Forty mediocre sample essays are analyzed, improved, and scored to help students recognize what graders look for and understand how to improve their own writing while three full practice tests are accompanied by complete explanations of each answer.

In a detailed question-and-answer section, top tutors and former SAT graders share their thoughts on what they like to see in an essay and give advice on creating the strongest piece. A basic overview of grammar and vocabulary and handy writing shortcuts are included as well as a new section on how to prepare when students only have a month to study.