• 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.

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.
• Explain how your point supports your thesis. 

Paragraph 4 (4-6 sentences)

• Use a transition phrase in the first sentence.
• Provide a new point.  You shouldn't repeat a previously stated point.
• Explain how your point supports your thesis. 

Paragraph 5 (2-4 sentences)

• Reinforce how your thesis is correct.