·         First, think about the question. What do the key instruction words mean? What content is required?

·         Next, plan your answer. Jot down ideas and key points in logical order. These points will become the skeleton of the finished essay.

·         Now, think about evidence for each of these points. Can you support/illustrate them with examples? Jot down a few additional supporting details.

·         Then, write your introduction as a separate paragraph. Remember this should introduce and overview the whole question. Its style is important as it sets the tone for the rest of the essay.

·         Next, build up each planned point into a paragraph. Add ’flesh’ (details, evidence, examples, and comparisons) to that skeleton. Remember to be grammatical, formal, ‘un-waffly’ and concise. Think about literary style carefully.

·         Finally, having presented your key points, come back to the question as a whole and sum up your argument in a concluding paragraph. What was the most important point? What do you think about the question?

·         Now, if you’ve got some time, revise your essay.

The Revision Process

·         Go over the rough copy you prepared on the previous instructions with a red pen in your hand. Alternatively, discuss it with a fellow student, a parent, or the teacher. Bear the following points in mind as you refine and polish your first draft.

·         Tidy up grammar, spelling, punctuation.

·         Eliminate extra words or ‘padding’.

·         Rework sentence structure and work order.

·         Check paragraphing and organization.

·         Eliminate irrelevant content. Does your essay answer the question set?

·         Your teacher may have given you a list of the criteria on which your essay will be marked. Examine these. Does your essay measure up? Think about what particular skills you find most difficult.

·         And now finally rewrite the first draft into a form suitable for handing to your teacher.

·         Remember – although going through  this process every time you write an essay may seem time-consuming, it will soon pay dividends. Careful attention to technique now will mean that you can write very well in an initial draft by the end of your course. The secret of successful essay writing is practice.