No, you cannot skip the essay (called the Extended Response) on the GED test. It is a required part of the Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) section and counts toward your overall RLA score.
Why It’s Required
- Time: You get 45 minutes to plan, write, and edit a response to a prompt.
- Task: Analyze 1–2 short passages (e.g., editorials, speeches) and write a clear, evidence-based argument.
- Scoring: Human scorers evaluate three traits (0–2 points each):
- Argument creation (thesis + logic)
- Development & support (evidence from texts)
- Language & conventions (grammar, clarity)
- Impact: The essay is ~20% of your RLA score. Skipping it drops your trait scores to 0, making it nearly impossible to pass the RLA section (minimum 145).
No Opt-Out Option
GED Testing Service does not allow skipping the Extended Response. Even if you excel on multiple-choice questions, a zero on the essay risks failing the entire RLA module.
Tips to Pass Quickly
- Template (10 min plan, 30 min write, 5 min edit):
- Intro: Restate prompt + 1-sentence thesis.
- Body 1: Agree/disagree + 1 quote + explain.
- Body 2: Counterpoint + rebuttal.
- Conclusion: Restate thesis + call to action.
- Word count: Aim for 300–400 words (4–5 paragraphs).
- Practice: Use official GED prompts at ged.com; score with the rubric.
Key takeaway: Treat the essay as a 45-minute hurdle you must clear. Master the template, cite the texts, and you’ll pass.