These HiSET writing essay examples show you what a clear argument looks like and what weakens one. You will find a practice prompt, a strong sample, a weak sample and a template you can use again and again.
We wrote these samples ourselves. They have not been officially scored, so use them to learn the differences rather than to predict a score. The official scoring guide and samples are on HiSET.org.
How the HiSET Essay Works
The essay is part of the Language Arts Writing test, which is reported as 60 multiple-choice questions and one essay in 120 minutes. The time is shared, so you must decide how to divide it. The official scoring guide uses a scale of 1 to 6 and describes the task as writing an argument on a given topic.
You need at least 2 out of 6 on the essay to pass. Remember that you also need at least 8 out of 20 on each subtest and at least 45 in total. A strong essay helps your Writing score, which can help you reach that total.
Your prompt may include reading material on the topic. If it does, use evidence from it. Check the official HiSET sample materials so you know what to expect.
A Practice Prompt
Here is an original prompt to practice with:
Some people believe that cities should offer free public transportation for everyone. Others believe that riders should pay fares to cover the cost. Write an essay explaining your position. Use reasons and examples to support your view.
A Stronger Sample Essay
Getting to work, school or the doctor should not depend on how much money a person has. Although free public transportation would cost taxpayers money, cities should offer it because it would help workers, reduce traffic and benefit the local economy.
First, free transportation would help people who struggle to pay for travel. A worker earning a low wage might spend a large share of each paycheck on bus fare. If that cost disappeared, the worker could use the money for food or rent. People could also look for jobs farther from home, since distance would no longer be such a barrier.
Second, free transportation could reduce traffic. When buses and trains cost nothing, some drivers may decide to leave their cars at home. Fewer cars would mean shorter commutes and cleaner air. Everyone would gain from this change, including those who continue to drive.
Third, local businesses would benefit. Riders who save money on fares have more to spend in their communities. A person who can reach downtown for free may be more likely to shop or eat there.
Some people argue that free transportation is too expensive and that riders should pay for what they use. This concern is reasonable, because buses and drivers cost money. However, cities already spend public money on roads, which drivers use without paying each time. Public transportation deserves the same support.
In conclusion, free public transportation would help workers, reduce traffic and support local businesses. Although it requires public funding, the benefits would reach the whole community. For these reasons, cities should make it free.
Why This Essay Works
- Clear position: The first paragraph states the writer's view.
- Organized reasons: Each body paragraph has one main point, with words like "first" and "second" to guide the reader.
- Specific support: It explains how a worker or a shopper would benefit.
- Addresses the other side: It admits that cost is a real concern and then responds to it.
- Clean writing: It uses varied sentences and few errors.
A Weaker Sample Essay
I think buses should be free because alot of people dont have money. Buses are good and everybody should use them. My cousin takes the bus. It is always late and it makes me mad. Also cars are bad. The city has money so they can pay for it. Thats why buses should be free.
Why This Essay Is Weak
- Little development: The reasons are stated but not explained.
- Off-topic details: The late bus does not support the writer's position.
- Unsupported claims: "Cars are bad" and "the city has money" come without any reasons.
- No organization: There are no separate paragraphs and no clear conclusion.
- Errors: Mistakes like "alot" and "dont" distract the reader.
The writer does have a position, and that is a start. To improve, the writer needs to explain each reason and give an example.
A Simple HiSET Essay Template
Use this structure until it becomes automatic.
- Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your position in one clear sentence.
- Body paragraph 1: Give your strongest reason and explain it with an example or evidence.
- Body paragraph 2: Give a second reason and support it the same way.
- Body paragraph 3: Give a third reason, or respond to the other side.
- Conclusion: Restate your position in new words and sum up your reasons.
How to Plan Your Time
Try this plan for a typical essay. Adjust it as you practice.
- Plan for about 5 minutes. Choose a position and jot down three reasons.
- Write for about 30 to 35 minutes. Use your outline and keep moving.
- Check for about 5 minutes. Fix spelling, punctuation and missing words.
Decide whether you want to do the essay first or the multiple-choice questions first, then practice that order. Watch the clock either way, because the time is shared.
Practice Tips
- Write several full essays under time pressure. Reading about essays is not enough.
- Choose the side you can support best. You do not have to believe in it personally.
- Get feedback. Someone else can spot errors you do not see.
- Practice in the format you will use. Type if you will test on a computer, or handwrite if you will test on paper.
Next Steps
Our HiSET prep includes practice across all five subtests. Our HiSET exam prep guide explains scoring and coaching in more detail. You can compare options on the pricing page.
You write the real essay yourself, under the official rules. To begin, order HiSET prep online or call or WhatsApp +1 (217) 426-5403.