How to write your essay?

Write a first draft

Your first draft will help you work out:

• the structure and framework of your essay

• how you will answer the question

• which evidence and examples you will use

• how your argument will be logically structured.

Your first draft will not be your final essay; think of it as raw material you will refine through editing and redrafting. Once you have a draft, you can work on writing well.

Structure

Structure your essay in the most effective way to communicate your ideas and answer the question.

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All essays should include the following structure.

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Essay paragraphs

A paragraph is a related group of sentences that develops one main idea. Each paragraph in the body of the essay should contain:

• a topic sentence that states the main or controlling idea

• supporting sentences to explain and develop the point you’re making

• evidence from your reading or an example from the subject area that supports your point

• analysis of the implication/significance/impact of the evidence finished off with a critical conclusion you have drawn from the evidence

• a concluding sentence that restates your point, analyses the evidence, or acts as a transition to the next paragraph.

 See The Learning Centre guide Paraphrasing, summarising and quoting

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Tips for effective writing

• Start writing early —the earlier the better. Starting cuts down on anxiety, beats procrastination, and gives you time to develop your ideas.

• Keep the essay question in mind. Don’t lose track of the question or task. Keep a copy in front of you as you draft, edit and work out your argument.

• Don’t try to write an essay from beginning to end, especially not in a single sitting. Begin with what you are ready to write—a plan, a few sentences or bullet points. Start with the body and work paragraph by paragraph.

• Write the introduction and conclusion after the body. Once you know what your essay is about, then write the introduction and conclusion.

• Use 'signpost' words in your writing. Transition signals can help the reader follow the order and flow of your ideas.

• Integrate your evidence carefully. Introduce quotations and paraphrases with introductory phrases.

• Revise your first draft extensively. Make sure the entire essay flows and that the paragraphs are in a logical order.

• Put the essay aside for a few days. This allows you to consider your essay and edit it with a fresh eye.