Step by Step: How to Pass the GED Essay
The Extended Response, or GED essay, can seem scary, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t have to have perfect grammar or a lot of vocabulary to pass. You just need to know what the prompt is asking, put your thoughts in order, and back up your argument with proof.
Even if you’re not good at writing, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to pass the GED essay.
- Know what the GED essay is
The Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) test has the GED essay.
- What You Will Be Asked to Do
- Read two short passages that have different points of view.
- Choose which argument has more evidence to back it up.
- Use evidence from the texts to write an essay that explains why.
You are not asked for your own opinion.
- Find out how the GED essay is graded
There are three parts to the GED essay score:
- Picking the stronger argument is what analysis of arguments is all about.
- Using Evidence—citing facts and examples from the texts
- Organization & Language – clear structure and basic grammar
Even if your grammar isn’t perfect, you can still get points.
- Make good use of the time you have for the GED essay.
You have 45 minutes to write the essay.
- Suggested Time Division
- 10 minutes to read and plan
- 25 minutes—Write
- 10 minutes—Look over and fix
Planning helps you get a better score and saves you time.
- Read the Passages in a Smart Way
When you read:
- Find out what each author is trying to say.
- Show proof (facts, numbers, examples)
- Choose the argument that has more evidence, not the one you like.
GED graders want facts, not opinions.
- Make a Simple Outline for Your Essay
The easiest way to pass is to have a clear structure.
- The Best Way to Write a GED Essay
- Beginning
- Body Paragraph 1 (a strong claim and proof)
- Body Paragraph 2 (why the other point of view is less strong)
- Final Thoughts
Don’t make it too hard.
- Write a Good Introduction
Your introduction should:
- Say a little about both passages.
- Clearly say which argument is better
For example
Both passages talk about whether or not school uniforms should be required. Passage 1 makes a stronger case because it uses clear statistics and expert opinions, while Passage 2 mostly uses personal opinions.
- Use Evidence Properly
This is the most important part of the GED essay.
- How to Use Proof
- Use quotes or paraphrases to talk about facts from the passage.
- Tell me why the proof backs up your choice.
For example
Passage 1 says that schools with uniforms had 20% fewer problems with discipline, which backs up the author’s claim.
Don’t copy big parts word for word.
- Tell us why the other argument is less strong.
Show that you get both sides.
For example
Passage 2 says that uniforms are bad, but it doesn’t give any evidence or studies to back up its claim, which makes it less convincing.
This gets more points for analysis.
- Write a Clear Ending
Your conclusion should:
- Say what you want to say again
- Explain why the chosen argument is better.
Make it short and clear.
- Speak in simple, clear terms
The GED does not need:
❌ Long sentences
❌ Fancy vocabulary Difficult grammar
It does reward:
✔ Clear ideas
✔ Logical flow
✔ Correct basic grammar
- Look it over before sending
Use the last few minutes to:
- Fix spelling mistakes
- Make sure the sentence is clear
- Add the punctuation that is missing
- Take out words that are used more than once
Making small changes can help you get a better score.
12 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a GED Essay
❌ Sharing your own thoughts
❌ Summarizing without breaking it down
❌ Not paying attention to one of the passages
❌ Writing without a plan
❌ Running out of time
- The more you practice, the easier it will be to pass.
Write:
- Timed essays that are short
- Introductions and conclusions
- Paragraphs based on evidence
The more you do it, the better you’ll get at it.
Final Thoughts
To pass the GED essay, you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be organized, clear, and have good evidence. Use this step-by-step method, keep your structure simple, and make sure to back up your point with evidence from the text. You can pass the GED essay with practice and confidence, which will bring you one step closer to getting your GED.
For more GED tips an ways to pass contact us on +1-936-758-1107 or email us
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