What should I aim for in the ACT Writing section?

I’m doing alright in my ACT prep, but the writing section has me worried. Could someone who’s done well in this part share what an average or good score looks like?

Understandably, the ACT Writing section can cause some concern due to its subjective nature. It's good to aim as high as possible within your own capabilities, but for perspective, the ACT Writing test scores range from 2 to 12. A score of 8 (which is the median) is quite solid, while anything above a 9 can be considered above average.

However, it's essential to recognize that the importance of the Writing score can vary considerably from school to school. Some colleges place significant weight on a strong essay, while others consider it less than the composite ACT score. If the schools you are targeting require or recommend the ACT writing test, check their admissions websites for more detailed information. It can also be beneficial to practice by writing essays on different prompts within the given time frame, focusing on creating a coherent argument with clear organization and solid examples.

Don’t be discouraged if you find it difficult at the start; like any skill, it improves with practice. Lastly, remember to review the official ACT Writing scoring rubric to understand the criteria upon which your essay will be evaluated!