Praxis Core Writing Practice Test: Free Questions & Essay Samples

Thinking about becoming a teacher? Then you’ve probably heard about the Praxis Core Writing Practice Test. This exam is one of the first big steps toward getting your teaching certification, especially for elementary and middle school educators.

It checks if you have the writing skills needed to teach effectively—and that’s a pretty big deal.

The Praxis Core Writing Test focuses on grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, word usage, and—yes—essay writing. You’ll tackle multiple-choice questions and write two essays that show how well you can organize and express your thoughts.

But here’s the good news: you can absolutely crush this test with the right prep. And the best way to get started? Practice, practice, practice. A solid Praxis Core Writing practice test helps you learn the format, boost your confidence, and improve your timing.

So let’s dive into how you can master the Praxis Core Writing test—starting with free Praxis Core Writing practice tests, expert tips, and zero stress.

Start your Praxis writing test prep today with Prepsaret practice tests, expert advice, and helpful resources like a Praxis Core Writing study guide.

What to Expect on the Praxis Core Writing Test

Before you jump into Praxis writing practice online or essays, it’s super helpful to know what you’re signing up for. Understanding the layout of the test can help you create a smart study strategy and avoid surprises on test day.

Praxis Core Writing Test Format and Sections Explained

The Praxis Core Writing (5723 practice test) includes two main parts:

Selected-Response Questions (aka multiple choice) test your knowledge of grammar rules, punctuation, sentence structure, and word choice. 

You’ll read short passages and choose the best edits or corrections—perfect for Praxis Core Writing multiple choice practice. Think of it as polishing up sentences to make them classroom-ready.

Constructed-Response Questions (aka essays) requires you to write two essays: one argumentative and one explanatory. In the argumentative essay, you’ll take a position on a topic and support it with logical reasoning. 

The explanatory essay asks you to explain an idea or concept clearly, using examples to help the reader understand your point. Practicing with Praxis writing essay practice questions can sharpen your skills in both formats.

The test gives you 100 minutes total:

• 40 minutes for the multiple-choice questions
• 60 minutes for the essays (30 minutes for each)

There are 40 selected-response questions and 2 essay tasks. Each section is designed to test different writing strengths. 

The multiple-choice part measures your ability to revise and edit written English. The essay section checks how well you can organize ideas, use proper structure, and make your argument or explanation clear.

The test is scored on a scale from 100 to 200, and while the exact passing score can vary by state, most require a score around 162. 

Both your grammar knowledge and your ability to write under time pressure count. Reviewing Praxis Core Writing test questions regularly is one of the best ways to prepare.

Free Praxis Core Writing Practice Tests You Can Try Today

Want to feel confident on test day? Start practicing now. A Praxis Core Writing practice test free resource is one of the best tools you can use—they help you get familiar with the types of questions, the timing, and the skills you’ll need to show off.

Plus, they give you a sneak peek into what the real exam feels like—without the pressure of a score that counts.

Related blog post: English Praxis Practice Test: Prepare with Real Sample Questions

Praxis Core Writing Practice Test PDF and Printable Resources

Sometimes, the best prep comes from good old paper. Downloadable and printable Praxis Core Writing practice test PDFs are available from several top sources. Look for tests that come with answers so you can check your progress:

• ETS, the official site of the Praxis test, offers free Praxis Core Writing practice test PDFs and sample questions.
• Teacher prep websites like Prepsaret and 240Tutoring often provide downloadable PDFs with full-length Praxis Core Writing practice tests with answers.
• Study.com and Teachers Test Prep provide additional options for offline use.

Studying offline can be super helpful if you’re easily distracted by notifications or social media. Set a timer, grab your printed test, and practice like it’s the real thing. This helps build stamina and teaches you how to pace yourself—because 30 minutes per essay flies by fast.

And here’s a tip: recreate a test-like setting when you study. That means no phone, no snacks, and no Netflix in the background. Just you, your pencil, and the Praxis Core Writing practice test. It’s not exactly a party, but it does help boost your performance big time.

Best Online Tools for Praxis Core Writing Test Preparation

Studying for the Praxis Core Writing test doesn’t have to be boring or stressful. In fact, using the right online tools can totally change how you study.

Online platforms can fill in the gaps that textbooks might miss. They offer real-time feedback, sample questions, and bite-sized lessons you can use anywhere — even from your phone while waiting for coffee.

Using Praxis Core Writing Practice Tests from Prepsaret and Quizlet

Let’s talk about two powerful tools: Prepsaret and Quizlet.

Prepsaret is a lifesaver for grammar and writing lessons. They break down confusing concepts into short, helpful videos and practice questions—just the thing for brushing up on your weak spots using a solid Praxis writing study guide.

Then there’s Quizlet. It’s great for flashcards, short quizzes, and even peer-shared content created by other test takers. You can search for “Praxis Core Writing practice test Quizlet” sets or make your own to test what you’ve learned.

Want something even more interactive? Try Praxis Core Writing practice test Khan Academy content for additional guided instruction and practice.

Here’s a smart tip: use Prepsaret to learn the material, then switch to Quizlet to drill it daily. That combo gives you both deep understanding and quick recall — just what you need for test day.

Try setting aside just 20–30 minutes each day. It adds up fast, and you’ll be amazed how much you remember after a week.

Read on: Praxis Score Release Dates: When and How to Check Your Scores

Praxis Core Writing Essay Practice: Tips and Sample Prompts

The writing section isn’t just about grammar — you’ll also need to write two essays. And yes, it’s totally possible to prepare for them ahead of time with focused Praxis Core Writing preparation strategies.

You’ll write:

• One Argumentative Essay, where you’ll take a side and explain your reasoning.
• One Informative/Explanatory Essay, where you’ll explain a topic clearly and in detail.

You can find free Praxis writing prompts and sample Praxis writing test questions on the official ETS website, or even in some free prep guides online. 

These examples are gold — they help you understand what kinds of questions to expect and how to respond in your Praxis Core Writing exam practice.

Here’s how to practice smartly:

• Plan first – take 3–5 minutes to brainstorm and make a quick outline.
• Write a clear thesis – your main point should be easy to spot.
• Support your ideas – use examples, facts, or real-life logic.
• Stay organized – make sure your paragraphs flow well.
• Watch your grammar – spelling and structure count, big time.

Essays are scored based on things like clarity, structure, supporting details, and grammar accuracy. 

Practicing regularly with these points in mind and reviewing Praxis Core Writing practice essays can hugely improve your score and teach you how to pass the Praxis Core Writing test with confidence.

Check this out: Free Praxis Practice Test: Praxis Core Questions & Answers

Mastering Praxis Core Writing Multiple Choice Questions

Let’s not forget the other half of the test — multiple choice questions. This is where understanding the Praxis Core Writing test format is key.

You’ll face a mix of:

• Sentence Correction (What’s wrong with this sentence?)
• Grammar and Usage Errors (Is this subject-verb agreement okay?)
• Revision in Context (What’s the best way to improve this paragraph?)

Here’s how to handle them like a pro:

• Use process of elimination – cross off answers that clearly don’t fit.
• Look for patterns – most grammar questions test the same 5–6 rules.
• Don’t overthink – often, the simplest answer is correct.
• Watch the clock – don’t spend too long on one question.

You’ll get better over time if you practice with explanations — not just answers. That way, you actually learn from your mistakes instead of guessing. 

Use Praxis Core Writing sample questions and full practice tests for the Praxis writing section to simulate real exam conditions.

Keep an eye out for tricky traps like run-on sentences or vague pronouns. A short daily grammar quiz can help you spot these fast and build your confidence. 

Practicing with the best Praxis writing practice tests gives you exposure to a variety of question types and teaches you how to stay sharp.

Find out: How Long Do Praxis Scores Take?

How to Study for the Praxis Core Writing Test and Pass on Your First Try

Let’s talk about your study plan and how to make it count.

You don’t need to study for months — most people can prep in 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how much grammar and writing they remember from school. If you’re wondering how to pass the Praxis Core Writing test, here’s your week-by-week plan:

• Week 1: Focus on grammar skills with Prepsaret or other videos
• Week 2: Add in essay writing practice using real prompts
• Week 3: Do full-length Praxis Core Writing exam practice tests
• Week 4 (Optional): Review trouble areas and go over test strategies

Remember: consistency beats cramming. Even 20 minutes a day makes a difference.

Make it a mix of essay writing, grammar drills, and full-length tests to cover all angles. Use online Praxis Core Writing test platforms or printable resources — whatever works best for your learning style.

Want something printable? Grab a PDF study guide or Praxis Core Writing practice test PDF online and go old-school. Prefer interactive tools? Try online simulators or study apps like Prepsaret, Magoosh, or UWorld for targeted Praxis Core Writing preparation.

And don’t go it alone. Join a study group, ask questions in online forums, or even pair up with a study buddy. Accountability makes studying more fun — and it helps you stay on track.

Hot Tip: Using our best Praxis writing practice tests and practice test for Praxis writing section resources can shorten your study timeline and boost your confidence on test day.

Continue reading: Best Praxis Study Resources: Top Books, Courses & Free Tools

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