7 tips for effective essay writing

Writing an impressive essay can be a difficult task.

In this blog post, we run through some tips for effective essay writing. It is worth noting that these tips are applicable to lots of different essays - English, History, Religious Education - amongst others.

1. Understand the question - This may seem like an obvious one, but it is important nonetheless. In order to understand the question, you have to break down its requirements. Are you being asked to compare/contrast? Are you being asked to describe, persuade or argue? Does the question require you to be impartial or can you share your opinion?

2. Do your research - You need to be an expert in your essay topic if you want to impress the reader with your knowledge. In order to do this, you must research your topic - find statistics, facts or quotations that are relevant to your topic. Remember: you must always acknowledge the source of your information. Otherwise, this may count as plagiarism.

3. Plan your answer - Decide how many paragraphs you need in order to be able to effectively answer the question. You must also decide on the main point that you will need to include in each paragraph.

4. Introduction - Grab the reader's attention. You might want to use one of the following in your introduction:

• An interesting fact

• An important piece of information

• A definition or explanation of a word/words in the question

• A rhetorical question

5. Main body paragraphs - Each paragraph should include a topic sentence which sums up the paragraph. The rest of the paragraph must then be focused on developing and illustrating the topic sentence. Make sure to use a mixture of long and short sentences. Use P.E.E. (Point ,Evidence, Explain) as a structural template. Make a brief point, select a quote/evidence to support it, and explain how your quote supports the point you are making. Use linking phrases in order to make clear transitions between your paragraphs, for example:

• Not only...also...

• Similarly...

• Moreover...

• On the other hand...

6. Conclusion - Your conclusion should be a recap of your main ideas as a summary of what you have written. This is your chance to leave a memorable impression in the reader's mind. You might want to end with:

• An interesting thought

• One strong statement that sums up your argument/main point of your essay

• A powerful/striking image

• Pose a question to the reader

7. Proofread - Without doubt, the most important tip for writing an effective essay is to proofread. Try and read through your essay at least twice before submitting. Make sure you polish your language as best you can. If you get the chance, try and get another person to read over your essay.