One of the Most Important Rules on the ACT® English: Simplest is Best

Introduction

On the ACT® English test, you'll be able to solve a lot of questions using a rule known as "Simplest is Best." This rule is all about choosing the most concise and clear expression of an idea. It's not just about brevity – it's about communicating effectively. Let's look at how this principle works and why it's crucial for acing the ACT® English section.

Why "Simplest is Best" Matters

The ACT® English section tests your ability to recognize and produce clear, concise, and effective writing. The "Simplest is Best" means you should write with the least amount of redundant information possible. This skill is useful not just on the ACT®, but also in academic and professional writing as well (and in your personal life!).

Recognizing "Simplest is Best" Questions

You'll start to recognize this rule as you practice more ACT® English questions. The key is to look for answer choices that express the same idea in different ways. When you see this pattern, look for the most concise option.

A Pop Culture Example

Let's consider an example using a popular figure:

Taylor Swift is the most amazing, awesomest, coolest singer in the world.

Here are some possible answer choices:

1. Taylor Swift is the most amazing musician in the world.
2. Taylor Swift is the coolest and awesomest singer in the world.
3. Taylor Swift is the most amazing and coolest singer in the world.
4. Taylor Swift is the coolest, awesomest, most amazing singer in the world.

Breaking Down the Choices

Let's analyze each option:

• A) This option is the most concise. It uses one strong adjective ("amazing") and avoids repetition.
• B) "Coolest" and "awesomest" are essentially saying the same thing. Plus, "awesomest" isn't a real word.
• C) Again, "amazing" and "coolest" are redundant. We don't need two adjectives for the same idea. This option is less concise than A.
• D) This is the most redundant of all, using three adjectives that all have the same meaning. It's the least concise option.

On the ACT, you'd choose option A. It communicates the idea clearly and concisely without repetition or non-standard language.

How to Apply the "Simplest is Best" Rule

1. Identify the core message: What's the main idea being expressed?
2. Look for redundancy: Are any words or phrases repeating the same idea?
3. Check for non-standard language: The ACT® prefers formal, standard English.
4. Choose the most concise option: Pick the answer that expresses the idea clearly with the fewest words.

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Don't fall into the trap of always choosing the shortest answer. The "Simplest is Best" rule doesn't mean "shortest is always best." Some students receive "Simplest is Best" as a "Get Out of Solving Questions" card. That's the wrong thing to do. You have to figure out what each question is asking. You still need to ensure that the answer you choose is grammatically correct and conveys the necessary information.

Conclusion

The "Simplest is Best" rule is a powerful tool in your ACT® English arsenal. As you practice, you'll start to spot these questions more easily, saving you time and boosting your score.

Key takeaways:

• Look for answer choices that express the same idea in different ways
• Choose the option that conveys the necessary information most concisely
• Avoid redundancy
• Don't sacrifice clarity or necessary information for brevity

Keep practicing this concept with various ACT® English questions. Over time, you'll develop a keen eye for identifying the most effective and concise expressions. This skill will not only help you excel on the ACT® but also improve your writing in school and beyond.