tsi essay practice accuplacer

WritePlacer Essay Guide

During the ACCUPLACER test, you will have to take the WritePlacer exam, which requires you to write an essay. Your essay will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Purpose and focus
• Organization and structure
• Development and support
• Sentence variety and style
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical thinking

You will have 1 hour to plan, write, and proofread this essay.

Your Accuplacer essay is only required to be 300–600 words in length, so a simple 5 paragraph essay will be more than sufficient. Scores on WritePlacer range from 1 to 8, with 8 being the highest.

An essay that is too short to be evaluated, written on a topic other than the one presented, or written in a language other than English will be given a score of zero.

The biggest differences between a low-scoring and a high-scoring essay is LENGTH and CLARITY. Aim to achieve multiple paragraphs with good organization, and this essay should be fairly easy!

WritePlacer Tips and Strategies

• This essay DOES NOT require you to have any outside knowledge. The essay will be based off a provided prompt meant to spark your creativity. Everything you need to answer the question will be part of the prompt!
• You must take a clear stance. Unlike real life where most of our opinions are a mix of gray, the ACCUPLACER essay requires you to take a strong stance on the issue provided in the prompt. Essays that don’t take a clear stance will score low on the rubric.
• Your stance doesn’t affect your score. The test is not steering you to one side of the argument or another. The side you choose doesn’t matter; what matters is how well you craft your argument.
• Don’t change your stance. Part of taking a clear stance means following it through to the end of the response. Even if you are struggling with the stance you chose, work your way to the end.
• Be specific in your argument. As long as you can argue logically that it supports your thesis, no example is “too” specific. One of the biggest issues that writers have with the WritePlacer exam is being too vague and general. If you are using an example from personal experience, using some names, dates, places, and other concrete details can go a long way. Try to avoid hypothetical examples as well.
• Incorporate a counter-argument. While you need to take a clear stance, that doesn’t mean you have to ignore the other side of the argument. The best writers take the opposing side into account before criticizing it and effectively securing their stance as the correct one. This is a great tool to use in your conclusion, although many students include it in an additional body paragraph.
• Keep the introduction and conclusion brief . Don’t take forever to get to the topic. The function of an introductory paragraph is to introduce the reader to the topic in the prompt, and then to clearly and forcefully state your position on it. This should be done in no more than 3–4 sentences. In the conclusion, 1–2 sentences are enough to reiterate your position and leave the essay with a closing idea. Save the bulk of your writing-time for your body paragraphs!
• Use Transition Words . Scroll down to the bottom of this article to see a good list of common transition words. Be sure to use them as you move between paragraphs! Always make sure the reader will understand why you are moving from one paragraph to the next paragraph!

WritePlacer Template

This is a sample outline for the ACCUPLACER Essay. Notice we are aiming for 5 paragraphs total. You may opt for a shorter 4 paragraph version if 5 paragraphs are too many for you to write, but aim for 5 paragraphs if you can. If you have trouble completing 5 paragraphs, see if you can streamline your body paragraphs. They can often be bloated with unnecessary wordiness. Keep the introduction and the conclusion short and sweet.

Paragraph 1 — Introduction (3–4 sentences)

You will want to begin your essay with one of the following:

• a generalization about the topic,
• a quotation,
• a short anecdote to set-up the correctness of your position,
• a historical framework,
• or a piece of news illustrating the contemporariness of the issue.

Admit to the complexity of the issue. You have two goals in the beginning part of the essay: to introduce the  topic , and to express your  opinion  on it. Be sure to place your thesis as the final sentence in your introduction.

Paragraph 2 — First Example (4–6 sentences)

Start with your most-powerful or relevant example. Remember that you won’t have any material to work from, so it’s OK that you don’t have direct quotes, statistics, or other incredibly specific details in your examples. However, be as specific as you can be about how your example supports your position. Anything can be an example, but choose ONE only for each paragraph. It needs to be something you are knowledgeable about and also something that you believe strongly supports your thesis. You have three tasks in your body paragraphs:

• Introduce your example (history, science, politics, business, entertainment, pop culture, current events, personal experience, etc).
• Describe your example as specifically as you can (do not make up fact/statistics; readers can usually tell when you’re making something up).
• Explain how it fully supports your thesis. This is the most important step and should be your main focus. This is where you prove your point.

You should be spending the majority of your body paragraph accomplishing the third step:  explaining how it fully supports your thesis . Aim to convince the reader through very concrete details how your position on the issue is correct.

Paragraph 3 — Second Example (4–6 sentences)

Use a transition phrase to introduce the second example, and then follow the same format as the previous paragraph with your new example. It’s OK to mention your first example, but the main focus of your paragraph should be on the new example, and, most importantly, how the new example proves your thesis.

Paragraph 4 — Third Example (4–6 sentences)

Use another transition phrase to introduce your third example. Then, follow the same format as the previous two paragraphs. Again, make sure the focus of your paragraph is on your new example and how it proves your thesis.

Paragraph 5 —  Conclusion (2–4 sentences)

Many writers struggle with the conclusion. A good way to end your essay is with a counter-argument. Introduce an opposing opinion, explain it in general terms, then refute it. Finish the paragraph by reinforcing the correctness of your own stance. Here’s how it might look:

Despite the fact that                     , some people will argue that                     . However,                     (refute the opposing viewpoint as wrong and/or shortsighted) . Instead,                     (discuss how your viewpoint is more valid than the viewpoint of the opposition ). Therefore,                     (leave the reader thinking about how correct your stance is) .

ACCUPLACER Essay Practice

Be sure to write at least 2 sample essays before your exam. This will help you sharpen your skills and ensure that you are comfortable with the format. Have a teacher, friend, or mentor read through your exam and give you feedback. Use the links below to find our 2 practice ACCUPLACER essay prompts. As you write your practice essays try to follow the above template to the best of your ability:

Practice Essay 1

Practice Essay 2

Transition Words List

Agreement Words

• in the first place
• not only … but also
• as a matter of fact
• in like manner
• in addition
• coupled with
• in the same fashion / way
• first, second, third
• in the light of

Opposition Words

• in contrast
• different from
• of course …, but
• on the other hand
• on the contrary
• at the same time
• in spite of
• (and) still

Causation Words

• in the event that
• for the purpose of
• with this intention
• with this in mind
• in the hope that
• in order to
• … then

Example Words

• in other words
• to put it differently
• for one thing
• as an illustration
• in this case
• for this reason
• to put it another way
• that is to say
• with attention to

More Resources

We have plenty of additional resources to help you with your Accuplacer test prep. Check out both of our practice essays for more WritePlacer practice, or head over to our home page for a full-length practice test.

Accuplacer Practice Test

TSIA2 Practice Test

Our free TSIA2 practice tests will help you prep for the Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0. The TSIA2 is a placement test for students who are enrolling in public universities in Texas. Our website offers a full length practice test with challenging questions and detailed explanations.

The second edition of the Texas Success Initiative Assessment, the TSIA2, is a placement test administered by Accuplacer, which helps demonstrate a student’s college readiness in reading, writing, and math.

The TSIA2 Accuplacer assessments are multiple choice (other than the essay question), untimed, and computer adaptive, meaning that the questions become more or less challenging depending on how you perform. There are three tests with content as follows:

• The TSIA2 Math Test: The mathematics test covers quantitative reasoning, algebraic reasoning, geometric and spatial reasoning, and probabilistic and statistical reasoning.
• The TSIA2 ELAR: The English Language Arts and Reading test measures your reading and writing skills.
• The TSIA2 Essay Test: One randomly selected prompt will be delivered requiring a 300–600 word essay response. The essay will be evaluated on its purpose and focus, organization and structure, development and support, sentence variety and style, mechanical conventions, and critical thinking.

For both the ELAR and Math sections, test takers will begin with a College Readiness Classification Test (unless they have an exemption). Then, if they don’t meet the college readiness benchmark, they will be asked to take a follow-up diagnostic test to evaluate strengths and weaknesses.

To best demonstrate your college readiness and your skills in reading, writing, and math, it’s important to study and practice before your test. Get started today with our TSI practice questions!

TSI Essay Sample

Below is a high-scoring TSI sample essay for your review. This response is based on our TSI Practice Essay . We recommend that you type your own essay before you read this TSI essay example. Following the sample essay there is a commentary which explains why it would earn a high score.

TSI Sample Essay Commentary

This response would earn a score of 8. Even though the TSI essay is scored holistically (meaning as a whole, not by its parts), let’s look at a detailed explanation of how this essay scored well in each of the essay criteria:

Purpose and focus The writer begins their essay by introducing the problem, that schools are being forced to cut programs that they view as “non-essential.” This idea becomes the basis for the rest of the writer’s essay as they explore all the reasons why art classes should be considered “essential.” They address the problem head on, show that they understand the complexity of the issues, and take a stance. Throughout the essay, the writer uses effective examples to defend art classes, making sure to consistently refer back to the problem: people should value art classes. In the conclusion, the writer admits that core classes are also important (a point that would likely be argued by someone on the opposing side of this issue), but stresses the importance of art classes and even offers some potential solutions that would be acceptable by people on both sides of the argument.

Organization and structure The writer provides a traditional and extremely effective organization to their essay. Their introduction paints a portrait of the problem and offers a clear stance. The body paragraphs each provide a different reason that people should agree with the writer. The conclusion brings the argument to a nice finish with a concession and reaffirmation of the writer’s originally idea. Additionally, the writer uses effective transitions, like “as a matter of fact,” “not only do art classes…,” and “despite the benefits of…” to link their paragraphs together and make their writing fluid and convincing.

Development and support Each body paragraph contains a separate, but related, argument that effectively supports the writer’s main point. While the writer could have been more specific in their examples, they do a good enough job explaining each point that it is still very effective. The writer also varies their examples well, explaining how art classes can nurture innovative thinkers who improve society, how art classes help students with traditional critical thinking skills, and how art classes can help improve the morale and overall happiness of students. Varying their argument as such helps the writer convince even the harshest critics of art programs.

Sentence variety and style The writer uses varied sentence structure to craft a style that is engaging and convincing. The writer uses a very conversational tone to relate to the readers, but also makes sure to use elevated language to show readers that the writer’s opinion is valid and well thought-out.

Mechanical Conventions While this essay response may not be perfect, there are no noticeable mistakes in mechanics or conventions. The writer effectively displays their command of the rules of the English language.

Critical thinking This response displays a high level of critical thinking. The writer looks at several different angles when they approach the problem. For readers who may criticize art classes for being unimportant, the writer explains that independent and divergent thinking is what helps societies grow and develop. For readers who may laud core classes over all else, the writer discusses the critical thinking skills art students must develop and how these skills can be extremely helpful in core classes. The writer even discusses how art classes can help improve the mental health of students. By discussing the problem from many different perspectives, the writer is able to reach more readers and be far more persuasive.

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TSIA2 Test Prep

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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 Assessment Preparation

Additional practice, tsia2 practice.

TSIA2 Study :  https://tsia2. pearsonperspective.com Enter Pass Phrase:  TSIA2_edu

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TSI Study Resources

The following resources may help you prepare to take or re-take the TSI assessments.

TSI Study Handout

This printable handout contains testing tips and useful websites that may help you prepare for taking the TSI. Simply click on the QR codes on the page, and it will take you to an ELAR test, Math test, or combination of both. You can also scan the QR codes with a smartphone:

Accuplacer Practice tests and sample questions and essays are available at the College Board’s Accuplacer Website , you can download practice questions and sample essays, and sign up for the free web-based study app.

TSI Preparation Classes This Continuing Education TSI course is designed for students who have taken the TSI and not placed at the college ready level. The course prepares students with a review of topics that students need to know to successfully pass the Texas Success Initiative Assessment exam. Courses are taught by Collin College Math Faculty and are delivered online. Course schedule and registration information can be found here .

Learning Express TSI Resources EBSCO Learning Express offers TSI preparation practice exams for the ELAR, Essay and Math assessments. Follow these instructions for how to locate the resources and create an account.

Anthony Peterson Center for Academic Assistance (APCAA)

The APCCA on our campuses will be glad to help you review materials to prepare to take the TSI assessment for the first time, or to retake the assessment if you did not receive the score you wanted. For more information, go to the APCAA Website .

Learning Locator Code If you did not get the score you would like, and you would like to retake the TSI, you can review materials by using the Learning Locator Code (LLC) on your score report to enter the Math or ELAR code into this Website .

College Readiness Classes for the TSI Assessments This course is designed for students who did not receive a course placement after taking the TSI assessment. Classes are offered at the McKinney and Plano campuses in the evening. Must be a high school graduate to attend. Please visit www.collinael.com , call 972-349-4550 or email [email protected] to sign up for this free class.

Other Resources Here are a few other free websites that may provide you with additional practice activities related to the TSI. (Note: Collin College is not affiliated with these organizations and makes no claim as to the quality of the information they present.)

• https://www.mathhelp.com/tsia2-math-test-prep/
• https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/subjects/core-skills/
• https://edready.org/signup (sign up for an account or enter as a guest)
• https://uniontestprep.com/tsia2/practice-test
• https://www.hippocampus.org/
• https://www.khanacademy.org/
• https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra
• https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra2  (mastery of this course could help with placement into college-level math)

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TSI Assessment

FREE TSI & ESOL TESTING: APRIL 1st – AUGUST 31st! Please go to your nearest Testing Center to take advantage of this opportunity. No appointment needed. ACC application for admission required for new students to test for free.

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment is a state-required assessment test to determine college-readiness in reading, writing, and math. All entering students must take the TSI test before enrolling in classes unless you are exempt or “TSI-complete.”

1. Do I need to take the TSI Assessment?

To confirm you need to take the TSI Assessment, please scroll down this page to view TSI Exemptions.

2. Do I complete the Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA)?

• If you are an incoming college student in Texas, the State of Texas requires all students to complete a Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA) before taking the TSI Assessment. Note: If you are retesting for the TSI Assessment, are not required to redo the PAA.
• After you have reviewed all sections, you will receive an emailed Certificate of Completion​. Save this email for your records as we may require you to show proof of completion. Click here to begin the PAA .

3. How do I pay for the TSI Assessment. Can I see if I qualify for a fee waiver?

To purchase the TSI Assessment go to ACC’s Marketplace. Save this email for your records as we may require you to show proof of payment.

Fee Waivers

TSI / ESOL : You may also qualify for a TSI/ESOL fee waiver. Email the Financial Aid Office at [email protected] to find out whether you may be eligible for a waiver before paying the TSI/ESOL fee. A financial aid staff member will review the request and email you back. If approved, you will forward this email with all required documents to initiate the testing process. 

4. What if I need to test with accommodations?

The Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Office can help with accommodations for the TSI Assessment.

Note: The TSI 2.0 is not timed. There also is a “save and finish” option that allows you to pause for breaks or pause the testing session altogether to complete on another day. If you choose this option, you must log back in and complete the Math and ELR sections within 14 days of pausing. You must complete the essay portion of the assessment in one sitting; pausing to complete on another day is not allowed. There is also a virtual calculator built into the TSI 2.0 platform that has audio reader capabilities and is available once you complete the initial “basic math facts” portion of the Math section.

Request TSI Assessment Accommodations

If, after reviewing this information, you need additional accommodations please contact the intake coordinator at [email protected] .

Please contact the Business Assessment Office ( [email protected] ) if you need to take the TSI for another college or university with accommodations.

5. I'm ready to take the TSI Assessment. What do I do?

TSIA2 Learning Resources

Go to TSI Learning Resources Enter Pass Phrase: TSIA2_edu Register for FREE Accuplacer practice tests .

a. Bring a current government issued photo ID, or school issued photo ID, or an ACC photo ID in order to test. The photo ID MUST be a physical ID. If you do not have any type of picture ID, please contact [email protected] .

b. Bring proof of completion for the Pre-Assessment Activity if this is your first time taking the TSI assessment.

c. Bring proof of payment or fee waiver if applicable.

d. Assessment schedule

View the TSI Assessment Schedule

Virtual Remote TSI Testing Please email [email protected] to request virtual remote testing.

General TSI Information

Verify tsi status.

Check the list of TSI exemptions and score completions to determine whether you have already met TSI requirements in one or more areas (reading, writing, and math) or meet the criteria for an exemption.

TSI Exemptions/Waivers

You do not have to take the TSI Assessment if you:

• Graduated college with an associate or bachelor’s degree; or
• Have earned a C or higher in a college-level course at an accredited institution. The course must be equivalent to an ACC course on the  approved ACC TSI course list .
• Previously attended any accredited Texas public institution of higher education and was determined by that institution to have met TSI college readiness standards in that specified TSI component area.
• Are enrolling in a Level 1 waived certificate program and are taking courses only in the certificate award plan
• Are serving on active duty as a member of the armed forces of the U.S., the Texas National Guard, or as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the U.S. and have been serving for at least three years preceding enrollment. You are waived from the TSI Assessment.
• Are enrolling in ESOL courses only. ESOL only students are waived from the TSI exam. The waiver is removed after 15 credit hours are earned. ESOL only students should take the ESOL Assessment instead of the TSI Assessment
• On or after August 1, 1990, were honorably discharged, retired, or released from active duty as a member of the armed forces of the U.S. or the Texas National Guard or service as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the U.S.
• Have completed the SAT, ACT, GED, HiSET or other approved assessment exam with the minimum score needed for TSI exemption.

Test Score Exemptions

The following tests can be used to exempt you from one or more parts of the TSI Assessment. Tests must have been taken within the previous five years.

Minimum Scores Eligible for TSI Assessment Exemption 

• Scores from ACT tests taken before and after 2/15/23 can be combined.
• Mixing or combining scores from the SAT administered prior to March 2016 and the SAT administered March 2016 and later, is not allowed.
• HiSET will no longer administer tests after 8/31/2021 in Texas. Therefore, any tests taken after the 8/31/2021 test date will not be useable for the TSI exemption.
• The STAAR Algebra II and English III postsecondary readiness assessments are optional assessments for districts. Please verify with your local school district whether or not the assessment is offered.

TSI-Complete Scores

You have completed Texas Success Initiative requirements for a subject area if you earn the minimum score listed in the charts below.

State-Approved Minimum Scores to be TSI-Complete, effective January 11, 2021

State-Approved Minimum Scores to be TSI-Complete for assessment taken prior to January 11, 2021, (Good for 5 years from date of exam, if presented for placement and enrollment at any college or university within 5 years of the test date.)

*A placement score less than 340 and an ABE Diagnostic level of at least 4, and essay score of at least 5.

How to Submit Official SAT Scores to ACC

Scores must be sent to ACC directly from the College Board to be considered official. Official scores are needed to update a student’s record. 

Please visit the SAT website and request official scores to be sent to Austin Community College. Our school code is 6759.

How to Submit Official ACT Scores to ACC

Scores must be sent to ACC directly from ACT to be considered official. Official scores are needed to update a student’s record.

Please visit the ACT website and request official scores to be sent to Austin Community College District. Our school code is 4059.

How to Submit Official TSI Assessment Scores to ACC

If you have taken the TSI Assessment within the last 5 years at a testing site outside of Austin Community College, but within the state of Texas, please complete the Retrieve TSI Scores form here .

Sending TSI Scores from ACC to Another College/University

If your college or university needs your scores from a TSI taken at ACC, please submit the send TSI Scores form.

TSI Assessment Preparation

Complete the TSI Assessment Preparation if you need to take all or part of the assessment.

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Accuplacer TSI Practice

If you are looking for Accuplacer or TSI practice, you can find practice math and English prep questions on this website. TSI stands for Texas Success Initiative. It is a special version of the Accuplacer exam that is offered in the state of Texas.

TSI Pre-Algebra, Statistics, and Probability Quiz

TSI Algebra and Advanced Math Quiz

Is the Accuplacer the same as the TSI?

No arithmetic.

The Accuplacer test is not identical to the TSI because the TSI test does not include a section on arithmetic.

No trigonometry!

You may be relieved to know that the TSI also does not have questions on trigonometry, like those that can sometimes be found on the Accuplacer math exam.

No calculators!

On the accuplacer test, an on-screen calculator will pop up for some questions, but on the TSI calculators are not allowed. So you will need to get used to working out the solutions to the questions my hand on scratch paper.

Other skills for Accuplacer TSI Practice

Like the Accuplacer test, the TSI exam also has reading and writing sections.

Writing section

As with the Accuplacer, the writing section of the TSI assessment will have excerpts of practice essays that you need to correct or comment on. However, there will also be several questions on single, stand-alone sentences.

Reading assessment

In addition, the reading passages on the Texas Success Initiative assessment will often involve more than just comprehension, extending to things like argumentative and rhetorical effectiveness. However, many of the reading passages will be only brief passages with one question, like the examples below.

Reading comprehension example 1:

There are many unhappy people in the world today, but being happy is actually an attitude.  We have so much to be thankful for. Thank the taxi driver for bringing you home safely, thank the cook for a wonderful dinner, and thank the guy who cleans your windows.  When we give thanks to others whenever possible, we choose the path of gratitude that leads to the road to happiness.

The rhetorical structure of the passage above could be criticized for:

• (A) taking an oversimplified view of happiness.
• (B) claiming that people are not thankful enough.
• (C) describing certain people’s lack of self-discipline.
• (D) failing to mention the impact of worry on happiness.

The correct answer is A. Many people would probably argue that obtaining happiness is a complex process in today’s society. The writer of the passage above does not mention any of the external factors or complications that impede the achievement of happiness, like poverty or ill health. So the passage could be seen as somewhat one-dimensional or oversimplified.

Reading comprehension example 2:

Recent research shows that social media platforms may actually be making us antisocial. Survey results indicate that many people would prefer to interact on Facebook or Twitter, rather than see friends and family in person. The primary reason cited for this phenomenon was that one does not need to go to the effort to dress up and travel in order to use these social media platforms.

The writer of example passage 2 supports her claims by:

• (A) relying on research results rather than anecdotal information.
• (B) placing disproportionate emphasis on certain social media platforms.
• (C) talking about hand-held devices in particular, rather than wireless technology in general.
• (D) overlooking respondents’ personal preferences for seeing loved ones in person.

The correct answer is A. The writer of the passage describes”recent research” and “survey results” as evidence for the argument she is making. This is one of the best ways to support a claim in an essay. Note that answer options B, C, and D are written as criticisms, so these statements do not support the passage.

Now have a look at the writing test examples.

TSI writing example 1

(1) Before embarking on their voyage to America, the Pilgrims picked up some additional passengers in England. (2) After 65 days at sea, the Pilgrims reached America in December 1620. (3) The early days of their new lives were filled with hope and promise. (4) The harsh winter proved to be too much for some of the settlers. (5) Nearly half of the Pilgrims died during that first winter.

Where is the best place to insert the following sentence?

Plymouth, a town about 35 miles southeast of Boston in the New England state of Massachusetts, was established by the Pilgrims once they had settled in America.

• (A) After sentence 1
• (B) After sentence 2
• (C) After sentence 3
• (D) After sentence 4

The correct answer is B. In the Accuplacer / TSI practice passage above, sentence 2 speaks about the Pilgrims reaching America, and sentence 3 talks about their new life. Accordingly, the new sentence, which describes the establishment of Plymouth upon their settlement in America, fits best between sentences 2 and 3 because this placement gives the paragraph the best chronological flow.

TSI writing example 2

Instructions: Find the best replacement for the italics part of the sentence. f the sentence is correct as it is written, choose answer A.

In spite of he studied hard, he failed the exam.

• (A) In spite of he studied hard, he
• (B) In spite of studying hard, he
• (C) In spite of he studying hard, he
• (D) In spite of studied hard, he

The correct answer is B. The phrase “in spite of” must be followed by a noun or noun phrase. “In spite of” should not be followed by a clause, in other words a part of a sentence with a subject and a verb. The -ing form “studying” is used as a gerund or verbal noun in this sentence.

What’s on the TSI math test?

The TSI (Texas Success Initiative) math test has questions on statistics, data analysis, probability, algebra, advanced algebra, functions, geometry, and measurement.

There will be twenty questions on the test and you will not have any time limit.

You will take the test at a college or testing center on a computer. The test is computer adaptive, meaning that you will get only easy questions if you start to answer incorrectly. So be sure to take your time and do your best.

What kind of measurement questions will be included?

You will see basic geometry questions on the exam, such as understanding the laws or angles and triangles, calculating area and circumference of circles, and area and perimeter of other shapes.

Other measurement questions may ask you to make a conversion, such as converting inches to centimeters or miles to kilometers.

There may also be comparison type measurement questions, such as those asking you to determine the difference in the circumferences of two circles or the differences in the volumes of two individual containers.

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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

This is just a sample quiz. If you want more TSI practice exams, click here .

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

TSI Test Prep

Our team reviewed various TSI study guides and found that MathHelp.com offered the best materials to study for the TSI.

Official TSI Resources

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

TSI 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.

TSI 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.

TSI 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 January 5, 2024

Texas Success Initiative

Tsi tips and tricks, planning ahead, to get the best score....

To prepare for the TSIA2 test, please plan to dedicate several hours over a couple of weeks to refresh the math, reading, and writing skills that will be covered on the TSI assessment. Since many of the tested topics are taught as early as middle school, it has  probably been several years since you worked on questions like  these. Setting aside time to refresh your skills and knowledge may  help you get a higher score and ensure you are ready to begin college-level coursework. There are several TSI Assessment preparation resources available to help you prepare below.

First Step!

We w ant you to be successful in your college courses so the TSI test is an i mportant first step. The TSI test will assess your current skill levels in reading, writing, and math. Your TSI test scores will determine which courses you may enroll in at Texas Tech University. If you took the TSI assessment at your high school o r another institution, share your scores with TT U. If you did n ot share your scores with TTU, go to the Accuplacer Student Portal and download a copy of the Individual Score Report (ISR). Once you have a copy of your scores, use your TTU email and email the complete ISR as an attachment to the:

TSI Compliance Office

registrar.t [email protected]

Phone: (806) 834-4150

If you are a new student, you need to complete TSIA2 test BEFORE attending Red Raider Orientation. If you are a returning or transfer student, check with your counselor or advisor about whether or not you need to take (or retake) one or more parts of the TSI test.

Students can retake any portion of the TSIA2 test at any time. The best option is to retest BEORE you attend Red Raider Orientation if you hope to raise your score and reduce the number of TSI support courses you are required to enroll in for the semester.

Second Step! Test Taking Tutorials!

Things you need to know:.

Before you take the placement test, take time to refresh your reading, writing, and math skills so that you can do your very best on your test. You will find lots of helpful information about the placement test on our TTU TSI website . The links below are a quick reference tool if you are short on time to prepare for the TSIA2 test.

Calculator Tips on the TSIA 2 Test - 1 minute video

Highlighter Tips on TSIA 2 Test - 1 minute video

Accessibility Wizard on the TSIA 2 test - 1 minute video

What to Expect on the Math TSIA 2 Test - 4 minute video

Writing an Essay for the TSIA 2 - 15 minute video

Third Step! Take the Test!

Click here for Pre-Assessment Practice Resources

Click here to take the tsi pre-assessment activity - student login, tsia study resources, accuplacer student portal, how to prepare:.

Take advantage of free resources available to improve areas where your academic performance is not the strongest. Access free sample questions similar to those you'll see on the actual test.

Accuplacer Student Portal :

• TSIA2 Study App with practice resources and printable sample questions
• Tutorials showing you how to use the calculator and highlighter tools
• Test results and information about how to send test results to Texas public institutions of higher education
• Test Center Locator

TSIA2 Resource Library :

• Browse by subject area, level, and type of resource.
• On the right side of the page, there is a Welcome box.
• For students taking the assessment for the first time, please click the “Enter Student Site” blue button.
• Students who are retaking the assessment, please enter your Learning Locator Code (found on the diagnostic score report that you received upon completion of your test) for targeted resources based on your test performance.

Student Resources for TSI

Pearson math and elar resources and videos.

Resources to provide additional information for TSIA 2.0 Success

TSIA 2.0 Student Brochure

TSIA 2.0 English Language Arts & Reading Sample Questions

TSIA 2.0 Math Sample Questions

TSIA 2.0 Essay Test Guide

TSIA 2.0 Interpreting Your Score

TSI ELAR Crash Course - Day 1 Part 1 - TSI Reading Practice

TSI ELAR Crash Course - Day 1 Part 2 - TSI Reading Practice

TSI Writing Practice

TSI Essay Practice

TSIA 2 Math Hacks

Mometrix TSI Test Preparation Videos

TSIA 2.0 Test Blueprint and Linked Resources

Need to Schedule TSI exam? 

Texas tech academic testing services.

In order to streamline your appointment and provide a more relaxed testing experience, advanced registration is recommended. However, walk-ins are welcome.

TTU Testing Services

[email protected]

Phone: (806) 742-3671

Location: Room 214 West Hall

To take the TSI Assessment off-campus, go here for a voucher . Read the information provided and complete the Request for an Off-Campus TSI Testing Voucher.

NOTE: In order to avoid a delay in advising and class registration, it is recommended that you take the TSI assessment prior to your first day of orientation. The TSI exam is untimed and may take several hours to complete.

On the day of the exam bring these items with you to 214 West Hall:

• To schedule an appointment for the TSI exam, please contact us at 806-742-3671. You will make a $50.00 (non-refundable) payment to Texas Tech University with credit/debit card (NO CASH) through our online store. An email link will be sent to you. Payment must be made prior to your testing day.
• Appropriate photo ID is required at time of testing (driver's license, passport or other government ID with a current photo).
• Copy of your Pre-Assessment Activity Certificate of completion. Policies and Fees are subject to change.  

For more information regarding TSI Compliance, please visit the TSI Compliance Office website.

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Welcome to TSIA2

Administer and find resources for the Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2)

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