Hey guys, I am wondering what the average ACT writing score is and what would be considered a good score? I want to improve this section and set a goal for myself, so any insight would be helpful.
A good ACT writing score can vary depending on the schools you're interested in, but let's take a quick look at the scoring system and percentiles to help you set a goal.
The ACT writing test is assessed on a scale of 2-12. Two essay graders assess your essay and assign a score, each from 1-6. These scores are then combined for your final writing score. Average writing scores typically fluctuate around 6.5-7 out of 12. However, the percentiles can provide a clearer picture of what constitutes a "good" score:
- A score of 8 corresponds to the 59th percentile.
- A score of 9 corresponds to the 77th percentile.
- A score of 10 corresponds to the 89th percentile.
For most colleges, a score of 8 or higher would be considered solid. However, if you're aiming for schools with more competitive admissions, shooting for a 9 or 10 might be a more suitable goal.
Keep in mind that while the writing score is unlikely to make or break your application, having a strong score can be one thing that helps you stand out in a pool of applicants with similar backgrounds and test scores. To improve your score, practice writing clear and logical arguments, use concrete examples, and pay close attention to your organization and grammar. Good luck!
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