Editing by Amanda

Writing Tip #2

If you’re writing an essay during the SAT Writing Exam and you’re discussing something that happened in your own life, it’s OK to elaborate, exaggerate, and modify. During the SAT test, if you’re writing a reflection, an opinion piece, or a personal essay with YOU as the subject, you don’t have to stick to the cold, hard facts. People often worry during the SAT exam that they shouldn’t “make stuff up” about their feelings or experiences. I mean, don’t tell the graders that you are Paris Hilton or Hugh Hefner, but do embellish you own story if it adds to your piece. On the SAT Writing Exam, if you want to talk about how your grandmother taught you how to build igloos or about how you can juggle live lobsters, you can do that. Even if it isn’t necessarily true.

NOTE: This does not apply to cover letters, resumes, bios, or interview materials. Never elaborate your background for a potential employer. If you have questions about this, please do not hesitate to ask.