141Acknowledging the counter argument
Sure, you can give a nod to the counter argument, but briefly and succinctly. Spend your time proving yourself
right, not focusing on what the opposing side will use against you.
ExamplesStudents normally don’t freak out about finding a point of view, they freak out about finding examples to
support that point of view. The biggest fear I hear is, What if I can’t think of anything? The most common
justification for a low essay score: I spent 10 minutes just sitting there trying to think of an example!
A legitimate fear, and an even more legitimate excuse, until I tell you that the trick is to have your examples
prepared beforehand. It is your job to come up with 3 history examples, 3 current events, 3 literature examples,
and 3 personal experiences. Add some anecdotes and perhaps some examples from pop culture, art, or music to
the mix and you have about 15 examples from which to choose. Trust me, 2 of those examples will be applicable
to whatever essay question ETS asks. That cuts 10 minutes of brainstorming down to 2.
When I say, come up with your examples beforehand, I mean know these examples inside out. Research them,
know the key players involved, think about what theses you could apply these examples to. For instance, the
global response to the tsunami in Japan can be used to support the idea that people have a responsibility for
not only their communities but also for the world at large. It could support an essay debating man vs. nature; it
could even support the claim that adversity is necessary and in the long run beneficial.
When researching your examples from literature use Spark Notes or CliffsNotes. Read all the CliffsNotes;
reacquaint yourself with the characters, the plot, the themes. Memorize the information you have gathered.
Once you have collected your examples, pick several essay questions from the Official Guide or the College Board
website and write a paragraph for each of these examples. Practice leads to perfection! Or at least a score of 10.
To Agree or Not To Agree ......................................................................
To agree or to disagree
One is not better than the other, as long as you pick a side and prove it. Don’t waver. If you agree, agree
wholeheartedly. If you disagree, fight for your opinion.
Typically, we will read the question and our mind immediately answers, “Ah, yes, I agree,” or “Oh no, that’s
the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard.” Don’t let your mind dictate your answer to the question, let your examples.
Brainstorm your examples first. If your strongest examples support the argument, then agree. Disagree if your
best examples don’t support the argument.
Note: Sometimes, it is helpful to disagree with a statement that you actually agree with.
This approach seems counterintuitive, but often leads to clearer, more persuasive and
well-supported essays. Reason being, not only are you trying to convince other people of
your opinion, but you are also trying to convince yourself. Students end up with fewer holes
in their essays, because they haven’t made any assumptions. Disagreeing with yourself
slows your brain down so that you move from point to point more carefully.