how to write a good tsi essay

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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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.

TSI Essay Sample

Below is a high-scoring TSI sample essay for your review. This response is based on our TSI Practice Essay . We recommend that you type your own essay before you read this TSI essay example. Following the sample essay there is a commentary which explains why it would earn a high score.

TSI Sample Essay Commentary

This response would earn a score of 8. Even though the TSI essay is scored holistically (meaning as a whole, not by its parts), let’s look at a detailed explanation of how this essay scored well in each of the essay criteria:

Purpose and focus The writer begins their essay by introducing the problem, that schools are being forced to cut programs that they view as “non-essential.” This idea becomes the basis for the rest of the writer’s essay as they explore all the reasons why art classes should be considered “essential.” They address the problem head on, show that they understand the complexity of the issues, and take a stance. Throughout the essay, the writer uses effective examples to defend art classes, making sure to consistently refer back to the problem: people should value art classes. In the conclusion, the writer admits that core classes are also important (a point that would likely be argued by someone on the opposing side of this issue), but stresses the importance of art classes and even offers some potential solutions that would be acceptable by people on both sides of the argument.

Organization and structure The writer provides a traditional and extremely effective organization to their essay. Their introduction paints a portrait of the problem and offers a clear stance. The body paragraphs each provide a different reason that people should agree with the writer. The conclusion brings the argument to a nice finish with a concession and reaffirmation of the writer’s originally idea. Additionally, the writer uses effective transitions, like “as a matter of fact,” “not only do art classes…,” and “despite the benefits of…” to link their paragraphs together and make their writing fluid and convincing.

Development and support Each body paragraph contains a separate, but related, argument that effectively supports the writer’s main point. While the writer could have been more specific in their examples, they do a good enough job explaining each point that it is still very effective. The writer also varies their examples well, explaining how art classes can nurture innovative thinkers who improve society, how art classes help students with traditional critical thinking skills, and how art classes can help improve the morale and overall happiness of students. Varying their argument as such helps the writer convince even the harshest critics of art programs.

Sentence variety and style The writer uses varied sentence structure to craft a style that is engaging and convincing. The writer uses a very conversational tone to relate to the readers, but also makes sure to use elevated language to show readers that the writer’s opinion is valid and well thought-out.

Mechanical Conventions While this essay response may not be perfect, there are no noticeable mistakes in mechanics or conventions. The writer effectively displays their command of the rules of the English language.

Critical thinking This response displays a high level of critical thinking. The writer looks at several different angles when they approach the problem. For readers who may criticize art classes for being unimportant, the writer explains that independent and divergent thinking is what helps societies grow and develop. For readers who may laud core classes over all else, the writer discusses the critical thinking skills art students must develop and how these skills can be extremely helpful in core classes. The writer even discusses how art classes can help improve the mental health of students. By discussing the problem from many different perspectives, the writer is able to reach more readers and be far more persuasive.

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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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TSIA2 Essay Guide

You’ve been spending late nights and gone days with little sleep answering hundreds, maybe thousands, of practice multiple choice questions preparing you for the TSIA2 test. You think you’ve got the math portion down pretty well, you’ve nailed down the language arts portion, and you’ve read enough reading passages to know these formats and questions by heart.

But then comes the part where multiple choice doesn’t matter, and where studying sometimes doesn’t come into play. It’s more about how you structure, argue, detail, and lay out a position. It also includes having a strategy and being able to think quickly.

Below, we will break down what the TSIA2 essay requires, providing you with some basic information about what to expect, tips to scoring high marks, resources that can help you score well, and sample exemplary essays to review.

What is the TSI Essay?

The essay portion of the TSIA2 will require you to read a short passage on an important and debatable topic. There will then be instructions that include picking a side or point of view and writing a persuasive essay defending your position.

You will be required write approximately 300 to 600 words, scored on the following key areas:

• Organization/Structure: Your paragraphs should be properly set with an introduction, body paragraphs for each main point, and a conclusion. The paper should flow from one idea to another with transitions connecting points and details.
• Purpose/Focus: Stay on topic and ensure you’re clearly addressing the issue at hand. Present your information in a unified and coherent way, writing with passion and not deserting your support for your position.
• Mechanical Conventions: Use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization; display mastery of the English language. Common words should be spelled correctly. Many of the things that were included in the writing section of the ELA exam will be included here.
• Development/Support: Back up your position with evidence and support. Provide examples from the text in your writing and ensure these reinforce your position. Make sure your writing supports your developed thesis statement. Provide clear explanations throughout your writing and include a call to action.
• Sentence Variety and Style :  Vary your word choice. Write in active voice and use strong action verbs while maintaining a consistent point-of-view.
• Critical Thinking: Offer logical arguments that are well-presented, well-reasoned, and well-supported. Present your position in a way that is convincing to the average reader. Use valid supporting strategies, including ethos, logos, and pathos techniques.  

The most important thing to remember about the scoring process is that it’s not about what you argue but rather how you argue. The administrators grading your exam are not going to sit there and penalize you if you take a position that’s not a popular one or that disagrees with their view. If this is a concern you have, you can rest assured that won’t be the issue.

Instead, they will grade you on how you make your case. They want to see that you fully understand the topic and are able to successfully make an argument using proper details and evidence.

Keep these grading areas in mind as you write. You will be given a score from 1 to 8, with 8 being the top score. While there is no time limit for your essay, you will be required to complete it as part of the entire TSIA2 examination.

Steps to Writing the Perfect TSIA2 Essay

Take a deep breath and relax. Many students are intimidated by the essay portion, but it’s not as complex as some make it out to be. You just need to know the basics of what the person grading the essay is looking for and then execute that.

Here, we’ve provided you with seven simple steps to writing the perfect essay. Make sure you read these points thoroughly. We also included examples of model essays to look over so you can better see what a perfect paper will look like prior to submitting it.

1. Do Your Due Diligence Ahead of Time

It’s true that you can’t necessarily study for the essay like you can the math and reading portion; however, you can plan, prepare, and even do practice essays. Part of the planning process includes knowing exactly what the administrators grading your essay are looking for. Review the scoring criteria and know the six factors detailed above that will impact your score.

2. Have a Plan on Time and Length

A common complaint from many students writing an essay is they didn’t get a chance to fully write their paper because they ran out of time. One of the reasons for them running out of time is they were writing too much.

Failing to plan is planning to fail.

In terms of length, the essay is required to be 300 to 600 words. Try to keep it within that range. Some students think that they can get extra points for impressing the evaluator with a 1,000-word argument. This is not the case.

Do your best to keep it within the 300 to 600-word limit and have a plan on how long you are going to spend on each portion prior to moving on. For example, if you have 60 minutes left to write your essay, take 10 minutes to read and possibly re-read the prompt, jotting down notes. Then take another 20 minutes to brainstorm and organize, making an outline and taking out key points from the text that you want to include in your paper.

That gives you 30 minutes to fully write the paper. If you properly organize yourself, you can write this in just 20–25 minutes, giving you five minutes to read it over and ensure you have included everything you need.

While it’s impossible to be able to tell how much time you’ll have left to write following the Language Arts and Math section, be prepared for the possibility of not having much time, especially if you’re a slow test taker. The best way to accomplish this is by doing a practice essay. Have a stopwatch and properly plan your time so you don’t get caught off guard if you only have 45 or 60 minutes left to write your essay.

3. Take Notes and Read Closely

Once you are handed the passage, read the article thoroughly. The administrator will provide you with scratch paper; be sure to use it. As you read, highlight important parts and begin dissecting the key parts as you move along. You should start to get an idea of a direction you will go as you go along.

Another important thing to consider is taking a stance that is easiest to argue. It doesn’t always have to necessarily be one you agree with, but if you can make a better case for one side over the other in your paper, it’s best to go in that direction. Again, remember that the evaluator isn’t grading you on what your opinion on an issue is — they only care about how you make your case and the structure you include.

4. Brainstorm

You’ve read the article, maybe twice. You’ve done your highlighting and made some notes as you read. Now you need to brainstorm what you are going to talk about.

This is where the scratch paper they give you takes on even more importance. For many, making a simple outline of how they want the paper to look like is the perfect technique for structuring your paper. This significantly helps you with step three below, which is organizing and structuring your essay.

Don’t start writing until you’ve written all your thoughts down. On the scratch paper, write your main points and make sub-categories providing details to those points. Most importantly, include evidence from your reading in your outline. This also will help you with organizing your paper, as textual evidence is a critical part of scoring well on your essay.

5. Organize Your Essay

Structure and format is key when laying out your position. Don’t overthink it; in fact, just go back to the days when you learned how to write a five-paragraph essay. When making an argument, it’s a very similar organization. The essay doesn’t necessarily have to be five paragraphs (it can be four, as in the example built throughout these steps), but it will need the structure of an introduction, body paragraphs with each main point being a paragraph of its own, and a conclusion that summarizes your main points.

Begin with a hook that draws the reader in. This can be a quote that stands out in what you read, a glaring and passionate statement that garners attention, or even a question. Finish your introduction by setting up the rest of your paper with a thesis statement, which should be one sentence in which you present your stance and the general reasons for defending it. That being said, don’t overthink your introduction. Keep it short and sweet, no more than a few sentences.

From there, split your paper into paragraphs, with each paragraph highlighting a new point. Within those points, be sure to include details. The administrators want to see evidence and see that you properly use passages and examples from the text in your essay. This can’t be stressed enough. If you fail to include textual evidence, you will be penalized. However, if you can illustrate to the administrator that you can argue your point and use examples from the passage to back up your point, you will be rewarded no matter if the person grading the article agrees with your point or not.

Imagine the following is your essay prompt:

“All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney

“Is a kick in the teeth” really the best thing in the world for you, and can it truly make you a stronger person?

Sample introduction

Sometimes we have to take a step back in order to move two steps forward. Some may think that when we face a “kick in the teeth,” as Walt Disney put it, or are knocked down, it weakens us and we should simply accept defeat and move on with our life. Instead, we should use it as a learning opportunity to elevate ourselves and make us better. When Michael Jordan was left off the varsity basketball team and was recognized as the “second best Jordan” athlete in the family, he didn’t just “shrug it off.” When Abraham Lincoln lost an election and kept getting bad breaks, he didn’t give up. Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln are two perfect examples of people who strengthened themselves after “getting a kick in the teeth.”

This introduction sets up the rest of the essay, which will focus on how Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln both faced troubles in their life and experienced a setback but overcame those obstacles. The thesis statement – the last sentence of the introduction – leads you right into the rest of the paper.

6. Connect Your Ideas with Transitions

Part of the grading criteria is your paper’s flow, or the proper connecting of ideas from start to end. One way to do this is through transitions. Here are some good transitions to use throughout your paper:

• Going from point to point (or idea to idea): First, Second, Next, In addition to, Further, Another…
• Changing directions (counterpointing): However, Even though, While, On the other hand…
• Beginning conclusion: All in all, Clearly, To summarize, In conclusion…

7. Be All In and All About It!

Do not, and we repeat, DO NOT, be 50/50, 70/30, or even 90/10 on a stance. You are 100% in on your position and you don’t stray from it. The grader wants to see that you are committed to an argument and can fully make the case using textual evidence. In the example above, don’t argue how Michael Jordan was able to make himself stronger from not making the varsity team or overcome his father’s death to better himself, but then say, “However, there have been moments where Jordan got a kick in the teeth and gave in.” Once you’ve solidified your position, you are all in.

On top of that, write with passion. Show that you care about what you’re arguing. Ask questions throughout the article that make the reader think. Use effective ethos, pathos, and logos techniques as you move along from start to finish.

8. Recognize the Opposing View

This is the part that a lot of essay writers struggle with: They don’t acknowledge the other side. You need to know the opposing view’s main points, recognize them, and bring them up. Then, you offer counterpoints to demonstrate why your view is stronger and back it up with details.

This is an important part of winning an argument or debate. It illustrates that you are educated on the topic and have thoroughly considered all sides before taking a stance. By making the other side’s point and effectively countering, you are making a positive impression on the administrator reading your essay, displaying that you properly know how to argue an issue.

Here’s a model body paragraph from the sample above about making yourself stronger from a setback.

Abraham Lincoln faced many obstacles and setbacks growing up, but he never gave in. When he was just 22 years old, he started a business that failed. Instead of settling for something less, he tried to do something where he could influence others and got into politics. However, he lost election after election, trying to run for state representative and the U.S. Senate. But Lincoln persevered, learned from his mistakes, and eventually ran for U.S. President and won after never giving up. Additionally, when he was president, he faced major backlash for his positions on slavery and his unwillingness to compromise with the South’s secession. While a compromise with those in opposition was always an option for Lincoln to take, his previous experiences with failure taught him how to persevere, and thus he was able to achieve more for his legacy and the country than he would have without knowing how to face “a kick in the teeth.” His previous challenges were a key factor in knowing how — and why — to overcome the biggest adversity of his life.

In the bold part, the writer introduces the other side, saying that it was possible for Lincoln to avoid conflict by simply “taking his beating” and give in. However, the writer comes back with a counterpoint, saying that because Lincoln didn’t give in and instead persevered, both he and America became stronger in the long run. This counterpoint shows the value of facing and overcoming adversity in a way that would not be possible without addressing the opposing view.

9. Don’t Overthink the Conclusion

This is where you can take a deep breath because you’re almost done. The conclusion should be the easiest part of your paper and the least time-consuming.

Don’t overanalyze it. This can be 50 words or fewer. Simply summarize your argument and restate your thesis. You have the option of finishing it off with an impactful statement that fully makes the paper come full circle. Maybe it ties back into your hook, which is always a good way to impress the reader. 

Here’s an example of a simple and effective conclusion from the model above on Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln becoming stronger from their setbacks:

Clearly, Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln became stronger as a result of their failures. Because of their troubles and obstacles, they used a “kick in the teeth” as a learning experience and a way to make themselves stronger. As a result, they became two of the most influential people in history in sports, politics, and leadership. Jordan and Lincoln both took a step or two back, but took giant leaps forward and taught a lot of people a positive and valuable lesson.

10. Read Your Essay Over

Hopefully, you’ll have enough time left over where you can proofread your essay and check for mistakes. First and foremost, make sure your essay fully answers the prompt. Go through each of the grading criteria and ensure you’ve met each key area.

If you have extra time, you can always do little things to improve your paper, like adding stronger word choice in different areas and adding a good call to action at the end of the paper if you haven’t already.

Final Thoughts and Tips

You shouldn’t be afraid of the essay section. Instead, you should be motivated and excited. No more answering questions with a right or wrong answer. No more reading passage after passage trying to figure out what the main idea is. No more dealing with numbers and answering a bunch of questions that other people wrote. Now, you have control. You have the power. With the essay portion, you get to speak your mind, make your argument, and be convincing. It’s always important to attack the essay with confidence; don’t let the essay attack you.

While all of these tips are important, the most important is to truly have a plan. Go into the essay knowing what you need to do and how you need to accomplish it. By doing that, you have already won half the battle. Get a good night’s sleep and write as if your future depends on it, because, in some ways, it does.

Again, do as much preparation as you can. Read as many model essays as possible, and even do some practice essays. It doesn’t hurt even getting into a debate with a friend on a controversial topic, whether it be through an email or in person, where you practice making main points and backing it up with details. This is always a great way to get in the frame of mind of backing up a point or opinion with facts and proper supporting techniques.

Just remember to be confident and have the mentality the you are going to succeed. Best of luck to you!

Texas Success Initiative

Tsi tips and tricks, planning ahead, to get the best score....

To prepare for the TSIA2 test, please plan to dedicate several hours over a couple of weeks to refresh the math, reading, and writing skills that will be covered on the TSI assessment. Since many of the tested topics are taught as early as middle school, it has  probably been several years since you worked on questions like  these. Setting aside time to refresh your skills and knowledge may  help you get a higher score and ensure you are ready to begin college-level coursework. There are several TSI Assessment preparation resources available to help you prepare below.

First Step!

We w ant you to be successful in your college courses so the TSI test is an i mportant first step. The TSI test will assess your current skill levels in reading, writing, and math. Your TSI test scores will determine which courses you may enroll in at Texas Tech University. If you took the TSI assessment at your high school o r another institution, share your scores with TT U. If you did n ot share your scores with TTU, go to the Accuplacer Student Portal and download a copy of the Individual Score Report (ISR). Once you have a copy of your scores, use your TTU email and email the complete ISR as an attachment to the:

TSI Compliance Office

registrar.t [email protected]

Phone: (806) 834-4150

If you are a new student, you need to complete TSIA2 test BEFORE attending Red Raider Orientation. If you are a returning or transfer student, check with your counselor or advisor about whether or not you need to take (or retake) one or more parts of the TSI test.

Students can retake any portion of the TSIA2 test at any time. The best option is to retest BEORE you attend Red Raider Orientation if you hope to raise your score and reduce the number of TSI support courses you are required to enroll in for the semester.

Second Step! Test Taking Tutorials!

Things you need to know:.

Before you take the placement test, take time to refresh your reading, writing, and math skills so that you can do your very best on your test. You will find lots of helpful information about the placement test on our TTU TSI website . The links below are a quick reference tool if you are short on time to prepare for the TSIA2 test.

Calculator Tips on the TSIA 2 Test - 1 minute video

Calculator Used for TSI2 Test

Highlighter Tips on TSIA 2 Test - 1 minute video

Accessibility Wizard on the TSIA 2 test - 1 minute video

What to Expect on the Math TSIA 2 Test - 4 minute video

Writing an Essay for the TSIA 2 - 15 minute video

Third Step! Take the Test!

Click here for Pre-Assessment Practice Resources

Click here to take the tsi pre-assessment activity - student login, tsia study resources, accuplacer student portal, how to prepare:.

Take advantage of free resources available to improve areas where your academic performance is not the strongest. Access free sample questions similar to those you'll see on the actual test.

Accuplacer Student Portal :

• TSIA2 Study App with practice resources and printable sample questions
• Tutorials showing you how to use the calculator and highlighter tools
• Test results and information about how to send test results to Texas public institutions of higher education
• Test Center Locator

TSIA2 Resource Library :

• Browse by subject area, level, and type of resource.
• On the right side of the page, there is a Welcome box.
• For students taking the assessment for the first time, please click the “Enter Student Site” blue button.
• Students who are retaking the assessment, please enter your Learning Locator Code (found on the diagnostic score report that you received upon completion of your test) for targeted resources based on your test performance.

Student Resources for TSI

Pearson math and elar resources and videos.

Resources to provide additional information for TSIA 2.0 Success

TSIA 2.0 Student Brochure

TSIA 2.0 English Language Arts & Reading Sample Questions

TSIA 2.0 Math Sample Questions

TSIA 2.0 Essay Test Guide

TSIA 2.0 Interpreting Your Score

TSI ELAR Crash Course - Day 1 Part 1 - TSI Reading Practice

TSI ELAR Crash Course - Day 1 Part 2 - TSI Reading Practice

TSI Writing Practice

TSI Essay Practice

TSIA 2 Math Hacks

Mometrix TSI Test Preparation Videos

TSIA 2.0 Test Blueprint and Linked Resources

Need to Schedule TSI exam? 

Texas tech academic testing services.

In order to streamline your appointment and provide a more relaxed testing experience, advanced registration is recommended. However, walk-ins are welcome.

TTU Testing Services

[email protected]

Phone: (806) 742-3671

Location: Room 214 West Hall

To take the TSI Assessment off-campus, go here for a voucher . Read the information provided and complete the Request for an Off-Campus TSI Testing Voucher.

NOTE: In order to avoid a delay in advising and class registration, it is recommended that you take the TSI assessment prior to your first day of orientation. The TSI exam is untimed and may take several hours to complete.

On the day of the exam bring these items with you to 214 West Hall:

• To schedule an appointment for the TSI exam, please contact us at 806-742-3671. You will make a $50.00 (non-refundable) payment to Texas Tech University with credit/debit card (NO CASH) through our online store. An email link will be sent to you. Payment must be made prior to your testing day.
• Appropriate photo ID is required at time of testing (driver's license, passport or other government ID with a current photo).
• Copy of your Pre-Assessment Activity Certificate of completion. Policies and Fees are subject to change.  

For more information regarding TSI Compliance, please visit the TSI Compliance Office website.

Need to Submit Your TSI/TSIA Scores? 

To Submit your TSI Scores from the Accuplacer Portal, please visit How to Access Your Test Scores .

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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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• Last Updated: Jan 5, 2024 12:31 PM
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TSIA2 Scores

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA2) is a standardized test that public Texas colleges use to determine whether you are college ready or not.

There is technically not a passing score, but there are some benchmark scores you will want to reach that will allow you to avoid developmental courses in college.

Summary: We outlined the scoring of the TSI exam. To prepare for the exam, take our free TSI practice exam .

How to Get Your TSI Scores

You receive your TSI scores immediately after the completion of the test. They will send you a score report via email within minutes of your test being complete.

What is a Passing TSI Score?

Technically, there is not a passing TSI score. However, there are cutoff scores that determine whether or not you are college ready.

The TSI has a benchmark called the “college-readiness benchmark” for each section. Here are the scores for each section that you must obtain to be considered college ready:

TSIA2 (After 1/11/21):

• Math: CRC score of 950+ or CRC score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6.
• ELAR: CRC score of 945+ and an essay score of 5+ or CRC score below 945 and a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of 5+.

TSI (Before 1/11/21):

• Math: Score from 350 to 390.
• Reading: Score from 351 to 390.
• Writing: Score of 340+ and an essay score of 4+

If you receive a “college ready score,” you will be placed in a college-level course. If you do not receive a “college ready score,” you may be placed in a developmental course or something similar in nature (pre-requisite course, etc…). You can read more about this on the official PDF .

What If I Don’t Receive A College Ready Score?

You will take the CRC version of the math and ELAR sections first. If you do not receive college ready scores, you will be asked to take the diagnostic test.

The diagnostic tests are used to help place you in appropriate courses based on your academic level. If you are unhappy with your TSIA2 scores, you may retake the exam again. Review our TSI practice tests to prepare for your exam.

What is a Good TSI Score?

A good TSI score is a score of 950+ on the CRC math section and a score of 945+ with an essay score of 5+ on the CRC ELAR section.

If you receive those scores, that means you are college ready and can avoid taking the additional diagnostic exams.

It is important to remember that this exam is used primarily as a placement exam. Schools want to make sure they place you in the appropriate courses so that you are set up for success from the beginning.

TSI Score Exemptions

There are some other exams you can use in place of the TSI. If you received the following scores, you may be exempt from the TSI.

Importance of TSI Scores and How They Are Used

TSI scores are important because they help schools place students in the appropriate courses. This is not only helpful for schools, but also for students. If you are a student and not strong in math, imagine being thrown into an advanced math course and having no idea what you are doing.

The TSIA2 helps avoid this by giving students and schools an honest assessment of where a student stands. TSI scoring helps place students in courses that match their education abilities and sets them up for success.

How to Get a Top TSI Score

Scoring well on the TSIA2 can help you save some time and money by avoiding pre-requisite and developmental courses in college. Here are some tips to scoring well on the exam:

• Take a diagnostic TSI practice exam .
• Pinpoint which subjects give you the most trouble.
• Determine how much time you have to study and create a study plan.
• Dive into those specific subjects that gave you the most trouble.
• Once you feel more comfortable with the material, take another practice exam and see where you stand.

By taking a diagnostic practice exam, you will figure out which subjects gave you the most trouble and can pinpoint where you need to study. This will help make your study process more efficient and save you valuable time.

TSI Score FAQs

What elar score will allow me to take college level courses.

CRC score of 945+ and an essay score of 5+ or CRC score below 945 and a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of 5+.

What math score will allow me to take college level courses?

CRC score of 950+ or CRC score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6.

How long are TSI scores valid for?

TSI scores are valid for 5 years from the day that you took your exam.

Can you retake the TSI if your scores are not “college-level ready”?

Yes, you can retake the TSI as many times as you would like.

How long does it take to get your TSI scores back?

You typically get your TSI scores back immediately.

• Authored By: Dave Evangelisti
• Last Updated August 2, 2023

How to Write a Personal Narrative: A Step-by-Step Guide

“As I sat down to write this article, memories flooded back, each one a brushstroke in the painting of my past…”

That could be the beginning of your personal narrative. Writing it lets you turn your memories and experiences into stories that click with others. This type of writing goes beyond school assignments or essays for college applications; it’s a chance to get really good at sharing your life's events in ways that matter. 

In this article, we're going to explore what personal narratives are all about and guide you through a simple seven-step process to create your own. You’ll learn how to pull out moments that make your story stand out and how to tweak your writing until it’s just right. We’ve got practical examples for you to follow along, making sure you have everything you need to tell your story. 

What is a Personal Narrative?

A personal narrative is a way to tell your own story. It's a style of writing that puts your experiences front and center, inviting readers into your world. Teachers often assign personal narratives to encourage free, expressive writing. 

The personal narrative definition is wider than academic settings, though. . These narratives can also show potential employers who you are beyond your resume. At its core, writing a personal narrative is a form of storytelling, using a first-person perspective to bring real-life tales to life. Whether it's for a grade, a job, or just for fun, it's about getting your story out there.

Your Story, Perfected

Let our experts refine your personal narrative, making sure every detail shines and your story is both clear and impactful.

How to Write a Personal Narrative: Steps

In this section, we'll break down the process into manageable steps, starting with how to zero in on the right topic that speaks about who you are.

Step 1. Choosing a Personal Narrative Topic

The first step in crafting your personal narrative is picking the perfect topic. It should be something meaningful to you, something that has not just happened, but also shaped who you are or has a significant story behind it. Here’s how to frame your personal narrative ideas:

• Story Arc : Your narrative is like a mini-movie. Start with setting the scene, build up to the main event, and wrap up with a reflection. For example, if you’re writing about your first solo travel experience, begin with your initial feelings, describe the challenges you faced, and end with what you learned about yourself.
• Thematic Focus : Instead of moving through time, center your narrative around a central theme. Maybe it’s about resilience, and you could link different times you had to be resilient, ending with a major life challenge.
• A Day to Remember : Sometimes a single day can tell a lot about you. Pick a day that was particularly memorable and unpack it from start to finish. Maybe it was a seemingly ordinary day that brought unexpected lessons or joys.

Step 2. Working on Your Personal Narrative Outline

When putting together your personal narrative, starting with a solid outline can help keep your story on track. Here's how you can lay it all out:

• Introduction: Kick things off with a hook that grabs attention, like an intriguing question or a vivid snapshot of a key moment. Set the scene and introduce the main theme.
• Setting and Characters : Give a good sense of where your story is unfolding and who's involved. Paint a clear picture of the backdrop and the key people.
• Plot Development : Lay out the events in the order they happened, or group them around major themes. Build up to your main event, adding conflicts or challenges as you go.
• Climax : This is the high point of your story, where everything comes to a head. Make it a moment that has the most impact.
• Resolution : Wrap up the main storyline, showing how things settled down after the climax.
• Reflection : Spend some time reflecting on what happened. Share what you learned or how you changed because of the experience.

If you're looking for help crafting your personal narrative, consider checking out some legit essay writing services to get professional guidance.

Step 3. Writing the First Draft of Your Personal Narrative

Now let’s move on to the fun part! Don't worry about getting everything perfect right away — the first draft’s goal is to let your story flow naturally:

• Start with Your Hook: Revisit the introduction you outlined and flesh it out. Begin with the attention-grabbing sentence that will make readers want to continue.
• Let the Story Unfold: Follow your outline, but allow yourself some flexibility. As you write, new memories or details may come to mind. Embrace them! Think about what you saw, heard, and felt during these moments. Were you sitting in a sunlit room, listening to the hum of a busy street outside? Maybe you felt the chill of an autumn breeze? 
• Stay True to Your Voice: This is your story, so let your unique voice shine through. Whether you're humorous, reflective, or serious, maintain a consistent tone that feels authentically you. Keep the tone conversational and straightforward, as if you’re telling this story to a friend. 

Once the first personal narrative draft is done, set it aside for a bit before revisiting it with fresh eyes.

Step 4. Revising Your Personal Narrative

Once the first personal narrative draft is done, set it aside for a bit before revisiting it with fresh eyes:

• Tighten Up the Story : As you go through your draft, focus on making everything clear and to the point. If you’ve talked about how nervous you were before a big event more than once, try to combine those thoughts into one powerful sentence that really captures how you felt.
• Keep Your Tone Consistent : Make sure your voice stays the same throughout the story. If you start off with a casual, conversational tone, like saying, “I couldn’t shake the nerves before my big test,” stick with that style instead of suddenly becoming formal later on.
• Adjust the Pacing : Pay attention to how smoothly your story flows from one part to the next. When you’re describing a key moment, like meeting someone important or going through a major experience, give it the detail and time it deserves. Let those moments develop naturally without rushing.
• Enhance Your Descriptions : Make your imagery more vivid to help the reader visualize your story. For example, instead of just saying, “The room was noisy,” you could say, “The room buzzed with excited chatter.” These small tweaks can make your story feel more alive and engaging.

Step 5. Adding Personal Touches

As you polish your personal narrative, focus on making it uniquely yours. You can include personal reflections on your experiences. For example, if you’re writing about a challenging project, discuss not just the struggle but how it impacted you personally and professionally.

Besides, add unique details that only you can share. Instead of generic descriptions, use specific anecdotes or sensory details, like how the scent of freshly baked cookies from your grandmother's kitchen made you feel nostalgic.

Last but not least, incorporate dialogues or direct quotes from people involved in your story to add authenticity and depth. For instance, if your mentor gave you advice, include their exact words to capture the moment’s impact. This approach will help you understand how to write a personal narrative that is both engaging and deeply personal.

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Step 6: Editing for Clarity and Style

When you’re editing your personal narratives, the goal is to make sure everything flows smoothly and makes sense. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Clarify Your Message: Check for any parts of your story that might be a bit confusing. If you talked about being excited about a project and then suddenly shifted to its challenges, make sure to connect these thoughts clearly. For instance, you might rephrase it as “I was excited about the project, but I soon faced some unexpected challenges, like tight deadlines.”
• Simplify Complex Sentences: Break down long or complicated sentences. Instead of saying, “My enthusiasm for the project, which was incredibly high despite the difficulties I faced, was the driving force behind my perseverance,” you could simplify it to, “Even though the project was tough, my excitement kept me going.”
• Smooth Transitions: Check how your paragraphs and sections flow together. If you jump from describing a problem to the solution without a clear link, add a transition. For example, “After struggling with the project’s challenges, I realized that asking my mentor for help was the key to overcoming the obstacles.”

Oh, and read your narrative out loud. This can help you spot any awkward phrases or spots where the story might be a bit choppy. It’s a great way to catch any issues and make those final tweaks to get everything just right.

Personal Narrative Prompts

Here are ten personal narrative prompts to get you thinking about different moments in your life:

Need more tips on how to get started? Check out this guide on how to start a narrative essay to kick off your writing with a strong opening.

Personal Narrative Examples

Here are a few personal narrative beginnings to spark your creativity. These snippets are designed to get you started and inspire your own storytelling.

Wrapping Up

As you finish up your story, think about how those moments shaped who you are today. It's not just about what happened, but how it changed you. When learning how to write a personal narrative, it’s important to focus on the moments that truly matter to you and tell them in your own voice. This way, your narrative can really connect with others. 

Remember, the best stories come straight from the heart, so trust yourself and let your experiences shine through!

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Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• The New York Times. (2020, January 7). Personal Narrative Essay Winners. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/07/learning/personal-narrative-essay-winners.html

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