How to Write an Essay

Write an Essay

Tips on writing that all-important A-grade college essay

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CONTENTS
 

Answer the essay question

Make sure that you answer the question when writing an essay. If you are asked to assess, describe or discuss make sure you do assess, describe or discuss the essay question. When you look at the question set, concentrate on the key verb. For example:

 

Analyze

Break down into main ideas and discuss, examine or interpret the proposition.

 

Compare

Examine and identify similarities and differences, but concentrate on similarities.

 

Contrast

Examine differences and explain their relevance.

 

Compare &
Contrast

Examine both similarities and differences.

 

Criticize

Analyze and evaluate the subject critically, looking for weak points in the proposition. You may need to come to a judgment or conclusion based on your analysis and evaluation.

 

Define

Describe, explain and set the limits of the proposition.

 

Describe

Give a precise picture of the characteristics and qualities of the subject.

 

Discuss

Debate the pros and cons of the issue in the question, paying particular attention to areas of controversy or conflict.

 

Evaluate

Assess the proposition by looking at the information and expert opinion. Come to your own conclusions based on the evidence that supports the proposition.

 

Illustrate

Use examples, analogies, and comparisons to explain the proposition.

 

Interpret

Explain the meaning of the proposition, commenting on its effect and describing its relationship to data. Give examples. Evaluate its validity.

 

Outline

Describe main ideas, characteristics, information or events

 

Prove

Support with facts to agree with the proposition.

 

State

Produce the exact information asked.

 

Summarize

Give a brief account, concentrating of the conclusions reached from the proposition.

 

Trace

Describe and analyze the order of events or progress.

 

Warning: Dont fall into the trap of writing all you know about the subject 70 percent will be irrelevant and will not earn you any marks. Youll also find the irrelevant material detracts from the essential information contained in the essay.

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Essay Know your Essay Subject
Essay Structure your Essay to Help your Reader
Essay Answer the Essay Question
Essay Show your Analytical Skills
Essay Write in a Clear Style
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Use active verbs
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Keep your sentence length under control
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Use simple words
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Avoid jargon
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Avoid abstract terms
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Keep abbreviations under control
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Avoid Padding
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Use topic sentences
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Link your ideas and paragraphs
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Use examples to explain difficult points
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Use quotations in your writing
Essay Edit your Essay Draft
Essay StyleWriter editing software
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StyleWriter Demonstration
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Recommended Writing Software
Essay Internet Resources