Writing essays can be quite challenging for students how don’t understand or have never learned all of the fundamental rules of proper structure. Using essay examples is a great way to mirror what better writers have done in the past and works. This method is actually encouraged by most educators as it builds discipline and a strong understanding of complicated rules by simply observing what a well-structured work should look like. We’re going to focus, however, on how to write an essay and structure it on your own using five simple steps:
Determine the Kind of Essay You Need to Write
Don’t try to jump into the project without fully understanding what is being asked of you. Reread the prompt and highlight/underline key terms that provide direction. Then think about the style of essay you are required to write (e.g., argumentative, narrative, descriptive, etc.). This exercise should also get you to start thinking about possible topics.
Research Your Content and Develop a Thesis
Most teachers provide a list of approved essay topics to write about. However, you are almost always encouraged to think of a topic on your own and to request approval to pursue it (you must demonstrate that it meets the requirements and is equally challenging). Research your material and develop a thesis draft. This will likely change later when you write a first draft but for now serves as a guiding compass.
Identify Your Main Points and Create an Outline
Review your research notes along with your draft thesis statement. Identify the three best points you have in support of the central argument and create a 5-paragraph outline to structure your essay. This consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Fill in statements/phrases to each appropriate place in the outline and refer to it as you write the first draft.
Free Write the First Draft without any Structure
Now it’s time to get some writing started. Your first draft should be written as quickly and efficiently as possible. This means that you shouldn’t bother making corrections or trying to come up with the right wording to express ideas; just keep writing whatever pops into your head as it appears and at the end you’ll have a solid first draft to build on.
Revise Material and Apply Appropriate Structure
Finally, spend a few days away from your draft and then return to it to make revisions. The break in between lets you approach your writing from a fresh perspective. You’ll be able to more readily spot areas in your writing and argument that need improvement. When revising, keep the assignment’s structure in mind. Use a sample essay to help guide your adjustments to ensure you stick to the rules.
You probably don’t need to be reminded about the importance of writing several drafts before submitting an assignment for a grade. The final draft needs to be fully edited and proofread by you and by another person – preferably somebody who is experienced with academic writing. There are several places on the web that can provide you with a critical review of your material and ensure you have used the proper essay format necessary for a good grade. Essay writing help is easy to find on the web, you just need to conduct some research to ensure you work with an agency that has a long reputable history and has built a large base of satisfied customers.