Whether you’re writing an admissions essay or a paper for your English class, following a structure can make all the difference. A logical introduction, main body, and conclusion will help your essay get read.
But what’s more important than a good structure is excellent writing. The language in your essay should be fresh, full of sensory detail when appropriate, and propel your argument forward in refreshing ways.
Start with a strong thesis
Often, the first step in writing an essay is to come up with a strong thesis statement. A strong thesis statement shows that you can research and think critically about the topic.
It also gives the reader a sense of what you will be discussing and why it is important to them. A strong thesis statement usually comprises a few sentences that outline the basic argument and justifications for that argument.
It is essential to keep your thesis statement in mind as you write the rest of your essay, especially when it comes to making sure your arguments support that one central point. Avoid tangents that might distract your reader and make it hard for them to follow your argument.
Be concise
An excellent essay has specific points, precise words, and smaller paragraphs that don’t ramble. It’s also easy to read and understand by someone uneducated about your topic.
Using background information connecting your topic and life can help you develop an interesting and memorable essay. This will make your audience want to read more and learn new facts about your story.
Your argument may have a specific point you must explain in detail, but you don’t want to overwhelm the reader with your knowledge. Instead, you want to provide the reader with a clear explanation of why that point is relevant and why it matters.
Avoid tangents
While tangents are important to some writing styles, they should be avoided as much as possible. Instead, make sure to stay on topic and focus on the main arguments for your essay.
When you’re tempted to go off on a tangent about something interesting, consider whether it directly supports your main thesis or not. If it’s not relevant, then delete it. If it is, save it for a different article or topic.
This way, you’ll be able to focus on the main argument while still allowing yourself to use a bit of creativity. Ultimately, a good essay will help you build a strong story that draws the reader in and keeps them interested from start to finish.
Be specific
When writing an essay, you want to make sure that your topic is interesting and your argument clear. To do this, you should use specific details that support your argument.
This can include historical facts, numerical data, and descriptions of places and people. These facts help engage your readers and demonstrate that you have done your research.
You can also make your essay interesting by asking rhetorical questions. This will keep your reader interested in your words and make them think of their own questions.
Make it interesting
Writing a great essay requires more than just tackling a topic or responding to a question. It also requires a strong thesis, which is the main idea that drives your writing and supports your arguments.
A strong thesis should be supported by justifications and/or a method or framework. This will keep your essay focused and avoid straying from your overarching argument.
Getting distracted during the writing process is very easy, so it’s important to ensure your essay stays on track. This means eliminating unnecessary tangents and asides, which can increase word count without adding much value.
