- First, think about the question. What do the key 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 them with examples? Jot down a few additional details.
- At this point it is a good idea to draw a mind map or a plan.
- 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, comparisons) to that skeleton. Remember to be grammatical, aware of format, "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?
Final check list when writing assignments
- What do "they" want?
- Polish your first and last paragraphs. Make a neat, easy to read final copy on good paper. (Keep a copy in case of mishaps.)
- Give your assignment a separate title page, clearly stating the title (question) of your assignment, your name and your teacher's name.
- If typing your copy put it in 12 point or more.
- Write your bibliography alphabetically. See Writing Bibliographies)
Important:
- A good essay must be clearly focused on the topic.
- It must show evidence of wide and critical reading.
- It must present a logically arranged, well-reasoned argument.
- A 'formal' literary essay is written in the third person, for instance "The witches in Macbeth foretell tragedy". Do not write "I think.." or "I feel.." or "I'm writing this essay.."
- It does not contain contractions, for instance "don't".
- It is written in the present tense, for instance "Romeo and Juliet" contains all the elements of a soap opera".
- Use quotations to back up your points.
- Consult the section on How to Cite a Reference.
- Do not use headings or sub-headings.