When deciding whether to take the ACT with the writing section, it’s important to weigh both the practical benefits and potential drawbacks in the context of your personal goals and college aspirations.

First, having a writing score can be advantageous in several ways. Many colleges and universities still recommend or require the ACT writing test for admission, especially more competitive or selective institutions. A strong writing score can demonstrate your ability to organize ideas coherently, develop arguments, and articulate thoughts clearly-skills highly valued in college-level coursework across disciplines. Admissions officers often view a well-done writing section not just as a demonstration of English proficiency, but also as evidence of critical thinking and analytical skills. This can enhance your overall application by adding a layer of depth beyond multiple-choice results.

In terms of academic success, proficiency in writing is closely correlated with better performance in college, especially in humanities, social sciences, and even STEM fields where clear communication of complex ideas is essential. The writing section challenges students to construct a well-reasoned essay under time constraints, preparing them for similar demands in college essays, research papers, and exams. So, focusing on writing early can help cultivate important skills like structure, argument development, and synthesis of information.

However, the writing test is not mandatory for all institutions, and some do not consider it a critical part of the application. If your target schools don’t require it or place little emphasis on the score, it may make sense to conserve your energy for other sections where you excel or to focus on standardized tests or components more aligned with your strengths.

On the other hand, it’s true that the addition of a timed essay can add pressure. Student anxiety and burnout are real concerns, and if the writing section detracts from your performance on the English, math, reading, or science sections, it might not be worth the risk. Additionally, if you’re confident in your writing skills and have other opportunities (like AP English exams, writing portfolios, or supplementary essays) to showcase your ability, the ACT writing section may feel redundant.

Finally, consider that writing is a foundational academic skill. Even if the score itself doesn’t dramatically shift your application’s strength, the process and preparation can yield benefits beyond the test. Developing and polishing your writing techniques helps bolster communication, critical analysis, and clarity-essential tools for college success and beyond.

In conclusion, the decision to take the ACT with writing should be informed by your target schools’ requirements, your writing confidence and skills, and your overall testing strategy. For many, including the writing section adds valuable evidence of readiness and can enhance an application-especially at competitive universities. But for others, the additional demands may not justify the benefits. Reflect honestly on your goals, preparation, and priorities to choose the path best aligned with your academic journey.