TIPS FOR STELLAR ESSAYS

 

 

  1. Language
    1. Never use informal language, such as ÒthingÓ, Òloads ofÓ, Ògoing mentalÓ, Òbits ofÓ.
    2. Never use first person (ÒI believeÓ, ÒIn my opinionÓ, ÒWe seeÓ) or second person (ÒYou seeÓ or ÒYou feelÓ).
    3. Use sophisticated language.
    4. Eliminate needless words.

 

  1. Structure and flow
    1. Write a clear introduction that grabs the readerÕs attention, explains the topic, outlines the essay, and proposes a thesis.
    2. Use transitions between paragraphs to link key thoughts.
    3. Show a clear progression of thought.

 

  1. Thesis
    1. Construct a clear and concise argument that you prove in your essay.
    2. Include your thesis in your opening paragraph.
    3. Incorporate the points of your thesis into the body of your essay.

 

  1. Clear and direct answers
    1. Directly answer the question.
    2. Ensure that each paragraph (or point) refers back to the question or your argument.

 

  1. Quotations and examples
    1. Find supporting evidence, literature, or direct textual quotations to support your analysis.
    2. Attribute quotations to authors; plagiarizing is illegal, immoral, and makes your teachers cry.
    3. Include a relevant example or point to illustrate the main idea of each paragraph.
    4. Cite specific details; do not generalize!

 

  1. Comparisons and Links
    1. Show how different ideas are connected.
    2. Compare and contrast ideas, facts, philosophies, themes, examples, etc.

 

  1. Alternatives and Contrasts
    1. Suggest answers that differ from your proposed thesis; alternate perspectives add depth and complexity.
    2. Include varying perspectives (authors, schools of criticism) who may disagree with your point.
    3. Illustrate the insufficiency or inaccuracy of these perspectives to add further weight to your argument.

 

  1. Impact and Significance
    1. Integrate your essay with broader themes from your course.
    2. Explain the importance of your answer.

 

  1. Originality
    1. Show why your thesis is interesting.
    2. Use a novel approach to proving your thesis.
    3. Conclusion should summarize the main points of your essay, yet must include a new twist to leave the reader thinking.

 

  1.   Style
    1.  Use proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
    2.  If uncertain of what constitutes proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation, refer to this guide.

    Compiled by E.Bonapfel