essay prompts tsi

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Take our Free TSI Writing Practice Test (2024)

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• How it Works

The TSI Assessment (TSIA) is a college readiness assessment that is part of the Texas Success Initiative program. This program seeks to measure if candidates are ready to enter directly into college-level subjects, in the areas of writing, reading, and math.

Take a look at our free TSI writing practice test. We created our TSI writing questions to be in keeping with the questions that feature on the Texas Success Initiative Assessment. Take our free TSI writing practice test today and find out what your writing strengths and weaknesses are.

Free TSI Writing Practice Test

All information about the tsi assessment in writing.

The TSI Assessment in writing has a multiple-choice section and an essay part.

The multiple-choice section

The multiple-choice section on the TSI Assessment in writing is designed to assess your skill level in relation to the four topics seen below. There are about 20 questions on the TSI placement test and 10-12 questions in each section of the TSI diagnostic test.

• Essay Revision measures your ability to demonstrate coherence, organization, and correct word selection. It also assesses your ability to use rhetorical methods well and to use evidence.
• Agreement looks at how well you use subject-verb agreement and pronoun agreement. It also tests your capacity to use verb tenses.
• Sentence Structure measures your knowledge of subjects including run-on sentences and comma splices; fragments and parallelism; improper punctuation; and coordination and subordination.
• Sentence Logic measures your ability to correctly use modifying clauses and phrases and looks at how well you use transitions.

Essay Section

In this section, you may be asked to construct a five-paragraph (250-500 words essay), which adopts the persuasive form. You may be told to write on a current or controversial topic or issue. You will need to clearly put forward your main idea and give specific examples to back up this main idea. You will also need to make sure you stick to the conventions of standard English. You will not be allowed to use resources such as a dictionary. You can, however, use plain scratch paper to draft and/or plan out your essay.

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About Prepterminal’s TSI Prep Course

If you want to prove to others and to yourself that you are ready to enter directly into college-level courses you’ll need to ace your TSI exam. And, the best way to do this is by preparing for your exam beforehand using Prepterminal’s practice materials. Check out our free TSI guide, with an extensive overview of the TSI exam. And, why not try out our other TSI practice tests, including our math quiz, and reading quiz.

At Prepterminal, we have also carefully developed a total online TSI Prep Course to help you maximize your TSI test score. This Prep Course will give you all the information you require to ace your TSI exam. Our Prep Course features both video and written course modules to make sure that you remain engaged while you study. Prepare for your test with ease with Prepterminal.

Make sure that you start college the right way, by taking college-level subjects. Start preparing for your TSI test with Prepterminal and watch your TSI testing score greatly improve.

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Hey, welcome to our actionable Texas Success Initiative Course page. I’m Michael, PrepTerminal’s Texas Success Initiative Course in-house expert. I am here to assist you with any queries about the Texas Success Initiative Course. Don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected] .

TSIA2 Test Prep

• About the Test

TSIA Practice Test

• TSIA2 Practice Tests - Accuplacer Once you've created an account, you'll have access to TSIA2 practice tests resembling actual tests.

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Tips and strategies.

• 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.

Essay Guidelines

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.

Paragraph 4 (4-6 sentences)

Paragraph 5 (2-4 sentences).

• Reinforce how your thesis is correct.
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TSI Practice Test

If you need help studying for the TSI test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.

Click below to take a free TSI practice test!

Subject-Specific Practice Tests

If you need some extra practice in a specific subject, click one of the subjects below to get started on a subject-specific TSI practice test.

What’s on the TSI Test?

Before we look at the specifics of the TSI test, it’s important to note that there are two different versions of the test you may have to take: the CRC test and the diagnostic test.

CRC vs. Diagnostic

The test you’re given first is called the College Readiness Classification (CRC) test. This is used to determine whether you’re ready for college-level reading, writing, and math. If you don’t perform well on a section of this test, you’ll be given that section again via a second test called the diagnostic test. This test contains slightly more detailed questions that are designed to pinpoint your specific weak points.

TSI Test Outline

The CRC version of the TSI test contains 50 questions and is split into two main parts: English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) and Mathematics.

The reading-focused questions are designed to test how well you comprehend and analyze what you read, while the writing-focused questions are designed to test how well you can revise and edit sentences, paragraphs, and essays.

In addition to these 30 multiple-choice questions, you will be asked to write an essay. The essay portion requires you to write 300-600 words in response to a given prompt. The whole point of the essay is to show how well you grasp the following qualities:

• Purpose and focus
• Organization and structure
• Development and support
• Sentence variety and style
• Mechanical conventions
• Critical thinking
• Quantitative reasoning
• Algebraic reasoning
• Geometric and spatial reasoning
• Probabilistic and statistical reasoning

It’s important to note that you will not be able to use a handheld calculator on this section of the test. A built-in calculator will pop up on the screen for some more difficult questions.

The diagnostic version of the test contains 48 multiple-choice questions per section and covers the same topics as the CRC test.

How to Register

To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to contact the college you’re planning to attend to (or the one you’re already enrolled in). Each school has its own set of requirements and processes for registration.

TSI Study Guide and Flashcards

Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.

Once you have completed the test, the hard part is over!

The multiple-choice questions for the ELAR and Math sections of the CRC test are scored on a scale of 310 to 990, and the essay is scored on a scale of 1 to 8. For the diagnostic test, all sections are scored on a scale of 1 to 6.

On your score report, which you should receive as soon as you finish the test, you’ll find one of the following three score levels:

• Basic: you need significant improvement in the subject area
• Proficient there’s some room for improvement in the content area
• Advanced you’ve shown exemplary skills in the content area

These are the college readiness benchmarks for the TSI test:

For the ELAR section, you need a CRC score between 945 and 990. You also need a score of at least 5 on the essay.

If your CRC score is below 945, you’ll need to take the diagnostic test and score at least a 5 on both the multiple-choice section and the essay.

For the Math section, you need a CRC score between 950 and 990.

If your CRC score is below 950, you’ll need to take the diagnostic test and get a score of at least 6.

Online TSI Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online TSI prep course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The TSI course includes:

• Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• 1,250+ TSI Practice Questions
• More than 500 Digital Flashcards
• Over 220 Instructional Videos
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The TSI prep course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their TSI exam. Click below to check it out!

What is TSI?

TSI is the Texas Success Initiative, which is a program mandated by the law to assist Texas public schools in determining whether students are ready for introductory college courses.

How many questions are on the TSI?

There are 50 multiple-choice questions on the CRC version of the TSI test. The diagnostic test contains 48 questions per section.

How can you be exempt from the TSI test?

You may be exempt from the TSI test (or just one section) if you meet other college readiness benchmarks via other standardized tests, like the ACT or SAT.

How long is the TSI test?

The TSI is actually not a timed test! Some schools recommend 2 hours for the writing questions and 1 hour for the reading and math questions.

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TSIA2 Essay Guide

You’ve been spending late nights and gone days with little sleep answering hundreds, maybe thousands, of practice multiple choice questions preparing you for the TSIA2 test. You think you’ve got the math portion down pretty well, you’ve nailed down the language arts portion, and you’ve read enough reading passages to know these formats and questions by heart.

But then comes the part where multiple choice doesn’t matter, and where studying sometimes doesn’t come into play. It’s more about how you structure, argue, detail, and lay out a position. It also includes having a strategy and being able to think quickly.

Below, we will break down what the TSIA2 essay requires, providing you with some basic information about what to expect, tips to scoring high marks, resources that can help you score well, and sample exemplary essays to review.

What is the TSI Essay?

The essay portion of the TSIA2 will require you to read a short passage on an important and debatable topic. There will then be instructions that include picking a side or point of view and writing a persuasive essay defending your position.

You will be required write approximately 300 to 600 words, scored on the following key areas:

• Organization/Structure: Your paragraphs should be properly set with an introduction, body paragraphs for each main point, and a conclusion. The paper should flow from one idea to another with transitions connecting points and details.
• Purpose/Focus: Stay on topic and ensure you’re clearly addressing the issue at hand. Present your information in a unified and coherent way, writing with passion and not deserting your support for your position.
• Mechanical Conventions: Use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization; display mastery of the English language. Common words should be spelled correctly. Many of the things that were included in the writing section of the ELA exam will be included here.
• Development/Support: Back up your position with evidence and support. Provide examples from the text in your writing and ensure these reinforce your position. Make sure your writing supports your developed thesis statement. Provide clear explanations throughout your writing and include a call to action.
• Sentence Variety and Style :  Vary your word choice. Write in active voice and use strong action verbs while maintaining a consistent point-of-view.
• Critical Thinking: Offer logical arguments that are well-presented, well-reasoned, and well-supported. Present your position in a way that is convincing to the average reader. Use valid supporting strategies, including ethos, logos, and pathos techniques.  

The most important thing to remember about the scoring process is that it’s not about what you argue but rather how you argue. The administrators grading your exam are not going to sit there and penalize you if you take a position that’s not a popular one or that disagrees with their view. If this is a concern you have, you can rest assured that won’t be the issue.

Instead, they will grade you on how you make your case. They want to see that you fully understand the topic and are able to successfully make an argument using proper details and evidence.

Keep these grading areas in mind as you write. You will be given a score from 1 to 8, with 8 being the top score. While there is no time limit for your essay, you will be required to complete it as part of the entire TSIA2 examination.

Steps to Writing the Perfect TSIA2 Essay

Take a deep breath and relax. Many students are intimidated by the essay portion, but it’s not as complex as some make it out to be. You just need to know the basics of what the person grading the essay is looking for and then execute that.

Here, we’ve provided you with seven simple steps to writing the perfect essay. Make sure you read these points thoroughly. We also included examples of model essays to look over so you can better see what a perfect paper will look like prior to submitting it.

1. Do Your Due Diligence Ahead of Time

It’s true that you can’t necessarily study for the essay like you can the math and reading portion; however, you can plan, prepare, and even do practice essays. Part of the planning process includes knowing exactly what the administrators grading your essay are looking for. Review the scoring criteria and know the six factors detailed above that will impact your score.

2. Have a Plan on Time and Length

A common complaint from many students writing an essay is they didn’t get a chance to fully write their paper because they ran out of time. One of the reasons for them running out of time is they were writing too much.

Failing to plan is planning to fail.

In terms of length, the essay is required to be 300 to 600 words. Try to keep it within that range. Some students think that they can get extra points for impressing the evaluator with a 1,000-word argument. This is not the case.

Do your best to keep it within the 300 to 600-word limit and have a plan on how long you are going to spend on each portion prior to moving on. For example, if you have 60 minutes left to write your essay, take 10 minutes to read and possibly re-read the prompt, jotting down notes. Then take another 20 minutes to brainstorm and organize, making an outline and taking out key points from the text that you want to include in your paper.

That gives you 30 minutes to fully write the paper. If you properly organize yourself, you can write this in just 20–25 minutes, giving you five minutes to read it over and ensure you have included everything you need.

While it’s impossible to be able to tell how much time you’ll have left to write following the Language Arts and Math section, be prepared for the possibility of not having much time, especially if you’re a slow test taker. The best way to accomplish this is by doing a practice essay. Have a stopwatch and properly plan your time so you don’t get caught off guard if you only have 45 or 60 minutes left to write your essay.

3. Take Notes and Read Closely

Once you are handed the passage, read the article thoroughly. The administrator will provide you with scratch paper; be sure to use it. As you read, highlight important parts and begin dissecting the key parts as you move along. You should start to get an idea of a direction you will go as you go along.

Another important thing to consider is taking a stance that is easiest to argue. It doesn’t always have to necessarily be one you agree with, but if you can make a better case for one side over the other in your paper, it’s best to go in that direction. Again, remember that the evaluator isn’t grading you on what your opinion on an issue is — they only care about how you make your case and the structure you include.

4. Brainstorm

You’ve read the article, maybe twice. You’ve done your highlighting and made some notes as you read. Now you need to brainstorm what you are going to talk about.

This is where the scratch paper they give you takes on even more importance. For many, making a simple outline of how they want the paper to look like is the perfect technique for structuring your paper. This significantly helps you with step three below, which is organizing and structuring your essay.

Don’t start writing until you’ve written all your thoughts down. On the scratch paper, write your main points and make sub-categories providing details to those points. Most importantly, include evidence from your reading in your outline. This also will help you with organizing your paper, as textual evidence is a critical part of scoring well on your essay.

5. Organize Your Essay

Structure and format is key when laying out your position. Don’t overthink it; in fact, just go back to the days when you learned how to write a five-paragraph essay. When making an argument, it’s a very similar organization. The essay doesn’t necessarily have to be five paragraphs (it can be four, as in the example built throughout these steps), but it will need the structure of an introduction, body paragraphs with each main point being a paragraph of its own, and a conclusion that summarizes your main points.

Begin with a hook that draws the reader in. This can be a quote that stands out in what you read, a glaring and passionate statement that garners attention, or even a question. Finish your introduction by setting up the rest of your paper with a thesis statement, which should be one sentence in which you present your stance and the general reasons for defending it. That being said, don’t overthink your introduction. Keep it short and sweet, no more than a few sentences.

From there, split your paper into paragraphs, with each paragraph highlighting a new point. Within those points, be sure to include details. The administrators want to see evidence and see that you properly use passages and examples from the text in your essay. This can’t be stressed enough. If you fail to include textual evidence, you will be penalized. However, if you can illustrate to the administrator that you can argue your point and use examples from the passage to back up your point, you will be rewarded no matter if the person grading the article agrees with your point or not.

Imagine the following is your essay prompt:

“All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney

“Is a kick in the teeth” really the best thing in the world for you, and can it truly make you a stronger person?

Sample introduction

Sometimes we have to take a step back in order to move two steps forward. Some may think that when we face a “kick in the teeth,” as Walt Disney put it, or are knocked down, it weakens us and we should simply accept defeat and move on with our life. Instead, we should use it as a learning opportunity to elevate ourselves and make us better. When Michael Jordan was left off the varsity basketball team and was recognized as the “second best Jordan” athlete in the family, he didn’t just “shrug it off.” When Abraham Lincoln lost an election and kept getting bad breaks, he didn’t give up. Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln are two perfect examples of people who strengthened themselves after “getting a kick in the teeth.”

This introduction sets up the rest of the essay, which will focus on how Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln both faced troubles in their life and experienced a setback but overcame those obstacles. The thesis statement – the last sentence of the introduction – leads you right into the rest of the paper.

6. Connect Your Ideas with Transitions

Part of the grading criteria is your paper’s flow, or the proper connecting of ideas from start to end. One way to do this is through transitions. Here are some good transitions to use throughout your paper:

• Going from point to point (or idea to idea): First, Second, Next, In addition to, Further, Another…
• Changing directions (counterpointing): However, Even though, While, On the other hand…
• Beginning conclusion: All in all, Clearly, To summarize, In conclusion…

7. Be All In and All About It!

Do not, and we repeat, DO NOT, be 50/50, 70/30, or even 90/10 on a stance. You are 100% in on your position and you don’t stray from it. The grader wants to see that you are committed to an argument and can fully make the case using textual evidence. In the example above, don’t argue how Michael Jordan was able to make himself stronger from not making the varsity team or overcome his father’s death to better himself, but then say, “However, there have been moments where Jordan got a kick in the teeth and gave in.” Once you’ve solidified your position, you are all in.

On top of that, write with passion. Show that you care about what you’re arguing. Ask questions throughout the article that make the reader think. Use effective ethos, pathos, and logos techniques as you move along from start to finish.

8. Recognize the Opposing View

This is the part that a lot of essay writers struggle with: They don’t acknowledge the other side. You need to know the opposing view’s main points, recognize them, and bring them up. Then, you offer counterpoints to demonstrate why your view is stronger and back it up with details.

This is an important part of winning an argument or debate. It illustrates that you are educated on the topic and have thoroughly considered all sides before taking a stance. By making the other side’s point and effectively countering, you are making a positive impression on the administrator reading your essay, displaying that you properly know how to argue an issue.

Here’s a model body paragraph from the sample above about making yourself stronger from a setback.

Abraham Lincoln faced many obstacles and setbacks growing up, but he never gave in. When he was just 22 years old, he started a business that failed. Instead of settling for something less, he tried to do something where he could influence others and got into politics. However, he lost election after election, trying to run for state representative and the U.S. Senate. But Lincoln persevered, learned from his mistakes, and eventually ran for U.S. President and won after never giving up. Additionally, when he was president, he faced major backlash for his positions on slavery and his unwillingness to compromise with the South’s secession. While a compromise with those in opposition was always an option for Lincoln to take, his previous experiences with failure taught him how to persevere, and thus he was able to achieve more for his legacy and the country than he would have without knowing how to face “a kick in the teeth.” His previous challenges were a key factor in knowing how — and why — to overcome the biggest adversity of his life.

In the bold part, the writer introduces the other side, saying that it was possible for Lincoln to avoid conflict by simply “taking his beating” and give in. However, the writer comes back with a counterpoint, saying that because Lincoln didn’t give in and instead persevered, both he and America became stronger in the long run. This counterpoint shows the value of facing and overcoming adversity in a way that would not be possible without addressing the opposing view.

9. Don’t Overthink the Conclusion

This is where you can take a deep breath because you’re almost done. The conclusion should be the easiest part of your paper and the least time-consuming.

Don’t overanalyze it. This can be 50 words or fewer. Simply summarize your argument and restate your thesis. You have the option of finishing it off with an impactful statement that fully makes the paper come full circle. Maybe it ties back into your hook, which is always a good way to impress the reader. 

Here’s an example of a simple and effective conclusion from the model above on Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln becoming stronger from their setbacks:

Clearly, Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln became stronger as a result of their failures. Because of their troubles and obstacles, they used a “kick in the teeth” as a learning experience and a way to make themselves stronger. As a result, they became two of the most influential people in history in sports, politics, and leadership. Jordan and Lincoln both took a step or two back, but took giant leaps forward and taught a lot of people a positive and valuable lesson.

10. Read Your Essay Over

Hopefully, you’ll have enough time left over where you can proofread your essay and check for mistakes. First and foremost, make sure your essay fully answers the prompt. Go through each of the grading criteria and ensure you’ve met each key area.

If you have extra time, you can always do little things to improve your paper, like adding stronger word choice in different areas and adding a good call to action at the end of the paper if you haven’t already.

Final Thoughts and Tips

You shouldn’t be afraid of the essay section. Instead, you should be motivated and excited. No more answering questions with a right or wrong answer. No more reading passage after passage trying to figure out what the main idea is. No more dealing with numbers and answering a bunch of questions that other people wrote. Now, you have control. You have the power. With the essay portion, you get to speak your mind, make your argument, and be convincing. It’s always important to attack the essay with confidence; don’t let the essay attack you.

While all of these tips are important, the most important is to truly have a plan. Go into the essay knowing what you need to do and how you need to accomplish it. By doing that, you have already won half the battle. Get a good night’s sleep and write as if your future depends on it, because, in some ways, it does.

Again, do as much preparation as you can. Read as many model essays as possible, and even do some practice essays. It doesn’t hurt even getting into a debate with a friend on a controversial topic, whether it be through an email or in person, where you practice making main points and backing it up with details. This is always a great way to get in the frame of mind of backing up a point or opinion with facts and proper supporting techniques.

Just remember to be confident and have the mentality the you are going to succeed. Best of luck to you!

Writing the TSI Essay: Strategies for Success

Writing a persuasive essay isn’t difficult, but writing an effective one does require thought and strategy. And when there’s some pressure to write that essay, like when students are writing a persuasive essay for the TSI, it can be even harder to think on the fly.

Many Texas high school students will take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test to evaluate their essential reading, writing, and math skills to ensure they’re prepared to succeed in freshman-level dual credit or college courses.

While writing a successful TSI essay or five-paragraph persuasive essay for English classes is much different than writing a successful personal statement, statement of purpose , or supplemental essay (the writing topics I normally cover), I thought this topic was worth discussing.

In this post, we’ll explore what the TSI persuasive essay is , how your essay is evaluated , and the strategies you can implement to achieve your desired score. I’ll also give you some links to sample TSI essays, responses, and other resources . 

About the TSI Essay

For the essay portion of the TSI, you’ll receive a random essay prompt, which consists of:

• A short passage to read that’s based on an important issue
• Instructions for picking a point of view to support and then writing a persuasive essay on that point of view

You’ll need to write a roughly 500- to 600-word persuasive essay with four to five paragraphs (an opening, a closing, and three body paragraphs). The TSI is an untimed test, so you have as much time as you need. Don’t rush. Take your time and be thoughtful about your answer, even if you’d rather be anywhere than taking the test.

The TSI doesn't expect you to have any particular knowledge to answer the prompt (e.g., the prompt won’t assume you’ve read a certain book or have detailed knowledge of an event). Instead, the topic will require you to pick a side of a debatable topic/current event and then defend that side. Keep in mind that the chosen issue doesn’t have a right or wrong answer, so you won’t be judged on the position you take. 

How You’ll Be Evaluated on the TSI Essay

Reviewers will evaluate your essay on these six factors, according to Mometrix Test Preparation :

• Purpose and focus. Is the information you're presenting unified, coherent, and cohesive? Do you address the issue and your position clearly? Do you keep with that position?
• Organization and structure. Are your ideas and paragraphs connected in an orderly, logical fashion? Does your organization result in a clear path from one point to another? 
• Development and support. Have you developed your Ideas? Do your statements support your thesis and build upon one another, leading to a clearly developed statement or call to action? Do you give examples, explanations, and definitions? Does this supporting text help convince the reader?
• Sentence variety and style. Are your sentences and paragraphs exhibiting control of vocabulary, voice, and structure? Do you use strong action verbs and a varied word choice? Are you using active voice and writing using the same person (I)?
• Mechanical conventions. Do the ideas you express show an understanding of standard English conventions (proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, and more – all the things you were tested on in the Writing Test section of the TSI).
• Critical thinking. Does your point of view demonstrate an understanding of the relationship that exists between ideas? Are you expressing thoughts that are well-reasoned and supported? Do you clearly identify and support your point of view? Are your arguments logical enough to convince the reader of your position?

Scoring the TSI Essay: What You're Aiming for

You’ll receive a score of 1-8 on each of the six sections (although you’ll see only one overall 1-8 score), and a “college ready” score is 5 or higher. Essays that are too short to be evaluated against these criteria, that miss addressing the prompt completely, or that aren’t written in English will automatically receive a 0. 

Keep in mind that a computer scores these essays, so you’re just trying to show the computer you can form a logical, well-developed argument – and use solid grammar and spelling and a decent writing style.

TSI Essay Examples

Check out these TSI essay samples from the College Board , which evaluate essays scored 1-8 and explain why these sample TSI essays received the score they did and how they could’ve been improved. 

Again, you won’t be scored on your actual opinion, so don’t be concerned you’ll “lose points” if you support the less popular perspective.

Steps to Writing Your TSI Essay

Writing an effective, high-scoring essay means taking your time going through each step and really planning out your essay. While the planning portion doesn’t need to take a lot of time, but it will help you in the end by making your essay flow better and being well-thought-out.

Four important steps go into writing a great TSI essay.

1. Understand the Assignment

• Read the passage and the prompt. Read it again!
• Make sure you understand the TSI essay prompt, the issue it’s presenting, and the sides to the issue you can write about. Remember: This essay doesn’t expect you to have any technical or specific knowledge to write an effective response. Instead, you’ll use your own experiences, examples, and knowledge to defend your position.
• Consider how you’ll address the issue the passage mentions. You’ll need to pick one side of the issue to write about in your essay – even if you feel your stance on the position falls somewhere in the middle. Your score doesn't depend on which side of the issue you take; rather, it’s about how well you can support it.

2.  Make a Plan

Two of the biggest factors in a high-scoring TSI essay grade are length and clarity. As a result, you’ll want to use the scratch paper you have available to decide the position you want to take and sketch out a rough outline.

On the scratch paper:

• Decide which position of the TSI essay prompt will be easiest to write about. Making this decision could involve making a two-column table and then writing down the evidence you can think of to support each position. Usually, it will become clear which one will be easier for you to write about (hint: the column with more writing/examples in it). Once you decide your position …
• List out supporting examples. Come up with four or five examples to support your position. Bring in your personal experience and knowledge to support your response to the TSI essay prompt. The more specific, the better. Names, dates, places, conversations – these specifics will help you defend your position and earn a higher score. And they can come from anywhere – history, the news, pop culture, social media, movies/TV shows, politics, sports, entertainment, family history, quotations, personal stories, etc.. 
• Identify the three (minimum of two) strongest examples. Those will become your body paragraphs. Finally, you'll …
• Draft your thesis statement. Based on your position and examples, what is the topic of your essay, what side of the argument will you be defending, and why have you chosen that side?

3. Start Writing

With the outlining work done, you’ve done the hard part. Congratulations. But you’re just getting started. Now it’s time to put it all together into a cohesive essay. Here’s how you’ll start writing each paragraph of your TSI essay.

Introduction

Spend no more than 3-4 sentences in your opening. Even 1-2 sentences are sufficient to state your position on the assigned topic. This will be quick and to the point, letting you spend more of your time defending your position.

In your introduction:

• Introduce the reader to the topic. This may include some sort of “hook” or attention-getting sentence that highlights the issue. This could be a quote, a personal anecdote, a historical reference, or a current piece of news.
• Admission of complexity. Acknowledge that there are many sides to the issue.
• State your thesis. Clearly and definitively state your position on the matter. This should be the last sentence of the paragraph and can include mentions of the two or three pieces of supporting evidence you’ll be presenting in the body paragraphs.

Body Paragraphs

Aim for writing three body paragraphs, but write a minimum of two. Each paragraph should have at least 4-6 sentences. Here are some other tips for writing your body paragraphs:

• Order your body paragraphs from the strongest to the weakest. Use your strongest example as your first body paragraph.
• Use transition words and phrases , like the ones below from Merriam-Webster, to signal to the reader that you're moving on to a new idea but this new paragraph is connected to the previous one. 
• Start with a topic sentence. Using a transition word or phrase, introduces your example and establish the point you’re going to make in this paragraph only.
• Next, fully describe that example. Be specific. Use the detailed examples you came up with in “Make a Plan” above. Use one example per paragraph. Be descriptive and thorough. 
• End by explaining how this example supports your thesis. This is where you’ll spend the majority of the paragraph. Use specifics and details to convince your reader how this example demonstrates the position you hold on the topic is the right one.

Much like the introduction, the conclusion will be a short (3-4 sentences, max) paragraph that sums up your position, addresses the opposing viewpoint, and leaves the reader with a closing thought.

As a result, the format might look a little like this:

• Acknowledge there’s another point of view by saying that while your position is obviously the correct one, other people believe [insert a brief summary of the opposing viewpoint].
• Briefly state why that opposing position/perspective is incorrect.
• Restate why your opinion is the right one, which may include a summary of the points you’ve made in your body paragraphs.

Note: While you are mentioning the opposing viewpoint in the closing, this is not the same as taking both sides, which I cautioned against earlier. This is mentioning the other perspective but then briefly and effectively criticizing it and showing why yours is better.

Here’s a sample conclusion from TSIPracticeTest.com that shows how you can fill in the blanks:

Although ________ is demonstrably correct, some have argued that _______, believing that ________. However, this viewpoint on the present issue is negated by ________. Rather, __________. Therefore, in the long run it is clear that _____________.

4. Proofread Your Essay

Once you think you’re done writing, you’re not. Now it’s time for editing and proofreading .

Read your essay slowly, from start to finish. Make sure your ideas make sense and support your thesis. Check that you transition from one paragraph to another. You should ensure your examples are detailed, descriptive, and support your argument. Sound good? Good. But you’re not done … yet.

Because part of your score is based on spelling, grammar, and punctuation, read the essay at least once after you think it’s done. Read it back slowly to yourself, and look for any mistakes you can correct. 

Remember: You have no time limit for writing the TSI essay, and taking your time now is better than having to take the test again because of errors you could’ve corrected.

Want More Help on the TSI Essay?

Hopefully these tips and tricks are enough to help you hit your targets when writing the TSI essay. But if you’re looking to read sample essays (and evaluations), practice with sample prompts, or learn more tips and tricks. You can find additional resources online, but some I found to be helpful are:

Sample TSI Essays and TSI Writing Resources

• Tips and Strategies for the TSI Essay
• College Board: WritePlacer Guide With Sample Essays
• Practice Test Essay
• TSI Essay Practice! – Michael Tooey (video, 01:20:36)

Support for the Full TSI

• TSI flash cards . These color-coded flash cards include study tips and cover mathematics, language arts, and reading. They also include practice questions.
• TSI Study Guide 2023-2024 (Jonathan Cox). This study guide includes 2 practice tests (one online, one in book), answers/explanations, access to online flash cards, and other study materials.
• TSI Study Guide 2023-2024 (Joshua Rueda). This study guide includes 3 practice tests, answers, and explanations; test-taking strategies; and a breakdown of each section.

Writing a college admission essay instead? The guidelines are much different. Learn how to get started with y our personal statement.

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TSI Test - ELAR (Reading/Writing) Guide

• Testing Center

Helpful Links

• Grammar Guide A guide to grammar rules.
• Writing Essays A guide to writing essays.
• Essay General Tips
• Multiple Choice General Tips
• TSI Editing Checklist
• Tips for Content
• Sample Essay Prompt and Responses
• Sample Multiple Choice Questions
• Multiple Choice Answer Key

The Writing section of the TSI is designed to evaluate a student's ability to express their thoughts and ideas in writing. It consists of two components: an essay and multiple-choice questions on editing and revising written texts . It is graded by software.

The essay component of the Writing section requires students to write an essay of 300-600 words on a given topic. The essay prompt is designed to assess the student's ability to organize and develop ideas, support arguments with evidence, and use standard written English conventions.

The multiple-choice questions component of the Writing section includes 15 items (out of 30 multiple choice) that test students' skills in revising and editing written texts. The items may include questions on sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. 

The Writing section of the TSI is important for students who plan to attend college because it helps to determine whether they are prepared for college-level writing assignments. By assessing their writing skills, the TSI can identify areas where students may need additional support and resources to succeed in college-level courses.

These are some general tips to help with the essay section.

Understand the scoring rubric: Familiarize yourself with the scoring rubric used to evaluate the essay. This will help you understand what the evaluators are looking for and how you can earn a high score.

Plan and organize your essay: Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay. This will help you stay on track and ensure that your essay is well-organized and easy to follow.

Use specific examples and evidence: To support your arguments, use specific examples and evidence from your own experiences or from the reading materials provided.

Focus on clarity and coherence: Make sure your essay is easy to read and understand. Use transitions and topic sentences to connect ideas and create a clear flow of information.

Follow standard written English conventions: Use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling throughout your essay. Avoid slang and informal language.

Practice writing under time pressure: Set a timer and practice writing essays in a timed environment. This will help you get used to writing under time pressure and improve your time management skills.

Review and revise your work: Before submitting your essay, review and revise your work for errors, clarity, and coherence. Make sure your essay is well-structured and easy to follow.

Write at least 400 (but preferably at least 500) words.  Though the test officially only requires a 300 word minimum, students don't tend to receive the best scores by only meeting the minimum. Remember, the grading is done by a machine. Do not go over 600 words.

Read the entire sentence or passage carefully: Make sure to read the entire sentence or passage before answering the question. Sometimes, the context of the surrounding sentences can help you identify the correct answer.

Identify the error type: Identify the type of error in the sentence or passage, such as grammar, punctuation, or sentence structure. Knowing the error type can help you identify the correct answer choice.

Eliminate answer choices: Eliminate any answer choices that you know are incorrect. This can increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.

Watch for tricky answer choices: Sometimes, answer choices can be written in a tricky way to try and trip you up. Make sure to read each answer choice carefully and watch for subtle differences between them.

Pay attention to sentence structure: Sentence structure can play a big role in determining the correct answer. Look for errors such as run-on sentences, sentence fragments, and subject-verb agreement.

Review basic grammar rules: Make sure you are familiar with basic grammar rules such as verb tenses, pronoun usage, and punctuation. Reviewing these rules can help you identify errors and choose the correct answer.

Use context clues: If you are unsure of the meaning of a word or phrase, look at the surrounding context to see if you can determine its meaning. This can help you identify the correct answer choice.

Be aware of common errors: Certain types of errors, such as misplaced modifiers or faulty parallelism, are common in written texts. Being aware of these common errors can help you identify them more easily.

Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with identifying and correcting errors in written texts. Use practice tests and study materials to hone your skills and prepare for the multiple-choice writing-focused section of the TSI.

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) essay evaluates your writing skills for college-level courses. To excel in the TSI essay, effective editing is crucial. This checklist outlines key areas to focus on when editing your essay to meet the TSI requirements and maximize your chances of success. Remember to make the essay 400+ words.

I. Organization and Structure

• Is there a clear introduction that grabs the reader's attention and presents a thesis statement?
• Does each paragraph have a clear topic sentence that relates to the thesis statement?
• Are the paragraphs logically organized, with smooth transitions between ideas?
• Is there a conclusion that summarizes the main points and restates the thesis?

II. Development and Support

• Are the main ideas and supporting details clearly expressed and effectively developed?
• Is there sufficient evidence and examples to support your claims?
• Have you addressed counterarguments or opposing viewpoints, if applicable?
• Is the information presented in a logical and coherent manner?

III. Sentence Variety and Style

• Have you used a variety of sentence structures to enhance readability?
• Are there any repetitive or unclear sentences that need revision?
• Have you used appropriate vocabulary and avoided slang or informal language?
• Have you maintained a consistent tone and style throughout the essay?

IV. Mechanical Conventions

• Have you checked for spelling errors, typos, and word choice mistakes?
• Are capitalization, punctuation, and paragraph indentation used correctly?
• Have you used transitions effectively to connect ideas and improve the flow of your writing?
• Are sentences grammatically correct, with proper subject-verb agreement and punctuation?

V. Purpose and Focus

• Is the purpose of the essay clearly defined and effectively communicated?
• Does the essay stay focused on the main topic or argument throughout?
• Have you avoided tangents or irrelevant information that may distract from the main point?
• Is there a clear central idea or theme that guides the content and structure of the essay?
• Have you considered the target audience and adjusted your writing style and tone accordingly?
• Have you reviewed each paragraph to ensure it contributes to the overall purpose and focus of the essay?

VI. Critical Thinking

• Have you presented a well-reasoned and logical argument or analysis?
• Have you clearly stated your claims or assertions and provided sufficient evidence to support them?
• Have you used sound and reliable support for your claims? Have you avoided relying solely on personal opinions or unsupported assertions?
• Have you considered counterarguments or alternative perspectives and addressed them appropriately?
• Have you avoided logical fallacies or errors in reasoning, such as hasty generalizations or ad hominem attacks?
• Have you evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of your own arguments and made necessary revisions?

Essay Section

Multiple Choice Section

Sample Prompt

Take a look at sample essay responses from CollegeBoard .

1. Choose the option that corrects the underlined portion of the sentence.

The students are planning there upcoming field trip to the museum.

A) they are

C) they're

D) No change

2. Choose the option that best combines the following two sentences.

Sentence 1: The book was captivating.

Sentence 2: It kept me hooked until the end.

A) The book was captivating kept me hooked until the end.

B) The book, it was captivating, kept me hooked until the end.

C) The book was captivating and kept me hooked until the end.

D) The book was captivating, it kept me hooked until the end.

3. Choose the option that corrects the punctuation error in the sentence.

We went to the store, and bought some groceries, snacks, and beverages.

A) We went to the store and bought some groceries, snacks and beverages.

B) We went to the store, and bought some groceries snacks and beverages.

C) We went to the store, and bought some groceries, snacks and beverages.

1. Choose the option that corrects the underlined portion of the sentence. Correct Answer: B

This answer choice is incorrect. "They are" is a contraction that does not fit grammatically in the sentence and does not provide the necessary correction.

This answer choice is correct. "Their" is a possessive pronoun indicating ownership. In this context, it correctly indicates that the upcoming field trip belongs to the students.

This answer choice is incorrect. "They're" is a contraction of "they are" and does not fit grammatically in the sentence.

This answer choice is incorrect. The original underlined portion contains an error, as "there" is an adverb indicating a location and does not make sense in the context of the sentence.

2. Choose the option that best combines the following two sentences. Correct Answer: C

This answer is incorrect. It lacks proper punctuation or conjunction to connect the two independent clauses. It results in a sentence fragment and lacks clarity and grammatical correctness.

This answer is incorrect. It introduces unnecessary repetition with the use of the pronoun "it." It also includes unnecessary punctuation, which disrupts the flow of the sentence.

This answer is correct. It effectively combines the two independent clauses using the coordinating conjunction "and," maintaining clarity and coherence.

D) The book was captivating, it kept me hooked until the end.

This answer is incorrect. It introduces a comma splice error by using a comma to join two independent clauses. It lacks a coordinating conjunction or proper punctuation.

3. Choose the option that corrects the punctuation error in the sentence. Correct Answer: A

This answer is correct. It removes the unnecessary comma after "store" and correctly uses commas to separate the items in the list ("groceries, snacks, and beverages").

This answer is incorrect. It omits the necessary commas after "groceries" and before "snacks."

This answer is incorrect. It retains the unnecessary comma after "store" and lacks commas to separate the items in the list.

This answer is incorrect. The original sentence contains a punctuation error and requires correction.

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• Last Updated: Jan 5, 2024 12:31 PM
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Home > College Admissions > TSI > TSIA2 Practice Test

TSIA2 Practice Test

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TSIA2 Math Prep Course

More Practice Exams

1 . Question

This pie chart describes the market share of 5 brands of cleaner, based on a survey of 300 shoppers in New York.

Which 2 brands have similar market shares?

2 . Question

45 of the shoppers purchased D. How large is the sector angle for D?

• a. 45 degrees
• b. 60 degrees
• c. 70 degrees
• d. 54 degrees

3 . Question

The angle for B is 198 degrees. How many shoppers purchased B?

4 . Question

There is a 12% sales tax. The pre-tax cost of a mobile phone is $280. What is the tax payable on this mobile phone?

5 . Question

Given the formula a = s 2  + 3b – c , find the value of a when s = 7, b = 13 and c = -24.

6 . Question

The circle below is divided into eight equal sectors. If a sector is chosen at random what is the probability that the sector contains B or C?

7 . Question

A wage sheet of a small business shows one employee’s details. The employee is paid $40 an hour for overtime hours where they work more than their usual 26 hours.

What number should replace x?

8 . Question

Which of these is true?

• a. √(-3) is negative
• b. √(-3) is positive
• c. √(-3) is undefined
• d. √(-3) is an integer

9 . Question

Chong thinks of a number, adds 10 then multiplies the number so obtained by 3 and gets 42.

If the number is n then write an equation for this.

• a. 3(n + 10) = 42
• b. 3n + 10 = 42
• c. 42n + 10 = 3
• d. 10n + 3 = 42

10 . Question

The graph below is part of the graph of the function T = (t + 1)(t – 3) for the temperature in a refrigerator for time t hours after midday.

For which set of t values is the temperature below 0?

• a. 1< t < 3
• b. -1< t < 3
• c. t >= 3
• d. -1< t < -3

TSIA2 Math Exam Prep

All tsi practice tests.

We have listed all of our free TSI practice tests below. Pick which section you want to start with and begin your studies.

• TSI Math Practice Test 1
• TSI Math Practice Test 2
• TSI Math Practice Test 3
• TSI Math Practice Test 4
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 1
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 2
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 3
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 4
• TSI Essay Practice Test 1
• TSI Essay Practice Test 2
• TSI Essay Practice Test 3
• TSI Essay Practice Test 4

Other TSIA2 Resources

When preparing for your TSIA2 exam, you may find these other resources helpful:

TSIA2 Exam Overview

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment is a program that measures a student’s readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing. Colleges also use the TSI results to help place students in the right courses and determine if any interventions are necessary.

The table below breaks down the TSIA2 exam and how it is structured.

You will first be given the College Readiness Classification (CRC) version of the exam.

If you do not pass the CRC benchmarks, you will then taking the diagnostic version of the sections you did not pass.

The essay is given along with the ELAR section.

TSI English Language Arts Reading (ELAR) Section

The TSI English language arts reading (ELAR) section measures your ability to read and write.

The questions are broken up into 2 main categories:

• Reading-Focused
• Writing-Focused

You will take the CRC version of the exam first. If you do not pass, you will then take the diagnostic version. The exam is multiple-choice and untimed.

TSI Mathematics Section

The TSI math section measures your ability in mathematics.

The questions are broken up into 4 main categories:

• Quantitative Reasoning
• Algebraic Reasoning
• Geometric and Spatial Reasoning
• Probabilistic and Statistical Reasoning

TSI Essay Section

The TSI essay section measures your ability to write. You will be given a prompt and asked to respond with a 300 to 600 word essay.

Your essay will be scored based on the following 6 characteristics:

• Purpose and Focus
• Organization and Structure
• Development and Support
• Sentence Variety and Style
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical Thinking

The essay will appear on the CRC version of the ELAR test. You will not be allowed to use outside resources to help with the essay.

TSIA2 Scores and Exemptions

All incoming college students in Texas are required to take the TSI exam. You will need the following minimum passing scores:

TSIA2 (After 1/11/21):

• Math: CRC score of 950+ or CRC score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6.
• ELAR: CRC score of 945+ and an essay score of 5+ or CRC score below 945 and a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of 5+.

TSI (Before 1/11/21):

• Math: Score from 350 to 390.
• Reading: Score from 351 to 390.
• Writing: Score of 340+ and an essay score of 4+.

There are some exemptions to the TSI test based on how you scored on other standardized exams. To learn more about scores and exemptions, read our complete guide to TSI scores .

TSIA2 Practice Test Benefits

There are many benefits of preparing for your TSI exam with practice tests. Studying for your TSI test using sample questions is one of the most effective study practices you can use. The advantages of using sample TSI tests include:

• Improving Your Problem Solving Abilities: To do well on the TSI exam, especially the math section, you need to be able to solve problems. As you practice with our sample questions, and review the provided explanations, you will increase your ability to solve problems.
• Mastering the Test Format:  Standardized exams, like the TSI, have their own particular test formats. The best way to become familiar with the test format is to take practice exams. By understanding the TSI test format you will have no surprises on test day!
• Concentrating Your Study: Many students waste a lot of valuable study time by reviewing material that they are good at. As you answer more TSI practice questions, you will get a feel for what you struggle with. The most effective way to study is to concentrate on the areas that you need help on.

TSIA2 Exam FAQs

What is the tsi exam.

TSI stands for Texas Success Initiative. The TSI is an assessment exam that aims to gauge a student’s readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing.

The test is also used as a way to place students in the appropriate classes in college.

What is on the TSI exam?

The TSIA2 exam consists of the following:

• English Language Arts and Reading

The exam is multiple-choice and untimed. The essay is given at the end of the ELAR section.

How much does the TSIA2 exam cost?

The TSIA2 exam costs $29. If you only need to take the ELAR section it is $20. If you only need to take the math section it is $10.

Are calculators allowed on the TSIA2 exam?

You will not be allowed to bring a calculator when taking the exam. However, a calculator will appear on questions that allow the use of one on your screen.

Is the TSIA2 exam given on a computer?

Yes, the TSI exam is given on a computer. The exam is computer adaptive, which means that questions will get harder or easier based on how you answered the previous question.

What is the best way to study for the TSI?

One of the best ways to get ready for a standardized test is by taking practice tests.

Our free TSI practice tests will challenge you on all aspects of the TSI.

Our practice questions also include answer explanations to help you better understand the material and do better on the TSI.

• Authored By: Dave Evangelisti
• Last Updated: June 13, 2024

TSI Practice Test

Prepare for your test with realistic questions.

Welcome to the TSI practice test page!

Click the “Start Test” button above to begin your free TSI practice test! These TSI practice questions will give you a better idea of what to study for your exam.

TSI Practice Tests by Subject

If you need some extra practice in a specific subject, click one of the subjects below to get started on a subject-specific TSI practice test.

TSI Math Practice Test TSI ELAR Practice Test

TSI Assessment Outline

Check Out Mometrix's TSI Study Guide

Get practice questions, video tutorials, and detailed study lessons

Practice For the TSI the Best Way

How to study effectively.

Your success on TSI test day depends not only on how many hours you put into preparing, but also on whether you prepared the right way. It’s good to check along the way to see whether your studying is paying off. One of the most effective ways to do this is by taking TSI practice tests to evaluate your progress. Practice tests are useful because they show exactly where you need to improve. Every time you take a free TSI practice test, pay special attention to these three groups of questions:

• The questions you got wrong
• The ones you had to guess on, even if you guessed right
• The ones you found difficult or slow to work through

This will show you exactly what your weak areas are, and where you need to devote more study time. Ask yourself why each of these questions gave you trouble. Was it because you didn’t understand the material? Was it because you didn’t remember the vocabulary? Do you need more repetitions on this type of question to build speed and confidence? Dig into those questions and figure out how you can strengthen your weak areas as you go back to review the material.

Answer Explanations

Additionally, many TSI practice tests have a section explaining the answer choices. It can be tempting to read the explanation and think that you now have a good understanding of the concept. However, an explanation likely only covers part of the question’s broader context. Even if the explanation makes sense, go back and investigate every concept related to the question until you’re positive you have a thorough understanding.

Comprehend Each Topic

As you go along, keep in mind that the TSI practice test is just that: practice. Memorizing these questions and answers will not be very helpful on the actual test because it is unlikely to have any of the same exact questions. If you only know the right answers to the sample questions, you won’t be prepared for the real thing. Study the concepts until you understand them fully, and then you’ll be able to answer any question that shows up on the test.

TSI Test Online Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online TSI prep course designed to give you everything you need to succeed!

Here’s what you’ll find in the TSI course:

• 120 Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• Over 1,250 TSI Practice Questions
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Everyone learns differently, so we’ve tailored the TSI online prep course to ensure every learner has what they need to prepare for the TSI exam.

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TSI Practice Methods

When you’re ready to start taking TSI practice tests, follow this strategy:

• Remove Limitations. Take the first test with no time constraints and with your notes and TSI study guide handy. Take your time and focus on applying the strategies you’ve learned.
• Time Yourself. Take the second practice test “open book” as well, but set a timer and practice pacing yourself to finish in time.
• Simulate Test Day. Take any other practice tests as if it were test day. Set a timer and put away your study materials. Sit at a table or desk in a quiet room, imagine yourself at the testing center, and answer questions as quickly and accurately as possible.
• Keep Practicing. Keep taking practice tests on a regular basis until you run out of practice tests or it’s time for the actual test. Your mind will be ready for the schedule and stress of test day, and you’ll be able to focus on recalling the material you’ve learned.

If you need additional instruction, check out the Mometrix flashcards and study guide which includes additional practice tests. These invaluable resources include a risk-free, 1-year 100% money-back guarantee. Repetition and practice is key to adequate preparation.

Do you have to take a TSI?

No, it is not mandatory that students take the TSI Assessment. There are several ways that you can be exempt.

How much does it cost to take the TSI?

To take the full TSIA2 Assessment, the registration fee is $29. If you only need to take a particular section of the test, the ELAR cost is $20 and $10 for the Math or Essay section.

Are you allowed to use a calculator on the TSI?

Calculators are not allowed to be used on the TSI Assessment. However, there will be a pop-up calculator embedded in the test for some questions.

Is the TSI test required?

Unless you are exempt, you are required to take the TSI Assessment if you are entering college.

Is the TSI test timed?

The TSI is not a timed test. Some colleges do recommend that you allow two hours for the writing section and one hour for the reading and math sections.

What will be on the TSI test?

There are three sections of the TSI Assessment. These sections include Math, English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR), and an essay.

What do you have to score on the TSI to pass?

Each section of the TSI have different “passing” scores. The Mathematics section has a minimum score of 950, the ELAR section is 945, and the Essay section would need a score of 5.

By Alli Yeary

Alli graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics in 2020 and serves as the Math Content Coordinator for Mometrix. She uses her passion for math to help create and edit math content that is understandable and enjoyable for learners at any level.

TSI Test – Home

by Mometrix Test Preparation | Last Updated: August 15, 2024

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TSI Pre-Assessment Activity

The State of Texas requires students to complete a pre-assessment activity before taking the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment. The pre-assessment activity must address:

• The importance of this assessment in students’ academic careers
• Developmental education options
• Institutional and/or community resources
• The assessment process and components, including practice opportunities with feedback of sample test questions in all disciplinary areas

In working through this pre-assessment activity, you will receive information on each of the areas specified above.

Importance of the Assessment

The TSI Assessment is a series of three tests that will help Angelo State University and other institutions determine if you are ready for college-level coursework in reading, writing and mathematics. ASU will also use the results of this assessment to help determine what type of course or other intervention will serve best to prepare you for college-level coursework, if you are not ready. To learn more, read this TSI Test Content information.

This is a critically important assessment. Your performance on these tests will determine what type of college-level coursework you will be allowed to take – or – what kind of developmental courses or other interventions you may be required to take to improve your skills and prepare you for success in college-level courses.

Read this TSI Assessment Student Informative Brochure to learn more.

Developmental Education Options

If your scores on the TSI Assessment indicate that you are not ready for college-level coursework in one or more areas, you will be required to participate in developmental activities.

Reading and Writing

If your scores indicate that you are not ready for college-level coursework in reading and/or writing, you will be required to participate in developmental English activities. This may include enrollment in the developmental course ENG 130C or the opportunity to satisfy your developmental requirements through a non-course-based option. Your academic advisor will be able to help you determine what options are available to you and which one might be right for your situation.

Mathematics

If your scores indicate that you are not ready for college-level coursework in mathematics, you will be required to participate in developmental mathematics activities. This may include enrollment in the developmental course MATH 130C or the opportunity to satisfy your developmental requirements through either a non-course-based option or a paired-course option (a college-level course paired with a developmental course). Your academic advisor will be able to help you determine what options are available to you and which one might be right for your situation.

Regardless of your placement or participation in developmental activities, you can always demonstrate that you are ready for college-level work and satisfy your developmental requirement by retaking the TSI Assessment and achieving a passing score.

Student Resources

Students can receive support from these ASU resources:

• The Math Lab provides walk-in mathematics tutoring.
• The Writing Center offers walk-in and by-appointment tutoring for both reading and writing.
• The Tutor Center provides tutoring in a variety of subjects.
• The Porter Henderson Library has books and information on a host of subjects, extensive and comfortable study areas, and great coffee.
• Academic advisors are an excellent first contact for academic issues.
• The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships can help you secure grants, student loans, and scholarship funds to help you pay for your education.
• The Multicultural Center works to encourage a welcoming and supportive environment for the ASU community while sponsoring educational programming.
• The Veterans Educational and Transitional Services (VETS) Center provides support to veterans and their dependents.

Assessment Process and Components

The TSI Assessment consists of three tests with one in each of these areas: mathematics, reading and writing. These tests include multiple choice questions that are aligned to the Texas College and Career Readiness Standards. The writing test includes an essay.

The assessment is computer adaptive, which means the multiple choice questions become either more or less difficult, depending on how you respond. For this reason, you cannot go back and change an answer once you have submitted it and moved on. The assessment is not timed, so it is in your best interest to spend sufficient time on each question because the results of the assessment will help determine which college courses you will be able to take.

You will receive information on your score immediately upon completion of the assessment. See this TSI brochure for help interpreting your score.

Be sure to record the ID number you used while testing. This number will be necessary for test directors or other institutional personnel to look up your test scores.

Pre-Assessment Activity and Practice Tests

Identify areas of weakness prior to taking the assessment by using the link below to take practice tests and to complete the pre-assessment activity.

Take PAA and practice tests

TSI Writing Practice Test 2

The TSI English Language Arts and Reading test consists of 30 multiple choice questions. Our practice tests are split into two sections. This 15 question practice test covers Language Arts, which is focused on writing. These questions will ask you to revise sentences and to revise essays.

Congratulations - you have completed .

You scored %%SCORE%% out of %%TOTAL%%.

Your performance has been rated as %%RATING%%

For questions 1–11, select the best version of the underlined part of the sentence. If you think the original sentence is best, choose the first answer.

Every child should learn how to ride a bike, even if one is scared..

Sinclair went to the store to pick up a loaf of bread, when he got there he realized the store was out of bread.

Many people look at the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island in New York City and marvel at its uniquity; however, France built two of the statues when they gifted it to the United States. The other statue, albeit a much smaller model, is on display in Paris.

Traumatic events that affect a person’s psyche for life and which require intervention from a qualified professional.

According to nearly all scientists, vaccines has not been directly linked to autism.

Siegfried and Roy’s Vegas showcase proved that wild tigers could be tamed; their accident proved that it might not be a good idea.

But by the time their commander returns, the platoon would have been finished cleaning the barracks.

Whenever gift exchanges occur, people say that it’s better to be giving than to receive, but I definitely love getting gifts more than I enjoy giving them.

Because it’s soil was overwatered, the plant began to wither and die.

Janice was the one that broke the window.

The envelope, which contained a check for one thousand dollars , sat tauntingly on the desk.

For questions 12–15, read this early draft of an essay and then answer the questions that follow.

In context, which of the following is the best way to revise and combine sentences 1 and 2 (reproduced below), in the last 25 years (and beyond), our world has been quickly transforming due to digital innovations. change is occurring so quickly that we often don’t even have enough time to analyze how these changes are designing our society..

In context, which is the best revision to sentence 4 (reproduced below)?

This revolution has them wondering about where technology is headed, with many positing that we are headed towards what they call “the singularity,” or a technological singularity..

In context, where would the following sentence best be placed?

The concept of “the singularity” plays on peoples’ fear of causing their own destruction..

In context, which of the following sentences would best be inserted between sentences 7 and 8?

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0

Free TSIA2 PAA and Practice Resources

Preparing Texas students for success

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2)

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) is a series of placement tests for students enrolling in public colleges and universities in Texas. The tests help Texas schools determine whether you’re ready for college-level courses in the areas of reading, writing, and math.

Am I Required to Take the TSIA2?

Not all Texas college students have to take TSIA2. If you’ve met college readiness standards on a standardized test like the SAT or successfully completed a high school college preparatory course, you may be exempt. Contact the college you’ll be attending to see if you need to take TSIA2.

Why do I need to take TSIA2 tests?

If you haven't yet met college readiness standards, TSIA2 tests help determine what types of courses or intervention will best prepare you for college-level work. TSIA2 tests are computerized and, depending on school policy, you may get results immediately after you finish the test.

What if I haven't yet met college readiness standards?

A Preassessment Activity (PAA) and TSIA2 testing are required. You'll need to complete the PAA prior to TSIA2 testing.

How can I practice for TSIA2 tests?

Once your PAA is completed, take advantage of the free TSIA2 practice tests and learning resources below.

Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA) and TSIA2 Practice for Texas Students

The PAA is required prior to taking TSIA2 tests. Get started now!

Free PAA and practice tests

The PAA is required prior to taking your TSIA2 tests. Once you've  created an account , you'll also have access to TSIA2 practice tests resembling actual tests.

Improve skills with free learning resources

The TSIA2  Perspective  Learning Resources is a free tool that provides hundreds of learning exercises to help strengthen students’ knowledge.

Additional TSIA2 resources

Download and practice with free TSIA2 sample test questions, essay prompts, and review additional resources.

Learning Express Library

• Getting Started
• TSI Test Prep

Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA)

The TSIA2 is a placement test that is designed to put you in the course that matches your level of understanding and skill.

The assessment covers reading, writing, and math, with the questions increasing in challenge as you progress to better determine your level of knowledge.

Most of the test is untimed, excluding a portion of the writing, and any section can be retaken for $10.

This not a “pass or fail” test, however, the lower you score, the more courses you may need to take.

TSI Practice Tests

• Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) Additional Resources Download and practice with free TSIA2 sample test questions, essay prompts, and review other resources. TSIA2 essay guides show you the types of prompts you might see on the TSIA2 tests, as well as examples of responses to those prompts, the scores they received, and why they received those scores. more... less... There are sample questions available for the English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) test and the Mathematics test
• Download and practice with more free sample questions There are sample questions available for all ACCUPLACER tests, including the ESL tests. If you are struggling with math, it is recommended to start with the Arithmetic test first.

TSI Study Resources

• Learning Express Library: TSI Resources
• Physical TSI Study Guides in Campus Libraries

• Learning Locator™ Students identified as not college ready on the TSIA2 assessments can use the powerful Learning Locator™ to find specific materials targeted to the growth areas identified on their score reports. Students will need to enter a Learning Locator™ code from their TSIA2 score report, either provided by their teacher or sent through school e-mail.
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