will be evaluated on your organization, focus, development and support, sentence structure, and mechanical conventions. Fortunately, your essay is only required to be 300-600 words in length. A simple 5 paragraph essay will be more than sufficient. Scores on the essay section range from 1 to 8, with 8 being the highest.

An essay that is too short to be evaluated, written on a topic other than the one presented, or written in a language other than English, will be given a score of zero. The biggest differences between the low-scoring and high-scoring essays is LENGTH and CLARITY. Aim to achieve multiple paragraphs with good organization, and this essay should be fairly easy!

TSI Essay Tips and Strategies

• Understand that the TSI Essay will NOT require any outside knowledge. You are not expected to have any specific technical know-how or understanding of specific books or authors. The essay will be based off a provided prompt meant to spark your creativity. Everything you need to answer the question will be part of the prompt!
• Select one side only. Unlike real life where most of our opinions are a mix of gray, the TSI essay requires you to take a strong stand on one side and one side ONLY of the issue. You won’t be able to adequately argue a middle-of-the-road approach, and you risk appearing indecisive and muddling your essay.
• Remember that you will not be scored on your opinion. Don’t worry if you feel you are choosing a less commonly held position on the topic. The reader will NOT give you a lower score based on personal bias.
• Don’t change your position mid-essay. Even if you feel you’re running out of steam and you’re regretting your position on the topic, stay strong and finish the essay anyway. Don’t waffle, and don’t try to take a “middle of the road” approach. You don’t have time to go back and re-write the whole thing.
• No example is “too” specific. As long as you can argue logically that it supports your thesis, no example is “too” specific. Most essays are way too general. Aim to make the reader think, “wow, what extreme detail!” as they read. If you are using an example from personal experience, using some names, dates, places, and other concrete details can go a long way. Replace abstracts with absolutes.
• Incorporate the opposing side. A great way to strengthen your own argument is to acknowledge that there is in fact complexity to the issue. However, if you bring up and describe the opposing side, make sure to criticize it effectively and reiterate that your side is the only one that is valid. This is a great tool to use in your conclusion, although many students include it in an additional body paragraph.
• Keep the introduction and conclusion brief . Don’t take forever to get to the topic. The function of an introductory paragraph is to introduce the reader to the topic in the prompt, and then to clearly and forcefully state your position on it. More than 3-4 sentences is too long. In the conclusion, 1-2 sentences is great to reiterate your position and leave the essay with a closing idea. Save your writing-time for your body paragraphs!
• Use Transition Words . Scroll down to the bottom of this article to see a good list of common transition words. Be sure to use these words as you move between paragraphs! Always make sure the reader will understand why you are moving from one paragraph to the next paragraph!

TSI Essay Template

This is a sample outline for the TSI Essay. Notice we are aiming for 5 paragraphs total. You may opt for a shorter 4 paragraph version if 5 paragraphs are too many for you to write, but aim for 5 paragraphs if you can. If you have trouble completing 5 paragraphs, see if you can streamline your body paragraphs. They can often be bloated with unnecessary wordiness. Keep the introduction and the conclusion short and sweet.

Paragraph 1 — Introduction (3–4 sentences)

You will want to begin your essay with one of the following: a generalization about the topic, a quotation, a short anecdote to set-up the correctness of your position, a historical framework, or a piece of news illustrating the contemporariness of the issue. Admit the complexity of the issue.

You have two goals in the beginning part of the essay: to introduce the topic, and to express your opinion on it. Be sure to place your thesis as the final sentence in your introduction.

Paragraph 2 — First Example (4–6 sentences)

Start with your most-powerful or relevant example. Be specific. Your example can be from history, science, politics, business, entertainment, pop culture, current events, personal experience, etc. Anything can be an example, but choose ONE only for each paragraph. It needs to be something you are knowledgeable about and also something that you believe strongly supports your thesis. You have three tasks in your body paragraphs:

• Introduce your example.
• Describe it.
• Explain how it fully supports your thesis.

You should spend the majority of your body paragraph accomplishing the third step: explaining how it fully supports your thesis . Aim to convince the reader through very concrete details how your position on the issue is correct.

Paragraph 3 — Second Example (4–6 sentences)

Use a transition phrase to introduce the second example. Describe it, and explain again how it fully supports your thesis. You may refer to your first example if you need to, but prioritize a focus on your new example. Don’t mention your third example until you get to the third paragraph.

Paragraph 4 — Third Example (4–6 sentences)

Use a transition phrase again in the first topic sentence. Describe the example. Explain how it supports. Make sure you are elucidating for the reader how each example relates to the topic.

Paragraph 5 — Conclusion (2–4 sentences)

In your conclusion, introduce the opposing side. Explain their position in general terms. Refute their position. Then reinforce the correctness of your own thesis. This takes care of having to come up with a conclusion—you’ll already know what to do! Here’s how it might look:

Although ________ is demonstrably correct, some have argued that _______, believing that ________. However, this viewpoint on the present issue is negated by ________. Rather, __________. Therefore, in the long run,

TSI Essay Practice

Be sure to write at least 2–3 sample essays before your exam so you are comfortable with the format. Have a teacher, friend, or trusted relative read through your essay and give you feedback. You may want to start with our TSI Practice Test Essay .

We have also provided some more TSI essay prompts in the list below. You can use these TSI essay topics to write additional practice essays. Try to utilize the template that we have provided in order to structure your response.

TSI Essay Topics

1) Do works of art have the power to change people’s lives? Some people say a book or a movie has the power to do just that. Are they exaggerating, or can art have such a large impact of individuals?

2) Is an education a requirement for a successful career? Explain the topic and either agree or disagree with the statement, offering support for your position.

3) Scientists and politicians argue over whether global warming and climate control present a real threat to human welfare. Take a position on this issue and explain whether or not you believe this to be a serious problem for humanity.

Transition Words List

Agreement Words

• in the first place
• not only … but also
• as a matter of fact
• in like manner
• in addition
• coupled with
• in the same fashion / way
• first, second, third
• in the light of

Opposition Words

• in contrast
• different from
• of course …, but
• on the other hand
• on the contrary
• at the same time
• in spite of
• (and) still

Causation Words

• in the event that
• for the purpose of
• with this intention
• with this in mind
• in the hope that
• in order to

Example Words

• in other words
• to put it differently
• for one thing
• as an illustration
• in this case
• for this reason
• to put it another way
• that is to say
• with attention to

TSI Practice Test Essay >>

Analyzing TSI Essay Examples: Strategies for Success

Strategies for Success

TSI Essay Sample - 1.

Tsi essay sample - 2., final words.

As I delve into the realm of TSI essay writing, I find myself fascinated by the nuances that make an essay stand out. Through the lens of two distinct TSI essay examples, I aim to dissect the elements that contribute to their effectiveness. My journey through these examples is not just an academic exercise; it's a quest to uncover the secrets of persuasive writing within the TSI framework. I will share my observations and insights, pinpointing the common pitfalls to avoid and highlighting the key strategies that can elevate your writing. This exploration is designed to arm you with the knowledge and tools to craft essays that not only meet but exceed the TSI standards. Join me as we navigate the intricate world of essay writing, learning how to communicate ideas clearly and impactfully.

Throughout my life, I've encountered numerous challenges that, at first glance, seemed insurmountable. However, these obstacles have played a pivotal role in shaping my character and guiding my journey toward self-improvement. Reflecting on my experiences, I've realized that the most significant growth often comes from the most daunting challenges. This essay explores my personal journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the continuous pursuit of self-improvement.

One of the earliest challenges I faced was moving to a new city during my high school years. The prospect of leaving behind friends and familiar surroundings filled me with anxiety and trepidation. Initially, I struggled to adapt to my new environment, grappling with feelings of isolation and disconnection. However, I recognized that succumbing to these feelings would not change my circumstances. Instead, I chose to view this challenge as an opportunity for growth. I pushed myself to step out of my comfort zone, joining clubs and participating in community events. These efforts gradually led to new friendships and a sense of belonging. This experience taught me the value of resilience and adaptability, illustrating that embracing change can lead to positive outcomes.

Another pivotal challenge occurred during my first year of college, when I faced academic difficulties in a particularly demanding course. Accustomed to excelling without much struggle, this setback was a blow to my confidence. It forced me to reevaluate my approach to learning and acknowledge my limitations. Determined to overcome this obstacle, I sought help through tutoring, dedicated additional time to study, and formed study groups with my peers. These strategies not only improved my academic performance but also enhanced my time management and collaboration skills. This experience underscored the importance of perseverance and the willingness to seek assistance when needed.

Through these challenges, I have learned that obstacles are not barriers to success but stepping stones to personal growth and self-improvement. Each challenge has taught me valuable lessons about myself and the world around me. Resilience, adaptability, and perseverance have become cornerstones of my character, enabling me to face new challenges with confidence and determination. In navigating these trials, I've also discovered the immense value of seeking assistance and guidance, whether through mentors, peers, or innovative tools like  paper typer ai  to enhance my problem-solving capabilities.

In conclusion, the journey to self-improvement is ongoing and fraught with challenges. However, it is through these challenges that we discover our strengths and weaknesses, learn to adapt, and develop the resilience necessary to navigate life's ups and downs. My experiences have taught me that with the right mindset and approach, every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and improvement. As I continue on my path, I am committed to embracing challenges with an open heart and mind, knowing that each obstacle is an opportunity to become a better version of myself. This journey of self-improvement is not only about overcoming external challenges but also about internal growth and discovering one's true potential.

Let's Look at First TSI Essay in Detail

Purpose and focus.

My essay aims to share the profound impact of overcoming challenges on personal growth. I stay focused on illustrating this through my experiences, emphasizing the value of resilience and self-improvement. This central theme guides the narrative, ensuring every paragraph contributes to this overarching message.

Organization and Structure

I organized the essay chronologically, starting with an early life challenge and progressing to more recent hurdles. Each challenge is presented separately, allowing for clear transitions and a coherent flow. This structure supports the narrative, making it easy for readers to follow my growth journey

Development and Support

In my essay, I delve into specific challenges and the strategies I employed to overcome them. By detailing my actions and reflections, I support my thesis that challenges are growth opportunities. Personal anecdotes serve as evidence, reinforcing my points and providing a deeper understanding of my experiences.

Sentence Variety and Style

I consciously employed a mix of complex and simple sentences to keep the narrative engaging. My style aims to be reflective and insightful, utilizing descriptive language to convey emotions and learnings. This variety enhances readability and helps convey my journey's nuances.

Mechanical Conventions and Critical Thinking

I paid close attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling to ensure clarity and professionalism. My essay also reflects critical thinking as I analyze my responses to challenges and the lessons learned. This analytical approach demonstrates my ability to reflect deeply on experiences and extract valuable insights.

Curiosity has always been the driving force behind my quest for knowledge and understanding. It's an innate desire to explore the unknown, ask questions, and seek answers that lie beyond our current understanding. In this essay, I share how my curiosity has fueled my personal growth and sparked innovation in my endeavours, illustrating the transformative power of a curious mind.

From a young age, I was fascinated by the workings of the natural world. This curiosity led me to spend countless hours in my backyard, observing the behaviour of insects and plants, and wondering about the intricate systems that sustain life. This early exploration laid the foundation for my passion for science, guiding me toward continuous discovery. This curiosity motivated me to participate in the science fair, where I embarked on a project to explore sustainable energy solutions. Despite facing the challenge of limited resources and knowledge, my desire to contribute to environmental sustainability pushed me to seek mentors and delve into research papers.

The process was daunting, filled with trial and error, yet my curiosity kept me persistent. The project eventually led to developing a prototype that utilized solar power more efficiently. This experience taught me that curiosity, when acted upon, can lead to tangible outcomes that extend beyond personal growth to contribute to the broader community. It underscored the importance of asking questions, seeking knowledge, and being open to new experiences.

In college, my curiosity drove me to take courses outside my major, ranging from philosophy to computer science. This interdisciplinary approach broadened my perspective and allowed me to integrate diverse concepts into my primary field of study, leading to innovative project ideas and research initiatives. The curiosity to understand complex systems from multiple angles enabled me to contribute to a research project to develop a more efficient data analysis algorithm. By merging concepts from different disciplines, we could approach the problem from a unique angle, meaningfully contributing to the field.

Curiosity has also taught me the value of lifelong learning. In a rapidly changing world, staying curious means continually adapting and acquiring new skills. This mindset drives me to seek new challenges, learn from failures, and persist in uncertainty. Curiosity is not just about seeking knowledge for its own sake; it's about applying that knowledge creatively to solve problems and make a positive impact.

In conclusion, curiosity has catalysed my personal growth and the innovations I've pursued. It has taught me that asking questions and seeking understanding can lead to discoveries far beyond what we initially imagined. By embracing curiosity, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities, fostering personal development and contributing to the advancement of society. As I continue my journey, I remain committed to nurturing my curiosity, knowing it will lead to further growth, learning, and innovation.

Let's Look at the Second TSI Essay in More Detail

My essay highlights curiosity as a catalyst for personal growth and innovation. I focus on how curiosity has shaped my learning journey and led to meaningful contributions, ensuring every example reinforces the central theme of curiosity's transformative power.

I structured the essay from personal anecdotes to broader implications, organizing content around key moments where curiosity drove significant outcomes. This progression from personal experiences to their impact on innovation and learning provides a logical and compelling narrative structure.

I developed my thesis by recounting specific instances where curiosity led to discovery and innovation, such as my college science fair project and interdisciplinary studies. These examples are supported with details of my engagement and the outcomes, illustrating a curious mindset's practical application and benefits.

To keep the narrative engaging, I used a variety of sentence structures, mixing complex ideas with simpler, reflective insights. My writing style aims to be both informative and evocative, employing descriptive language to bring my experiences and reflections to life for the reader.

I carefully adhered to grammatical rules and spelling, ensuring the essay was polished and professional. Critical thinking is evident in how I analyze and reflect on the role of curiosity in driving personal and academic advancements, demonstrating an ability to connect personal experiences with broader concepts.

In reflecting on these TSI essay examples, I've gained invaluable insights into the art of essay writing. By dissecting my own narratives on overcoming challenges and pursuing curiosity, I've highlighted the nuances that contribute to effective essay construction. These examples serve as a testament to my personal and academic growth and a blueprint for others striving to enhance their writing skills. I hope my journey and analysis inspire you to approach your TSI essays with confidence, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the elements that forge compelling and impactful writing.

Writing the TSI Essay: Strategies for Success

Writing a persuasive essay isn’t difficult, but writing an effective one does require thought and strategy. And when there’s some pressure to write that essay, like when students are writing a persuasive essay for the TSI, it can be even harder to think on the fly.

Many Texas high school students will take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test to evaluate their essential reading, writing, and math skills to ensure they’re prepared to succeed in freshman-level dual credit or college courses.

While writing a successful TSI essay or five-paragraph persuasive essay for English classes is much different than writing a successful personal statement, statement of purpose , or supplemental essay (the writing topics I normally cover), I thought this topic was worth discussing.

In this post, we’ll explore what the TSI persuasive essay is , how your essay is evaluated , and the strategies you can implement to achieve your desired score. I’ll also give you some links to sample TSI essays, responses, and other resources . 

About the TSI Essay

For the essay portion of the TSI, you’ll receive a random essay prompt, which consists of:

• A short passage to read that’s based on an important issue
• Instructions for picking a point of view to support and then writing a persuasive essay on that point of view

You’ll need to write a roughly 500- to 600-word persuasive essay with four to five paragraphs (an opening, a closing, and three body paragraphs). The TSI is an untimed test, so you have as much time as you need. Don’t rush. Take your time and be thoughtful about your answer, even if you’d rather be anywhere than taking the test.

The TSI doesn't expect you to have any particular knowledge to answer the prompt (e.g., the prompt won’t assume you’ve read a certain book or have detailed knowledge of an event). Instead, the topic will require you to pick a side of a debatable topic/current event and then defend that side. Keep in mind that the chosen issue doesn’t have a right or wrong answer, so you won’t be judged on the position you take. 

How You’ll Be Evaluated on the TSI Essay

Reviewers will evaluate your essay on these six factors, according to Mometrix Test Preparation :

• Purpose and focus. Is the information you're presenting unified, coherent, and cohesive? Do you address the issue and your position clearly? Do you keep with that position?
• Organization and structure. Are your ideas and paragraphs connected in an orderly, logical fashion? Does your organization result in a clear path from one point to another? 
• Development and support. Have you developed your Ideas? Do your statements support your thesis and build upon one another, leading to a clearly developed statement or call to action? Do you give examples, explanations, and definitions? Does this supporting text help convince the reader?
• Sentence variety and style. Are your sentences and paragraphs exhibiting control of vocabulary, voice, and structure? Do you use strong action verbs and a varied word choice? Are you using active voice and writing using the same person (I)?
• Mechanical conventions. Do the ideas you express show an understanding of standard English conventions (proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, and more – all the things you were tested on in the Writing Test section of the TSI).
• Critical thinking. Does your point of view demonstrate an understanding of the relationship that exists between ideas? Are you expressing thoughts that are well-reasoned and supported? Do you clearly identify and support your point of view? Are your arguments logical enough to convince the reader of your position?

Scoring the TSI Essay: What You're Aiming for

You’ll receive a score of 1-8 on each of the six sections (although you’ll see only one overall 1-8 score), and a “college ready” score is 5 or higher. Essays that are too short to be evaluated against these criteria, that miss addressing the prompt completely, or that aren’t written in English will automatically receive a 0. 

Keep in mind that a computer scores these essays, so you’re just trying to show the computer you can form a logical, well-developed argument – and use solid grammar and spelling and a decent writing style.

TSI Essay Examples

Check out these TSI essay samples from the College Board , which evaluate essays scored 1-8 and explain why these sample TSI essays received the score they did and how they could’ve been improved. 

Again, you won’t be scored on your actual opinion, so don’t be concerned you’ll “lose points” if you support the less popular perspective.

Steps to Writing Your TSI Essay

Writing an effective, high-scoring essay means taking your time going through each step and really planning out your essay. While the planning portion doesn’t need to take a lot of time, but it will help you in the end by making your essay flow better and being well-thought-out.

Four important steps go into writing a great TSI essay.

1. Understand the Assignment

• Read the passage and the prompt. Read it again!
• Make sure you understand the TSI essay prompt, the issue it’s presenting, and the sides to the issue you can write about. Remember: This essay doesn’t expect you to have any technical or specific knowledge to write an effective response. Instead, you’ll use your own experiences, examples, and knowledge to defend your position.
• Consider how you’ll address the issue the passage mentions. You’ll need to pick one side of the issue to write about in your essay – even if you feel your stance on the position falls somewhere in the middle. Your score doesn't depend on which side of the issue you take; rather, it’s about how well you can support it.

2.  Make a Plan

Two of the biggest factors in a high-scoring TSI essay grade are length and clarity. As a result, you’ll want to use the scratch paper you have available to decide the position you want to take and sketch out a rough outline.

On the scratch paper:

• Decide which position of the TSI essay prompt will be easiest to write about. Making this decision could involve making a two-column table and then writing down the evidence you can think of to support each position. Usually, it will become clear which one will be easier for you to write about (hint: the column with more writing/examples in it). Once you decide your position …
• List out supporting examples. Come up with four or five examples to support your position. Bring in your personal experience and knowledge to support your response to the TSI essay prompt. The more specific, the better. Names, dates, places, conversations – these specifics will help you defend your position and earn a higher score. And they can come from anywhere – history, the news, pop culture, social media, movies/TV shows, politics, sports, entertainment, family history, quotations, personal stories, etc.. 
• Identify the three (minimum of two) strongest examples. Those will become your body paragraphs. Finally, you'll …
• Draft your thesis statement. Based on your position and examples, what is the topic of your essay, what side of the argument will you be defending, and why have you chosen that side?

3. Start Writing

With the outlining work done, you’ve done the hard part. Congratulations. But you’re just getting started. Now it’s time to put it all together into a cohesive essay. Here’s how you’ll start writing each paragraph of your TSI essay.

Introduction

Spend no more than 3-4 sentences in your opening. Even 1-2 sentences are sufficient to state your position on the assigned topic. This will be quick and to the point, letting you spend more of your time defending your position.

In your introduction:

• Introduce the reader to the topic. This may include some sort of “hook” or attention-getting sentence that highlights the issue. This could be a quote, a personal anecdote, a historical reference, or a current piece of news.
• Admission of complexity. Acknowledge that there are many sides to the issue.
• State your thesis. Clearly and definitively state your position on the matter. This should be the last sentence of the paragraph and can include mentions of the two or three pieces of supporting evidence you’ll be presenting in the body paragraphs.

Body Paragraphs

Aim for writing three body paragraphs, but write a minimum of two. Each paragraph should have at least 4-6 sentences. Here are some other tips for writing your body paragraphs:

• Order your body paragraphs from the strongest to the weakest. Use your strongest example as your first body paragraph.
• Use transition words and phrases , like the ones below from Merriam-Webster, to signal to the reader that you're moving on to a new idea but this new paragraph is connected to the previous one. 
• Start with a topic sentence. Using a transition word or phrase, introduces your example and establish the point you’re going to make in this paragraph only.
• Next, fully describe that example. Be specific. Use the detailed examples you came up with in “Make a Plan” above. Use one example per paragraph. Be descriptive and thorough. 
• End by explaining how this example supports your thesis. This is where you’ll spend the majority of the paragraph. Use specifics and details to convince your reader how this example demonstrates the position you hold on the topic is the right one.

Much like the introduction, the conclusion will be a short (3-4 sentences, max) paragraph that sums up your position, addresses the opposing viewpoint, and leaves the reader with a closing thought.

As a result, the format might look a little like this:

• Acknowledge there’s another point of view by saying that while your position is obviously the correct one, other people believe [insert a brief summary of the opposing viewpoint].
• Briefly state why that opposing position/perspective is incorrect.
• Restate why your opinion is the right one, which may include a summary of the points you’ve made in your body paragraphs.

Note: While you are mentioning the opposing viewpoint in the closing, this is not the same as taking both sides, which I cautioned against earlier. This is mentioning the other perspective but then briefly and effectively criticizing it and showing why yours is better.

Here’s a sample conclusion from TSIPracticeTest.com that shows how you can fill in the blanks:

Although ________ is demonstrably correct, some have argued that _______, believing that ________. However, this viewpoint on the present issue is negated by ________. Rather, __________. Therefore, in the long run it is clear that _____________.

4. Proofread Your Essay

Once you think you’re done writing, you’re not. Now it’s time for editing and proofreading .

Read your essay slowly, from start to finish. Make sure your ideas make sense and support your thesis. Check that you transition from one paragraph to another. You should ensure your examples are detailed, descriptive, and support your argument. Sound good? Good. But you’re not done … yet.

Because part of your score is based on spelling, grammar, and punctuation, read the essay at least once after you think it’s done. Read it back slowly to yourself, and look for any mistakes you can correct. 

Remember: You have no time limit for writing the TSI essay, and taking your time now is better than having to take the test again because of errors you could’ve corrected.

Want More Help on the TSI Essay?

Hopefully these tips and tricks are enough to help you hit your targets when writing the TSI essay. But if you’re looking to read sample essays (and evaluations), practice with sample prompts, or learn more tips and tricks. You can find additional resources online, but some I found to be helpful are:

Sample TSI Essays and TSI Writing Resources

• Tips and Strategies for the TSI Essay
• College Board: WritePlacer Guide With Sample Essays
• Practice Test Essay
• TSI Essay Practice! – Michael Tooey (video, 01:20:36)

Support for the Full TSI

• TSI flash cards . These color-coded flash cards include study tips and cover mathematics, language arts, and reading. They also include practice questions.
• TSI Study Guide 2023-2024 (Jonathan Cox). This study guide includes 2 practice tests (one online, one in book), answers/explanations, access to online flash cards, and other study materials.
• TSI Study Guide 2023-2024 (Joshua Rueda). This study guide includes 3 practice tests, answers, and explanations; test-taking strategies; and a breakdown of each section.

Writing a college admission essay instead? The guidelines are much different. Learn how to get started with y our personal statement.

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TSIA2 Test Prep

• About the Test

TSIA Practice Test

• TSIA2 Practice Tests - Accuplacer Once you've created an account, you'll have access to TSIA2 practice tests resembling actual tests.

Chat with a librarian

Tips and strategies.

• You will not need any outside knowledge . You will not need any technical information or understanding of specific sources.  Everything you need to answer the question will be part of the prompt.
• Select one side only .  Take a strong side on the issue you are presenting otherwise your argument will be weak.
• You will not be scored on your opinion .  Write from the view of whatever side is easiest for you to argue.  You will not receive a lower score based on personal bias.
• Don't change your position!  Keep on the same side of your argument from beginning to end.  Remember, you are allowed to request scratch paper which is a great place to write a quick outline to help you stay on topic.
• Debunk opposing arguments.   If you know the opposite side of the argument, you can argue against those points.  Just make sure you are effectively criticizing the opposite argument, otherwise your argument will appear weak.
• Your introduction and conclusion should be brief.  Keep you introduction to three or four sentences and your conclusion to one or two sentences.  The majority of your time should be spent on writing the body of your paragraphs!
• Use transition words!  This helps with the flow of your pape and makes it easier for your reader to understanding that you are moving onto another paragraph.

Essay Guidelines

The TSI essay will be evaluated on your organization, focus, development and support, sentence structure, and mechanical conventions. A simple 5 paragraph essay will help you structure your paper in an clear and concise manner.

Paragraph 1 (3-4 sentences)

• Introduce the topic.
• Express your opinion on the topic.
• Your thesis statement should be the final sentence.

Paragraph 2 (4-6 sentences)

• Provide your best point first.
• Be specific in your example.  You can pull from history, science, politics, business, entertainment, current events, personal experience, etc.
• Explain how your point supports your thesis. 

Paragraph 3 (4-6 sentences)

• Use a transition phrase in the first sentence.
• Provide a new point.  You shouldn't repeat a previously stated point.

Paragraph 4 (4-6 sentences)

Paragraph 5 (2-4 sentences).

• Reinforce how your thesis is correct.
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WritePlacer Essay Guide

During the ACCUPLACER test, you will have to take the WritePlacer exam, which requires you to write an essay. Your essay will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Purpose and focus
• Organization and structure
• Development and support
• Sentence variety and style
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical thinking

You will have 1 hour to plan, write, and proofread this essay.

Your Accuplacer essay is only required to be 300–600 words in length, so a simple 5 paragraph essay will be more than sufficient. Scores on WritePlacer range from 1 to 8, with 8 being the highest.

An essay that is too short to be evaluated, written on a topic other than the one presented, or written in a language other than English will be given a score of zero.

The biggest differences between a low-scoring and a high-scoring essay is LENGTH and CLARITY. Aim to achieve multiple paragraphs with good organization, and this essay should be fairly easy!

WritePlacer Tips and Strategies

• This essay DOES NOT require you to have any outside knowledge. The essay will be based off a provided prompt meant to spark your creativity. Everything you need to answer the question will be part of the prompt!
• You must take a clear stance. Unlike real life where most of our opinions are a mix of gray, the ACCUPLACER essay requires you to take a strong stance on the issue provided in the prompt. Essays that don’t take a clear stance will score low on the rubric.
• Your stance doesn’t affect your score. The test is not steering you to one side of the argument or another. The side you choose doesn’t matter; what matters is how well you craft your argument.
• Don’t change your stance. Part of taking a clear stance means following it through to the end of the response. Even if you are struggling with the stance you chose, work your way to the end.
• Be specific in your argument. As long as you can argue logically that it supports your thesis, no example is “too” specific. One of the biggest issues that writers have with the WritePlacer exam is being too vague and general. If you are using an example from personal experience, using some names, dates, places, and other concrete details can go a long way. Try to avoid hypothetical examples as well.
• Incorporate a counter-argument. While you need to take a clear stance, that doesn’t mean you have to ignore the other side of the argument. The best writers take the opposing side into account before criticizing it and effectively securing their stance as the correct one. This is a great tool to use in your conclusion, although many students include it in an additional body paragraph.
• Keep the introduction and conclusion brief . Don’t take forever to get to the topic. The function of an introductory paragraph is to introduce the reader to the topic in the prompt, and then to clearly and forcefully state your position on it. This should be done in no more than 3–4 sentences. In the conclusion, 1–2 sentences are enough to reiterate your position and leave the essay with a closing idea. Save the bulk of your writing-time for your body paragraphs!
• Use Transition Words . Scroll down to the bottom of this article to see a good list of common transition words. Be sure to use them as you move between paragraphs! Always make sure the reader will understand why you are moving from one paragraph to the next paragraph!

WritePlacer Template

This is a sample outline for the ACCUPLACER Essay. Notice we are aiming for 5 paragraphs total. You may opt for a shorter 4 paragraph version if 5 paragraphs are too many for you to write, but aim for 5 paragraphs if you can. If you have trouble completing 5 paragraphs, see if you can streamline your body paragraphs. They can often be bloated with unnecessary wordiness. Keep the introduction and the conclusion short and sweet.

Paragraph 1 — Introduction (3–4 sentences)

You will want to begin your essay with one of the following:

• a generalization about the topic,
• a quotation,
• a short anecdote to set-up the correctness of your position,
• a historical framework,
• or a piece of news illustrating the contemporariness of the issue.

Admit to the complexity of the issue. You have two goals in the beginning part of the essay: to introduce the  topic , and to express your  opinion  on it. Be sure to place your thesis as the final sentence in your introduction.

Paragraph 2 — First Example (4–6 sentences)

Start with your most-powerful or relevant example. Remember that you won’t have any material to work from, so it’s OK that you don’t have direct quotes, statistics, or other incredibly specific details in your examples. However, be as specific as you can be about how your example supports your position. Anything can be an example, but choose ONE only for each paragraph. It needs to be something you are knowledgeable about and also something that you believe strongly supports your thesis. You have three tasks in your body paragraphs:

• Introduce your example (history, science, politics, business, entertainment, pop culture, current events, personal experience, etc).
• Describe your example as specifically as you can (do not make up fact/statistics; readers can usually tell when you’re making something up).
• Explain how it fully supports your thesis. This is the most important step and should be your main focus. This is where you prove your point.

You should be spending the majority of your body paragraph accomplishing the third step:  explaining how it fully supports your thesis . Aim to convince the reader through very concrete details how your position on the issue is correct.

Paragraph 3 — Second Example (4–6 sentences)

Use a transition phrase to introduce the second example, and then follow the same format as the previous paragraph with your new example. It’s OK to mention your first example, but the main focus of your paragraph should be on the new example, and, most importantly, how the new example proves your thesis.

Paragraph 4 — Third Example (4–6 sentences)

Use another transition phrase to introduce your third example. Then, follow the same format as the previous two paragraphs. Again, make sure the focus of your paragraph is on your new example and how it proves your thesis.

Paragraph 5 —  Conclusion (2–4 sentences)

Many writers struggle with the conclusion. A good way to end your essay is with a counter-argument. Introduce an opposing opinion, explain it in general terms, then refute it. Finish the paragraph by reinforcing the correctness of your own stance. Here’s how it might look:

Despite the fact that                     , some people will argue that                     . However,                     (refute the opposing viewpoint as wrong and/or shortsighted) . Instead,                     (discuss how your viewpoint is more valid than the viewpoint of the opposition ). Therefore,                     (leave the reader thinking about how correct your stance is) .

ACCUPLACER Essay Practice

Be sure to write at least 2 sample essays before your exam. This will help you sharpen your skills and ensure that you are comfortable with the format. Have a teacher, friend, or mentor read through your exam and give you feedback. Use the links below to find our 2 practice ACCUPLACER essay prompts. As you write your practice essays try to follow the above template to the best of your ability:

Practice Essay 1

Practice Essay 2

Transition Words List

Agreement Words

• in the first place
• not only … but also
• as a matter of fact
• in like manner
• in addition
• coupled with
• in the same fashion / way
• first, second, third
• in the light of

Opposition Words

• in contrast
• different from
• of course …, but
• on the other hand
• on the contrary
• at the same time
• in spite of
• (and) still

Causation Words

• in the event that
• for the purpose of
• with this intention
• with this in mind
• in the hope that
• in order to
• … then

Example Words

• in other words
• to put it differently
• for one thing
• as an illustration
• in this case
• for this reason
• to put it another way
• that is to say
• with attention to

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TSI Study Resources

The following resources may help you prepare to take or re-take the TSI assessments.

TSI Study Handout

This printable handout contains testing tips and useful websites that may help you prepare for taking the TSI. Simply click on the QR codes on the page, and it will take you to an ELAR test, Math test, or combination of both. You can also scan the QR codes with a smartphone:

Accuplacer Practice tests and sample questions and essays are available at the College Board’s Accuplacer Website , you can download practice questions and sample essays, and sign up for the free web-based study app.

TSI Preparation Classes This Continuing Education TSI course is designed for students who have taken the TSI and not placed at the college ready level. The course prepares students with a review of topics that students need to know to successfully pass the Texas Success Initiative Assessment exam. Courses are taught by Collin College Math Faculty and are delivered online. Course schedule and registration information can be found here .

Learning Express TSI Resources EBSCO Learning Express offers TSI preparation practice exams for the ELAR, Essay and Math assessments. Follow these instructions for how to locate the resources and create an account.

Anthony Peterson Center for Academic Assistance (APCAA)

The APCCA on our campuses will be glad to help you review materials to prepare to take the TSI assessment for the first time, or to retake the assessment if you did not receive the score you wanted. For more information, go to the APCAA Website .

Learning Locator Code If you did not get the score you would like, and you would like to retake the TSI, you can review materials by using the Learning Locator Code (LLC) on your score report to enter the Math or ELAR code into this Website .

College Readiness Classes for the TSI Assessments This course is designed for students who did not receive a course placement after taking the TSI assessment. Classes are offered at the McKinney and Plano campuses in the evening. Must be a high school graduate to attend. Please visit www.collinael.com , call 972-349-4550 or email [email protected] to sign up for this free class.

Other Resources Here are a few other free websites that may provide you with additional practice activities related to the TSI. (Note: Collin College is not affiliated with these organizations and makes no claim as to the quality of the information they present.)

• https://www.mathhelp.com/tsia2-math-test-prep/
• https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/subjects/core-skills/
• https://edready.org/signup (sign up for an account or enter as a guest)
• https://uniontestprep.com/tsia2/practice-test
• https://www.hippocampus.org/
• https://www.khanacademy.org/
• https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra
• https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra2  (mastery of this course could help with placement into college-level math)

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TSI Test - ELAR (Reading/Writing) Guide

• Testing Center

Helpful Links

• Grammar Guide A guide to grammar rules.
• Writing Essays A guide to writing essays.
• Essay General Tips
• Multiple Choice General Tips
• TSI Editing Checklist
• Tips for Content
• Sample Essay Prompt and Responses
• Sample Multiple Choice Questions
• Multiple Choice Answer Key

The Writing section of the TSI is designed to evaluate a student's ability to express their thoughts and ideas in writing. It consists of two components: an essay and multiple-choice questions on editing and revising written texts . It is graded by software.

The essay component of the Writing section requires students to write an essay of 300-600 words on a given topic. The essay prompt is designed to assess the student's ability to organize and develop ideas, support arguments with evidence, and use standard written English conventions.

The multiple-choice questions component of the Writing section includes 15 items (out of 30 multiple choice) that test students' skills in revising and editing written texts. The items may include questions on sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. 

The Writing section of the TSI is important for students who plan to attend college because it helps to determine whether they are prepared for college-level writing assignments. By assessing their writing skills, the TSI can identify areas where students may need additional support and resources to succeed in college-level courses.

These are some general tips to help with the essay section.

Understand the scoring rubric: Familiarize yourself with the scoring rubric used to evaluate the essay. This will help you understand what the evaluators are looking for and how you can earn a high score.

Plan and organize your essay: Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay. This will help you stay on track and ensure that your essay is well-organized and easy to follow.

Use specific examples and evidence: To support your arguments, use specific examples and evidence from your own experiences or from the reading materials provided.

Focus on clarity and coherence: Make sure your essay is easy to read and understand. Use transitions and topic sentences to connect ideas and create a clear flow of information.

Follow standard written English conventions: Use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling throughout your essay. Avoid slang and informal language.

Practice writing under time pressure: Set a timer and practice writing essays in a timed environment. This will help you get used to writing under time pressure and improve your time management skills.

Review and revise your work: Before submitting your essay, review and revise your work for errors, clarity, and coherence. Make sure your essay is well-structured and easy to follow.

Write at least 400 (but preferably at least 500) words.  Though the test officially only requires a 300 word minimum, students don't tend to receive the best scores by only meeting the minimum. Remember, the grading is done by a machine. Do not go over 600 words.

Read the entire sentence or passage carefully: Make sure to read the entire sentence or passage before answering the question. Sometimes, the context of the surrounding sentences can help you identify the correct answer.

Identify the error type: Identify the type of error in the sentence or passage, such as grammar, punctuation, or sentence structure. Knowing the error type can help you identify the correct answer choice.

Eliminate answer choices: Eliminate any answer choices that you know are incorrect. This can increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.

Watch for tricky answer choices: Sometimes, answer choices can be written in a tricky way to try and trip you up. Make sure to read each answer choice carefully and watch for subtle differences between them.

Pay attention to sentence structure: Sentence structure can play a big role in determining the correct answer. Look for errors such as run-on sentences, sentence fragments, and subject-verb agreement.

Review basic grammar rules: Make sure you are familiar with basic grammar rules such as verb tenses, pronoun usage, and punctuation. Reviewing these rules can help you identify errors and choose the correct answer.

Use context clues: If you are unsure of the meaning of a word or phrase, look at the surrounding context to see if you can determine its meaning. This can help you identify the correct answer choice.

Be aware of common errors: Certain types of errors, such as misplaced modifiers or faulty parallelism, are common in written texts. Being aware of these common errors can help you identify them more easily.

Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with identifying and correcting errors in written texts. Use practice tests and study materials to hone your skills and prepare for the multiple-choice writing-focused section of the TSI.

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) essay evaluates your writing skills for college-level courses. To excel in the TSI essay, effective editing is crucial. This checklist outlines key areas to focus on when editing your essay to meet the TSI requirements and maximize your chances of success. Remember to make the essay 400+ words.

I. Organization and Structure

• Is there a clear introduction that grabs the reader's attention and presents a thesis statement?
• Does each paragraph have a clear topic sentence that relates to the thesis statement?
• Are the paragraphs logically organized, with smooth transitions between ideas?
• Is there a conclusion that summarizes the main points and restates the thesis?

II. Development and Support

• Are the main ideas and supporting details clearly expressed and effectively developed?
• Is there sufficient evidence and examples to support your claims?
• Have you addressed counterarguments or opposing viewpoints, if applicable?
• Is the information presented in a logical and coherent manner?

III. Sentence Variety and Style

• Have you used a variety of sentence structures to enhance readability?
• Are there any repetitive or unclear sentences that need revision?
• Have you used appropriate vocabulary and avoided slang or informal language?
• Have you maintained a consistent tone and style throughout the essay?

IV. Mechanical Conventions

• Have you checked for spelling errors, typos, and word choice mistakes?
• Are capitalization, punctuation, and paragraph indentation used correctly?
• Have you used transitions effectively to connect ideas and improve the flow of your writing?
• Are sentences grammatically correct, with proper subject-verb agreement and punctuation?

V. Purpose and Focus

• Is the purpose of the essay clearly defined and effectively communicated?
• Does the essay stay focused on the main topic or argument throughout?
• Have you avoided tangents or irrelevant information that may distract from the main point?
• Is there a clear central idea or theme that guides the content and structure of the essay?
• Have you considered the target audience and adjusted your writing style and tone accordingly?
• Have you reviewed each paragraph to ensure it contributes to the overall purpose and focus of the essay?

VI. Critical Thinking

• Have you presented a well-reasoned and logical argument or analysis?
• Have you clearly stated your claims or assertions and provided sufficient evidence to support them?
• Have you used sound and reliable support for your claims? Have you avoided relying solely on personal opinions or unsupported assertions?
• Have you considered counterarguments or alternative perspectives and addressed them appropriately?
• Have you avoided logical fallacies or errors in reasoning, such as hasty generalizations or ad hominem attacks?
• Have you evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of your own arguments and made necessary revisions?

Essay Section

Multiple Choice Section

Sample Prompt

Take a look at sample essay responses from CollegeBoard .

1. Choose the option that corrects the underlined portion of the sentence.

The students are planning there upcoming field trip to the museum.

A) they are

C) they're

D) No change

2. Choose the option that best combines the following two sentences.

Sentence 1: The book was captivating.

Sentence 2: It kept me hooked until the end.

A) The book was captivating kept me hooked until the end.

B) The book, it was captivating, kept me hooked until the end.

C) The book was captivating and kept me hooked until the end.

D) The book was captivating, it kept me hooked until the end.

3. Choose the option that corrects the punctuation error in the sentence.

We went to the store, and bought some groceries, snacks, and beverages.

A) We went to the store and bought some groceries, snacks and beverages.

B) We went to the store, and bought some groceries snacks and beverages.

C) We went to the store, and bought some groceries, snacks and beverages.

1. Choose the option that corrects the underlined portion of the sentence. Correct Answer: B

This answer choice is incorrect. "They are" is a contraction that does not fit grammatically in the sentence and does not provide the necessary correction.

This answer choice is correct. "Their" is a possessive pronoun indicating ownership. In this context, it correctly indicates that the upcoming field trip belongs to the students.

This answer choice is incorrect. "They're" is a contraction of "they are" and does not fit grammatically in the sentence.

This answer choice is incorrect. The original underlined portion contains an error, as "there" is an adverb indicating a location and does not make sense in the context of the sentence.

2. Choose the option that best combines the following two sentences. Correct Answer: C

This answer is incorrect. It lacks proper punctuation or conjunction to connect the two independent clauses. It results in a sentence fragment and lacks clarity and grammatical correctness.

This answer is incorrect. It introduces unnecessary repetition with the use of the pronoun "it." It also includes unnecessary punctuation, which disrupts the flow of the sentence.

This answer is correct. It effectively combines the two independent clauses using the coordinating conjunction "and," maintaining clarity and coherence.

D) The book was captivating, it kept me hooked until the end.

This answer is incorrect. It introduces a comma splice error by using a comma to join two independent clauses. It lacks a coordinating conjunction or proper punctuation.

3. Choose the option that corrects the punctuation error in the sentence. Correct Answer: A

This answer is correct. It removes the unnecessary comma after "store" and correctly uses commas to separate the items in the list ("groceries, snacks, and beverages").

This answer is incorrect. It omits the necessary commas after "groceries" and before "snacks."

This answer is incorrect. It retains the unnecessary comma after "store" and lacks commas to separate the items in the list.

This answer is incorrect. The original sentence contains a punctuation error and requires correction.

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Essays That Worked

The essays are a place to show us who you are and who you’ll be in our community.

It’s a chance to add depth to something that is important to you and tell the admissions committee more about your background or goals. Below you’ll find selected examples of essays that “worked,” as nominated by our admissions committee. In each of these essays, students were able to share stories from their everyday lives to reveal something about their character, values, and life that aligned with the culture and values at Hopkins.

Read essays that worked from Transfer applicants .

Hear from the class of 2027.

These selections represent just a few examples of essays we found impressive and helpful during the past admissions cycle. We hope these essays inspire you as you prepare to compose your own personal statements. The most important thing to remember is to be original as you share your own story, thoughts, and ideas with us.

Ordering the Disorderly

Ellie’s essay skillfully uses the topic of entropy as an extended metaphor. Through it, we see reflections about who they are and who they aspire to be.

Pack Light, But Be Prepared

In Pablo’s essay, the act of packing for a pilgrimage becomes a metaphor for the way humans accumulate experiences in their life’s journey and what we can learn from them. As we join Pablo through the diverse phases of their life, we gain insights into their character and values.

Tikkun Olam

Julieta illustrates how the concept of Tikkun Olam, “a desire to help repair the world,” has shaped their passions and drives them to pursue experiences at Hopkins.

Kashvi’s essay encapsulates a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and the invaluable teachings of Rock, their 10-year-old dog. Through the lens of their companionship, Kashvi walked us through valuable lessons on responsibility, friendship, patience, and unconditional love.

Classical Reflections in Herstory

Maddie’s essay details their intellectual journey using their love of Greek classics. They incorporate details that reveal the roots of their academic interests: storytelling, literary devices, and translation. As their essay progresses, so do Maddie’s intellectual curiosities.

My Spotify Playlist

Alyssa’s essay reflects on special memories through the creative lens of Spotify playlists. They use three examples to highlight their experiences with their tennis team, finding a virtual community during the pandemic, and co-founding a nonprofit to help younger students learn about STEM.

More essays that worked

We share essays from previously admitted students—along with feedback from our admissions committee—so you can understand what made them effective and how to start crafting your own.

Application Workshops

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