What Is the TASC?
The TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) is a high school equivalency (HSE) exam developed by Data Recognition Corporation (DRC) as an alternative to the GED. Like the GED, passing the TASC earns you a state-issued high school equivalency diploma that is recognized by employers and colleges nationwide.
The TASC was introduced in 2014 when several states sought a more affordable alternative to the newly redesigned (and more expensive) GED. It covers five subject areas — Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies — and is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats, making it accessible to test-takers who may not be comfortable with computers.
Dr. Donnelly is the author of "TASC For Dummies" (Wiley), one of the best-selling TASC preparation books on the market. His deep expertise in the TASC exam format and scoring system informs every tutoring session.
The Five TASC Subject Tests
The TASC is divided into five independently scored subtests. You must pass each one to earn your diploma. Here is what each subtest covers and how long you have to complete it.
Reading
Time: 75 minutes
Questions: ~50 multiple choice
Tests your ability to comprehend, analyze, and evaluate literary and informational texts. Passages are drawn from fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and workplace documents. You will encounter questions about main idea, supporting details, vocabulary in context, author's purpose, and text structure.
Writing
Time: 105 minutes (65 min multiple choice + 40 min essay)
Questions: ~50 multiple choice + 1 essay
The multiple-choice section tests grammar, sentence structure, organization, and usage. The essay portion requires you to write an argumentative or informational essay in response to a prompt, scored on a scale of 2 to 8 based on development, organization, language use, and conventions.
Mathematics
Time: 105 minutes (55 min calculator + 50 min no calculator)
Questions: ~52 mixed format
Covers number operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, and statistics. The test is split into two parts: one section allows a calculator (provided on-screen for computer testing), and one section does not. Question formats include multiple choice, gridded response, and constructed response.
Science
Time: 75 minutes
Questions: ~47 mixed format
Assesses knowledge in life science, physical science, and earth and space science. Questions are based on passages, graphs, charts, and experimental data. You will need to interpret scientific information, evaluate experimental design, and apply scientific reasoning.
Social Studies
Time: 75 minutes
Questions: ~47 mixed format
Covers U.S. history, world history, civics and government, geography, and economics. Questions are based on primary sources, maps, political cartoons, charts, and informational passages. You must analyze historical documents and apply social studies concepts.
How Is the TASC Scored?
The TASC uses a scaled scoring system for each of its five subtests. Understanding the scoring will help you set goals and know exactly where you stand.
Score Scale & Passing Thresholds
Each TASC subtest is scored on a scale with a maximum of 800 points. The minimum passing score is 500 on each subtest. You must pass all five subtests to earn your high school equivalency diploma.
Your raw score (number of correct answers) is converted to a scaled score using statistical equating, which ensures fairness across different test editions. This means a passing score of 500 represents the same level of knowledge regardless of which form of the test you took.
Unlike the GED, the TASC does not have "honors" or "college ready" tiers above the passing score. You either pass or you do not, though a higher score can still be meaningful on your transcript.
Essay Scoring
The Writing subtest includes an essay scored on a scale of 2 to 8 by trained human raters. To pass the Writing subtest overall, you must meet the minimum passing score of 500 on the multiple-choice portion and score at least a 2 on the essay.
The essay is evaluated on four traits:
- Development of ideas — depth, specificity, and quality of supporting details
- Organization — logical structure, transitions, coherence
- Language use — sentence variety, word choice, tone
- Conventions — grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization
A score of 4 or above on the essay is considered proficient. Dr. Donnelly's tutoring includes extensive essay practice with detailed feedback on all four scoring traits.
Computer-Based vs. Paper-Based Testing
Computer-Based Testing (CBT)
Most TASC testing centers now offer the computer-based version. The interface is straightforward: questions appear on screen, and you click to select answers or type responses. A built-in calculator is provided for the calculator-allowed math section. The computer-based test allows for immediate scoring of the multiple-choice sections — you will typically receive your scores within a few business days.
If you are unfamiliar with computer-based testing, practice with the free TASC online practice test available through your state's testing website. This will familiarize you with the interface and reduce test-day anxiety.
Paper-Based Testing (PBT)
One of the TASC's key advantages over the GED is that it is still available in paper-and-pencil format in many testing locations. This is a significant benefit for test-takers who are more comfortable working with physical test booklets and answer sheets.
The paper-based version covers the same content and has the same time limits as the computer-based version. The only difference is the delivery method. Scores from paper-based tests may take slightly longer to process (typically one to two weeks).
Which States Use the TASC?
The TASC is accepted as a high school equivalency pathway in several states. While the GED remains the most widely available HSE test, the TASC has been adopted by states seeking a lower-cost, flexible alternative. States that have used the TASC include:
- California
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Texas
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
Note: State HSE test offerings change periodically. Check with your state's Department of Education for the most current information.
Proven TASC Preparation Strategies
1. Know the Format
Familiarity with the test structure eliminates surprises on test day. Take the official TASC practice test to understand question types, time limits, and the on-screen calculator interface. Dr. Donnelly's TASC For Dummies provides hundreds of practice questions organized by subject.
2. Master the Essay
The essay is often the most intimidating part of the TASC. Practice writing timed essays (40 minutes) using a clear five-paragraph structure: introduction with thesis, three body paragraphs with evidence, and a conclusion. Focus on developing your ideas fully rather than writing as much as possible.
3. Build Math Foundations
Mathematics is the subject where most TASC test-takers struggle. Start with arithmetic fundamentals and work up to algebra and geometry. Make sure you are comfortable with fractions, percentages, and word problems before tackling more advanced topics.
4. Read Actively
Both the Reading and Social Studies subtests rely heavily on passage comprehension. Practice reading newspaper articles, editorials, and historical documents actively — summarize paragraphs in your own words, identify main ideas, and note the author's purpose.
5. Learn to Read Data
Science and Social Studies questions frequently include graphs, charts, and tables. Practice extracting information from visual data: identify trends, compare values, and draw conclusions. This skill alone can boost your score significantly across multiple subtests.
6. Get Expert Help
Private tutoring with Dr. Donnelly gives you a personalized study plan built around your specific strengths and weaknesses. As the author of TASC For Dummies, he knows exactly what the test demands and how to prepare you efficiently.