Essay Writing Help

What is an Essay? Simply put, an essay is an organized collection of your thoughts on a particular topic. For instance, this article is, in fact, an essay on “What is an Essay?”In academia, essay topics are often assigned. Yet, just as frequently, topics are chosen because the writer has interest or expertise in the subject. Writers use essays to:

Describe or define a subject (What is an Essay?) Compare related items in a subject (The Difference

Between Apples and Oranges) Show cause and effect (If You Write It, They Will Read) Write a narrative (My Summer Vacation) Explain a process (How to Write an Essay) Deliver an argument (The Case Against Essay Questions) Critique (My Least Favorite Movie)

Essays can be either long or short, serious or humorous, formal or informal. It can describe your opinions or be a synopsis of expert opinions. The trick to writing a good one is to stay on topic. Because the essay title is the topic, in an index of essays the reader should be able to choose an essay based on the title, but then… that’s another topic!

Start with the Essay Writing Guide

Essay Writing Guide1. Essay Writing Process2. Writing a Thesis Statement3. Essay Outline 4. Essay Writing Format5. Final Steps to Writing an Essay

Essay Writing Articles

Essay Citations | The Five-Paragraph Essay | Essay Writing Tips | Essay Test StrategiesEssay TypesPersuasive | Critical | Narrative/Personal | Descriptive | Reflective | Argumentative | Compare and ContrastCause and Effect | Research | Expository/Informational | College Admissions

Essay Writing Process

Your essay will lead your reader through your organized thoughts on a single topic. Before you begin writing your essay, it's a good idea to understand the nuts and bolts of essay writing. Learn about the different steps of essay writing and how to both outline and format your essay. Knowing the basics makes the essay writing process easier.

Brainstorming Your EssayWhether the topic is your choice or it is assigned, a good way to begin the essay writing process is to brainstorm.

An easy way to start brainstorming is to use a list or a tree (example below). Another popular brainstorming technique is to radiate your ideas out from the center of a circle. Start with a title. If the topic was assigned, use the topic as your brainstorming title, such as "Essay on Advertising" or "Essay on Logical Thinking". If you need to choose a topic, use the reason you are writing the essay as your brainstorming title, such as "Personal Experience Essay" or "Essay for History".

Brainstorming is creating a list of whatever comes to mind. For instance, a list on "Essay on Advertising" might look like this: 

Essay on AdvertisingCommon definitions/synonyms- Persuasion- Getting the word out- Promoting products/services

Typical related concepts/words- Marketing companies- Targeted campaigning- Target audiences

Tactics- Fear associations- Nonequivalent emotional associations

- Happiness- Health- Security

- Love/Companionship- Popularity- Success/Wealth- Status/Fame- Adventure- Patriotism

- Bandwagon- Build of cultural perspective

Used by- Companies- Organizations- Politicians- Any supplier

Methods- Product placement- TV ads- Merchandising- Word of mouth- Social networking pages- YouTube ads- Sponsorships: Athletic, good cause, community event

Ethics- Influencing children- Negative personal attacks - Create a society that confuses needs and wants

After you have brainstormed your essay, choose an idea and ask yourself:

1. How is this idea in line with the subject matter? Advertisers use many psychological tactics to persuade viewers.

2. Can I create an interesting title and strong thesis/premise from this idea? "Advertising: What You Don’t Realize"

3. Where can I find the evidence I need to support this idea? Internet sites, books about advertisement trends, marketing blogs/forums, watching television commercials, movie trailers.

4. What type of evidence might support my premise? Marketing critics, awards in best advertisements, advertisement news articles.

5. What conclusion can I draw from this idea? What techniques audiences should be aware of while viewing advertisements.

6. Which type of essay would work best with this idea?o A descriptiono A comparisono Cause and effecto A narrativeo Explaining a processo An argumento A critique

Start writing an essay with an outline, using the different elements of your essay as a template.

Title: Your topic (e.g. "Advertising: What You Don’t Realize?")

Introduction: Premise and Supporting Points. Body

o Point 1: Supporting Evidenceo Point 2: Supporting Evidenceo Point 3: Supporting Evidence

Conclusion: How your evidence led you to your conclusion Works Cited

The Essay IntroductionThe introduction is the first paragraph of your essay and introduces the essay topic to your reader. Although your essay topic serves as your title, it isn't necessary to repeat it in your essay introduction. The essay introduction presents your topic and tells the reader what supporting points follow within the essay body.

For example: Advertising influences many decisions people make in modern society, yet people rarely stop to consider the affects of its influence. A passive TV viewer is told how to live life from television ads, but a smart consumer holds the power over their own decisions. Advertisers use many tactics that tell audiences that they need more products and services. By understanding advertising techniques, passive viewers can turn into smart consumers and decide for themselves where their hard earned money is spent.

The Essay BodyThe body is where you develop the topic that you introduced in your introduction. Start a new paragraph every time you discuss a new point. Make the body "flow" by introducing the next paragraph of your essay at the end of the previous one. When you're satisfied that you have made your points, move on to the essay conclusion.

If you are using outside sources, cite your sources and add them to your works cited page as you use them.

The Essay ConclusionAlthough it's often overlooked, the conclusion is an important part of your essay. It's the last paragraph of your essay and your last chance to drive home your point of view as well as an indicator of how well you've organized your thoughts. Generally the conclusion is a summary of your essay body and/or any closing thoughts or ideas.

Once you are sure that your essay "makes your point" and that you have caught and corrected any errors in formatting, spelling, punctuation, and grammar, your "first draft" magically becomes your finished essay.

Writing a Thesis Statement

What is a Thesis Statement?Although every well-written essay has an introduction, a thesis statement not only introduces your topic but also alerts the reader to your conclusion. An essay introduction may be an announcement, a statement of fact, or just an observation, while a thesis statement is an assertion that defines the point (or argument) of your essay. A thesis statement is your answer to the question your essay explores.

For example, think of a thesis statement as the opening statement in a trial. The question is "who done it?" As the prosecuting attorney, your thesis statement lays out your case for your reader, the jury. The defendant had motive, opportunity, and access to the weapon or method used to commit the crime. Your opening statement or thesis introduces this evidence to your reader. The trial (body of your essay) supports your evidence and proves the validity of your argument.

A Good Thesis Statement Follows Certain Criteria:

It is easily identifiable: It clearly defines what follows in the essay body and tells the reader what to expect from the rest of your essay.

It is narrow: It brings focus to the central point of your essay. It is an assertion: It "takes a stand" on a certain subject and shows the strength

of your argument. It is specific: It is the conclusion that is supported point by point in the body of

your essay.

Advantages of Using a Thesis StatementJust as a thesis statement puts your paper into focus for the reader, it can also help you to organize and develop your argument by describing the main point of your paper in one or two sentences. As you write your paper, your thesis statement can serve as a reference that keeps your paper on topic.

A thesis statement can serve as a short outline of your topic. It asks the question, gives the answer, and introduces your evidence in the order it will be presented.

Exploring the Thesis StatementExample 1: "Miss Rose, who is a notorious criminal and a three-time loser, mugged Professor Plum in the library with the bookends."

Example 1 is not a thesis statement. Although it is an assertion, it does not clearly define what is to follow in the body of the essay and it is unsupported by any evidence.

Example 2: "Although Miss Rose appears clueless, her nail file and stiletto heels are the evidence that it was she who broke into the library and literally put her enemy, Professor Plum, in between two heavy copper book-ends.

Example 2 is a well-structured thesis statement that:1. Identifies your argument2. Is specific3. Is narrow (stays on topic)4. Is an assertion

Also, note that example 2 uses an introductory clause to acknowledge that there is another "side" to the argument (Miss Rose appears to be clueless). This is a frequently employed technique that both identifies and attempts to negate an alternative theory, even using it to make your argument appear stronger.

The body of this essay would provide the details that connect Miss Rose's nail file and shoes to the crime, thereby proving that she was the culprit.

Thesis Statement MisconceptionsAlthough a thesis statement is typically at the end of the first paragraph of the essay introduction, it can be presented in the opening sentences of your essay or it may need one or more paragraphs of introduction. In addition, although some thesis statements may be presented in a single sentence, others may need two or more sentences to state your position. More important than length or position is that it is easily identifiable and clearly states your position.

While it's always great to have three or more points to support your argument, if you can do it in two... well, less is more sometimes. Just be sure that whatever evidence you present, relates directly to your thesis statement and clearly supports your conclusion.

A thesis statement can frustrate many writers because they believe the thesis must be definitive before the paper is written. However, more often than not you'll find that as you write the arguments that support your position, your thesis will evolve. In some cases, you may find that in writing the arguments, your position will be completely reversed! Pat yourself on the back for being so persuasive and redefine your thesis statement to express your new position! Use a thesis statement to organize your essay for yourself and your readers. Let it be the guide that focuses your thoughts, introduces your argument and your evidence and helps prove your case beyond a reasonable doubt!

Essay Outline

Have you ever told a joke and just before coming to the punch line, remembered the part in the middle that makes the punch line funny? Using an essay outline helps you organize your thoughts so that you don't make that mistake. In addition, you'll find the more structured your outline is, the better organized and easier to write your essay will be. A well-structured essay outline helps you travel from point to point in your composition, creating a natural flow for the reader until you bring the "punch line" home in the summary or conclusion.

Begin your outline by deciding whether to use the more traditional I, II, III, and IV outline markers, use headings w/o any markers or a combination of both. The title should be at the top of your paper and everything else will fall below it.

I. The Introduction - why you chose this topic or your premise /thesis and/or the conclusion you hope to prove in the body (A). Enter the points you will cover (B).

Essay Outline Layout

II. The Body - Use the points as subheadings. (A, B, C, etc.) Under each point, list the

Title (Centered or left-aligned)

I. IntroductionA. Premise/ThesisB. Statement of points

II. BodyA. Point 1

1. Supporting Information2. Supporting Information

B. Point 2Supporting InformationSupporting Information

III. Conclusion/Summary A. Summary of supporting

informationB. Conclusion reached

(Restatement of premise)IV. Citations

information that supports or elaborates on each point (1, 2). This information will make up your essay body.

III. The Conclusion - The summary of your supporting information (A) should show how you reached your (B) conclusion.

IV. Citations - List your citations. (If you used outside sources of information)

In addition to helping you organize your thoughts, an essay outline also helps you plan the length of your paper. In fact, a good outline can make writing an essay as simple as filling in the blanks.

An essay outline can even help you determine the length of each paragraph. Especially in cases where you are limited to a number of pages or assigned a word count, you can use an essay outline to break the structure into percentages or words.

Writing an essay outline can be as easy as you want to make it. Using an essay outline helps you organize your thoughts from beginning to end and makes sure you don't leave any important parts out of the middle!

Essay Format

Frequently, the formatting of your essay may be nearly as important to a teacher as the content is. If your teacher or professor gives you specific formatting guidelines, you should follow them. However, if no guidelines are set, you have several different options for formatting your paper.

The Essay Title

Although the topic of your essay serves as the title, the title section of your essay contains several additional elements. You have two options for the title section:

1. Display the title at the top of the first page.2. Use a separate title page for the title section of your essay.

When you're not using a title page, generally your name, the course name, professor or teacher's name and the due date are placed at the upper left hand corner of the first page. Below that should be your title centered. Your essay begins after skipping one line below the title.

Example:John BrownEnglish Literature

Professor William LearDecember 5, 2005

When using a separate title page, the title is the first information on the page and horizontally centered at about the top third of the page. Other title elements (your name, the course name, teacher's name and the due date...) may be double or single-spaced and may be either centered or left aligned in the final third of your title page.

Title Page Layout

Advertising: What You Don’t RealizeBy John Brown

English LiteratureProfessor William Lear

December 5, 2005

Note: The essay title should be in the same font type and size as the rest of your essay and should not be bolded, italicized or underlined.

Tips for Formatting Essay Text

1. Use the standard margins of 1" on the top and bottom margins and 1.25" on the left and right margins.

2. Double spaced text is standard in essay writing and provides room for your editor or teacher to circle or underline errors or add arrows connecting their comments to your text.

3. Unless otherwise specified, essay text is left aligned. In cases where your essay is hand written instead of typed, it's "handy" to use a straight edge to keep vertical alignments at a 90-degree angle.

4. Use a standard font such as "Times New Roman" size 12.5. Print your essay on only one side of paper.6. Use standard white paper (8.5" X 11").

7. Paragraphs are identified by an indentation of five spaces (a tab), do not make extra spaces between paragraphs.

Page NumbersWhen used, a separate title page is not numbered. The first page of text is page 1 and may be numbered at the bottom center, in the upper right hand corner, or left unnumbered. Number subsequent pages in the upper right hand corner of each page.

Page numbers should be numbers only. Abbreviations like "p. 3" or indicators like "page 2 of 5" are usually inappropriate for essays.

In the MLA style, the page number is preceded by your last name spaces, i.e. Brown 1. Also in the MLA style all pages that contain the essay text are numbered in the upper right hand corner.

Works CitedIf you have used outside sources to gain information on your essay, you need to include a works cited page of the sources you used at the end of your paper. The appropriate method of listing your sources depends on the type of publications (e.g. book, article, web page, etc.) you used in researching your topic. The format of the works cited page also varies according to the style of citation used within your text.

Final Steps to Writing an Essay

Once you have finished writing the conclusion and listed your sources, you have completed the first draft of your essay. However, you haven't finished the essay until you have edited and proofread it. Keep the following points in mind as you begin to proofread your paper.

Make sure your sentences are necessary, clear, and concise.

Make sure paragraphs are positioned to work towards your conclusion.

Words aren't golden. If you used ten words to say it, but six will do, cut the other four. Alternatively, if an extra word or phrase helps to clarify a thought or idea, add it.

Once you are content with the structure of your essay, the next step is to ensure that the formatting, spelling, grammar, and punctuation are correct.

Be sure to check that you have put your pages in order.

Do use a spellchecker. However, don't rely on it to find every error. Many spellcheckers won't differentiate between homonyms such as their and there, misuse of words like using then instead of than, cant instead of can't, or transposed letters such as form instead of from.

Be sure proper nouns are capitalized, abbreviations are correct and end with periods in the proper places (e. g. U.S., MN, Inc.)

Check for punctuation mistakes such as an orphaned parenthesis, extra spaces between words, and inconsistencies in using commas.

Read through your essay again to be sure your thoughts are clearly stated. Try reading it aloud or let someone else read it to you.

Are citations clear and correct? Have your correctly listed all sources you used?

After you have proofread and made the necessary changes to your essay, leave it for at least one-half hour and then read it again. Errors you missed the first time through will frequently catch your attention! Another good final check is to print your essay as a draft. Draft outputs print with minimal formatting and make small errors much easier to spot.

Serif fonts (those with the little legs on the letters) make printed material much easier to read. If you typed your essay on a computer using a sans-serif font (one with no little legs on the letters), change it to a serif font before you print it. Print a copy of your essay and read it again, checking the size and readability of the text.

Once you're satisfied with your printed copy, you're finished! Good job! It's time to hand in your essay!

Essay Citations

In-Text CitationsUse in-text essay citations when you:

1. Add a direct quote to your essay.2. Paraphrase an idea from a source.3. Summarize information from a single source.

Several citation systems exist, but one of the most commonly used is the author-page system. The MLA (Modern Language Association) is the recognized standard for the author-page system of citation and is used widely in the humanities. MLA citations include the author's surname and page number in parenthesis. If you reference the author's name in the text of your essay, it's necessary to include only the page number.

EX: In picture books, such as coffee table photography books, the author usually pays for the photographs or permissions to use them. (Bykofsky and Sander, 141).

EX: According to Bykofsky and Sander, in books containing a majority of photos, like coffee table picture books, the author purchases the photos. (141).

Notice, that when there are two authors, both of their surnames are mentioned. When there are more than two authors, they are referenced as such: (Smith, Jones, et al, 179). Reference pages by number only. (i.e. p.179 is not be used)

The MLA system is an in-text method of citing sources and includes just enough information to help your reader find the information in the works cited page.

Although a quote from an expert can add impact to your essay, in most cases you should try to either paraphrase or summarize the information, using citation to reference your source. However, when you do use direct quotations, follow these rules:

1. Insert the quotation exactly as it was written, errors and all. Directly after a spelling error in a quote insert the word [sic]. EX: "Directly after a spelling errer [sic]... "

2. If you don't use the whole quotation, use an ellipses followed by trailing quotation marks (..." ) to signify that it isn't the whole quotation.

3. If you make a change in the quotation, such as an underline or bold text in part of the quotation, note it in parentheses after the quotation. EX: "Directly after a spelling error [sic] (my underline).

4. Use parenthesis ( ) for information that you add after a quote and square brackets [ ] for information you add within the quotation.

5. Cite your source. Usually, when you use a quotation, it's appropriate to cite the author's name within the text. In that case, you need only to reference the page number of the quotation.

Works CitedThe works cited section goes on a new page after the end of your essay. Put the text "Works Cited" at the top center of the page. Generally the woks cited should include the name of the author, the name of the article used (if applicable), the name of the publication, the city of publication, and the year of publication of all the references that you used to write your essay.

Hints

List your sources in alphabetical order based on the first word in each citation (ignore words such as "the" and "a").

Double space your works cited page. If the citation spans across multiple lines, indent all lines after the first line.

The following are formats of how to cite common sources (in MLA format).

BooksAuthor's Last Name, Author's First Name and Middle Name/Initial. Title of Book. Place of Publication: Publishing Company Name, Year of Publishing.

EncyclopediasAuthor's Last Name, Author's First Name and Middle Name/Initial. "Article Name." Title of Encyclopedia. Year of Edition or Edition Number ed.

MagazinesAuthor's Last Name, Author's First Name and Middle Name/Initial. "Article Name." Title of Magazine Day of Month (If applicable) Month Year: Page Number(s) of article.

WebsitesAuthor's Last Name, Author's First Name and Middle Name/Initial. "Title of Article/Document." Title of Site. Ed. Name of Editor (First Name Last Name). Date of publication or most recent update. Name of organization associated with site. Date of when you accessed the document. <http://www.websiteaddress.com> (If information is not available then leave that section out)

The Five-Paragraph Essay

The five-paragraph essay is used in all areas of academia and throughout the business world as well. In addition to improving your skills in written communication, the five-paragraph essay also helps to develop a system of organized thought. This system not only assists in scoring well on academic tests, but also is an asset throughout an individual's lifetime.

The five-paragraph essay is also called the "classic" essay and as such has a traditional structure. Although like other essays, the five-paragraph essay contains a title, introduction, body and conclusion, each paragraph also ends and/or begins with a transitionthat links one paragraph to the next.

Note About Transitions

A transition is a word, a phrase or a sentence that helps your reader understand your thought process and maintains your reader's interest from point to point in your essay.

Transitions create a bridge from one paragraph to the next. In addition, effective use of transitions adds continuity to your writing and cohesion to your essay as a whole.

The Introduction: The first paragraph introduces your thesis/topic to your readers and directs them to the points you'll develop in the body of your essay. Carefully craft your first sentence to capture your reader's attention. Introduce your thesis and, in sequence, list your three supporting points. Like all parts of a five-paragraph essay, the sequence of supporting points follows a particular format.

The Body: Each of the three paragraphs of the body of a five-paragraph essay is devoted to examining one of the three points that support your thesis. In addition, the paragraph that supports each of your points has a specific position within the body.

In writing the body, begin each paragraph with a restatement of the supporting point and follow it with your evidence. Make sure your evidence is detailed and specific to the point it supports. Although each supporting point needs at least three pieces of evidentiary information to support it, use as much evidence as is necessary to make your viewpoint clear to your reader.

The body of your five-paragraph essay is the "meat" of your essay. The first bite needs to be very tasty!

Body Paragraph #1: Begin your first paragraph with a "reverse hook", a transition that alludes to your thesis as a whole. As in paragraph numbers two and three of the body, be sure to restate your point in the first or second sentence. Follow the restatement of your supporting point with your best evidence, your strongest point and/or most interesting example. End the first paragraph with a transitional word, phrase, or statement that progresses to your second paragraph.

Body Paragraph #2: Connect your bridge at both ends. Begin the second paragraph with a transition that alludes to the information in the body paragraph #1. State your second point in the first or second sentence of this paragraph. The supporting point and evidence presented in the second paragraph is the second most important evidence that supports your overall thesis. Conclude the second paragraph with a transition to the third.

Body Paragraph #3: The final paragraph of your essay body contains your weakest argument and evidence. Strengthen this paragraph by again beginning it with a transition that connects it to body paragraph #2 and your thesis as a whole. Use a transition at the end of this paragraph to connect the three points of the body in leading to the conclusion of your essay.

The Conclusion: Your essay conclusion is the fifth and final paragraph of your essay. Use it to strongly restate your thesis, now backing it up with your three supporting points (again in sequence) and important evidence your essay brought to light. In writing your conclusion, try to grasp the feelings you have evoked in your reader and end your essay by using those feelings to add the final "sway" to your argument.

In retrospect, this final part of your essay should restate both your thesis and the points that support it in a way that unmistakably shows the reader how your reached the conclusions you've drawn.

Essay Writing Tips

1. Get started early, you don't want to wait to the last minute and have to rush through your essay.

2. Whatever your essay says, how it looks creates your reader's first impression. Format your essay for easy reading, paying strict attention to unity in tab spaces, indents, and proper margins.

3. Knowing the different types of essays helps not only in the essay writing process, but can also help you choose a topic.

4. Keep a dictionary handy or put an online dictionary in your Internet Favorites. Your spell checker won't know the difference between words like complement (number) and compliment (praise). If you aren't sure of the spelling of a word and don't have access to a dictionary (for instance while taking a college boards test), replace it with a different word.

5. Use an outline whenever possible.6. Create your works cited page as you write/research your essay. In addition to

reminding you where to find relevant information, adding citations as you use them prevents forgetting one in your list.

7. Don't over-quote. Consider paraphrasing before using direct quotations. Yet, remember to cite your source even when paraphrasing another person's thought.

8. Transitions create a bridge from one paragraph to the next. In addition, effective use of transitions adds continuity to your writing and cohesion to your essay as a whole.

9. Always type your essay on a computer (unless otherwise instructed) and make backup copies of your essay, just in case.

10.Thesis statements benefit your readers by creating a roadmap that guides them through your essay. Creating a strong thesis statement and identifying supporting points helps you stay on topic as you write.

11.Know your subject. Collect two to three times more information than you intend to use. Researching a variety of sources also helps ensure that facts are accurately represented.

12.Don't' overlook primary resources. If you're writing about Hamlet, read the play and form your own opinions. If you're writing about Mel Gibson's Hamlet, read the play, watch the movie and form your own opinions.

13.Be assertive in your essay, avoid using lines such as, "I think..." or "In my opinion...".

14.Print a copy of your essay and read it aloud to find hidden errors and weak areas that need editing. As you read, ask yourself what opinions your reader might form as they read. Better yet, have a friend read your printed essay back to you.

15.Proofread, revise and edit your essay before you submit your final copy.

Essay Test Taking Strategies

Essay tests are one of the most dreaded types of tests, but if you combine some general test taking strategies with specific essay test taking strategies, the essay test may prove to be one of the most interesting types of exams you take!

General Test Taking StrategiesBefore the test - The most important test taking strategy is to know your subject.

1. Stay up to date on your assignments.2. Take notes and spend some time each day reviewing. Review all related notes

upon completion of each chapter or unit, making sure you understand the material.

3. Use memory tricks, (like rhymes, anagrams, alphabetizing) for lists, definitions, and other hard to remember kinds of information.

4. Don't be afraid to ask your instructor about material that will be emphasized on the test.

5. Get a good night's sleep before tests.

Be early to class on the day of the test. Use the extra time to get organized and relaxed. Make sure you have the supplies you need like pencils, scratch paper, and any permitted reference materials.

During the test -

Stay relaxed. If you feel your stomach knotting up, take a couple of deep breaths, clear your thoughts and begin again.

Read the directions carefully. Pay attention to last minute verbal instructions, listening especially for changes to written directions. Ask questions if you need to clarify directions. Example: A key instruction might be that you only have to answer three out of five essay questions. Find out if answering the final two is worth extra credit or no credit.

Essay Test Taking StrategiesReview the whole test before you begin writing.

You may find partial answers to some questions hidden in others. Find which questions will be easy and which will be more difficult. Some questions may be worth more points than others may.

As you review the test, jot down any ideas that come to mind.

Budget your time equally for each question. Include time to review and finish difficult questions, make corrections or changes, and time to proofread your essay(s),

Try to write as neatly as possible.

Each question will have a central idea. Try to answer the questions from the instructor's point of view, remembering what was most emphasized during class.

Look for directional terms found in keywords such as:

Analyze: Examine and clarify an idea. Compare: Identify similarities and differences, pros and cons. Evaluate: Come to a conclusion based on facts. Outline: Describe the main points of a topic. If you're unsure, ask if this

keyword means to use an outline format (i.e. I, II, III,) or an essay format (descriptions in the body paragraphs).

Define: Explain the exact meaning and support your definition with facts. Describe: Go into detail. Use examples, verbal illustrations, and lists to connect

ideas. Summarize: Give a short account of the topic, still using the essay format but

sticking to facts and excluding unnecessary details. Circle any directional terms you find in each question to be sure your essay stays on course.

Begin with the easiest question and move on to the more difficult ones.

Make a simple outline of ideas for each essay question.

Remember the essay format is with the three "tells":

Tell them what you're going to tell them (introduction): Use the introduction to repeat the question in your own words to let your teacher see both your understanding of the question and a short description of your answer.

Tell them (body):

o Answer the question in detail, using your outline for your main points and adding the details to each point.

o Numbers or bullets make for easier reading and let your teacher easily find each point.

o If you aren't sure about an exact date or number, use approximations that you are sure of such as "the early 21srt century" or "over a dozen".

Tell them what you told them (conclusion): Don't overlook the conclusion to your essay. A strong conclusion can provide extra clarity to your essay by restating your point of view and defining how you reached it by summarizing your major points.

Proofread your essay. Even if they don't add points, correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation makes reading easier and keeps your teacher focused on your essay instead of mechanical mistakes.

After Test StrategiesEvery test is good practice for the next test! Analyze your test, paying equal attention to your strong points and weak points. Build on your strengths and work to make weak areas stronger.

If your score was low, ask your teacher what you could have done to improve it.

Although essay test taking strategies are important, learning some general test taking strategies for before, during, and after essay test taking is also valuable to getting good essay test grades.

How to Write a Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay (also known as the argument essay) has one of two objectives:

1. To convince your reader to adopt your point of view2. To convince your reader to take a specific course of action

A good persuasive essay argues one side of a very narrow topic. Although the persuasive essay only addresses one side of the issue, the topic must be debatable. Simply put, the persuasive essay recognizes that there are two sides to every question, but only presents one side to the reader. Still, it's important for you to understand both sides of the debate in order to promote your viewpoint effectively.

Choosing the Topic for a Persuasive EssayThe persuasive essay is an objective composition. In choosing your topic for a persuasive essay, although you should select one about which you feel strongly, be sure that you can find solid evidence that supports your position.

Refrain from choosing a topic where arguments are based on opinion or belief. Don't confuse facts with truths. A "truth" is a majority-held belief or opinion that is unproven and unsubstantiated by fact. Develop your argument using facts, logical reasoning, relevant examples, quotations from recognized experts, and/or statistics.

Avoid arguing indisputable facts. Start your essay draft by proving your thesis. Write the question, your position, and then write a thesis statement that directly opposes your viewpoint. This ensures that you have chosen a debatable question. Examine the other side of the argument and determine whether your evidence is strong enough to disprove the opposing viewpoint. Look for contrasting evidence, mistakes, and inconsistencies in logic.

Define Your TopicIn addition to a statement of the question, your persuasive essay title is also a statement of your position on the question. However, since your essay is objective, your title should be, too. For instance:

Cable Internet vs. Fios Internet - This is unacceptable since it doesn't state your position.

Why I Chose Cable Internet Over Fios Internet - This is also unacceptable since use of first person makes it subjective rather than objective and suggests personal choice rather than factual evidence.

Reasons Why Cable Internet Rules Over Fios Internet - This is acceptable. It defines the topic, objectively states your position, and relates that your argument is based on evidence (reasons).

Introducing the Persuasive EssayUse your thesis in your persuasive essay introduction. In addition to putting your topic and position into a sentence, the introduction to your persuasive essay should be a clear definition of the points that support your thesis. Present them in the same order that you'll use in the body of your essay to help the reader see that your position is supported in a way that comes to a logical conclusion.

Organizing the Persuasive Essay BodyThe easiest way to organize the body of a persuasive essay is to think of your points as pointing towards your conclusion. Each sentence in the body should be closely related to your topic and to the sentence that precedes it.

Begin each paragraph with a point from your introduction, following the same sequence you presented in the introduction. Support it with your evidence. As you finish each paragraph, examine it as you did the opposing point of view. Look for mistakes, inconsistencies in logic, and truths masquerading as facts.

Be sure your evidence is specific. Stay away from using broad generalizations and personal opinions. Especially refrain from using words like all (as in all people), always, every, and never.

Check to see that you have accurately cited any sources you used in examples and quotations.

Help your reader see the logical progression of your argument by concluding each paragraph with a transitional sentence that leads to your next point.

Before you begin writing your conclusion, check all paragraphs of your essay body to ensure that

1. Your evidence is strong and relevant to the point you addressed in the paragraph

2. The essay progresses logically to your conclusion3. Both your points and supporting evidence are on topic and foused towards the

conclusion

In ConclusionRedefine your topic and summarize your essay by restating your most powerful

evidence, again preserving the sequence of your presentation. The conclusion of your persuasive essay is your last chance to remind your readers of your position and persuade them to accept your point of view.

How to Write a Critical Essay

What is a Critical Essay?A critical essay is a critique or review of another work, usually one which is arts related (i.e. book, play, movie, painting). However, the critical essay is more than just a summary of the contents of the other work or your opinion of its value. The critical essay is an objective analysis of the work, examining both its positive and negative aspects.

The critical essay is informative and stresses the work rather than your opinion. You need to support any observations or claims you make with evidence. For this reason, in writing a critical essay, you don't use the first person.

Following the general essay format of title, introduction, body, and conclusion is helpful in writing the critical essay.

Formatting Your Critical EssayTitle: An essay is an examination of a single topic. Because critical essays must back each point with solid evidence, it's much easier to focus on a single aspect of a work rather than an entire work. Remember this when choosing your essay title.

For instance, rather than trying to examine the movie "Star Wars", examine "The Use of Dialogue in Star Wars". In a critical essay, even this topic may be too broad. Narrow it further to a topic like how Yoda's odd dialogue contributes to the movie or how the voice of James Earl Jones adds to the character of Darth Vader.

Introduction: The introduction of a critical essay introduces the topic, including the name of the work that you're analyzing and the author or artist of the work. It also states your position on the work and briefly outlines the questions that led you to develop the arguments you'll detail in the body of your essay.

Tip: Use relevant background or historical information to show the importance of the work and the reason for your evaluation.

Body: The body of a critical essay contains information that supports your position on the topic.

Develop your arguments through using facts that explain your position, compare it to the opinions of experts, and evaluate the work. Directly follow each statement of opinion with supporting evidence.

1. The critical essay should briefly examine other opinions of the work, using them to strengthen your position. Use both the views of experts that are contrary to your viewpoint as well as those in agreement with your position.

2. Use your evidence to show why your conclusion is stronger than opposing views, examining the strength of others' reasoning and the quality of their conclusions in contrast to yours.

3. As well as comparisons, include examples, statistics, and anecdotes.4. Find supporting evidence within the work itself, in other critical discussions of

the work, and through external sources such as a biography of the author or artist.

Tips:

Using paragraphs for each point you analyze and including transitions from point to point improves the flow of your essay.

As well as from paragraph to paragraph, check to see that the entire essay is well organized and that the information within each paragraph is well ordered.

Conclusion: The conclusion of your critical essay restates your position and summarizes how your evidence supports your point of view. Remember to restate the title and author of the work in the conclusion.

Final Touches for the Critical EssayThe critical essay is an informative review based on authoritative and expert evidence. Completing the essay with the appropriate final touches adds an authoritative look to your composition.

1. Since much of the information in a critical essay is based on the opinions and viewpoints of others, it is crucial to properly cite your sources within the body of the essay and include a list of sources at the end of the paper. The critical essay normally uses the MLA format of citation.

2. Remember to proofread your essay. Mechanical errors (spelling, grammar, punctuation) erase your credibility as an expert on your topic.

Although finding the supporting evidence for a critical essay takes some effort, because you support your position with facts the critical essay results in making you look like an expert on your topic. Overall, it may be easier to write than a first-person essay!

How to Write a Narrative Essay

AboutThe narrative essay offers the writer to do what many of us like to do best – talk about him or her self! Each of us has experiences that we enjoy sharing with others and the narrative gives us the tools to communicate our story in a way that is easily understood by others. The narrative essay is usually a story about your own life. You may tell about a memorable person or event from the past or the present. Some narrative essays also tell a family “tale” about a parent, grandparent, other relative or close friend.

WritingAlthough usually you want to refrain from beginning a composition with “I”, in writing the first draft of your narrative essay, it may be the easiest way to start your creativity flowing. Another “rule” in writing the narrative essay is to put events in chronological order. However, rules were made to be broken, and sometimes a tale isn’t best told moment by moment. Get the story on paper. Afterwards, you’ll go back and put it into essay form.

As you write, remember that using descriptive language is an excellent tool to draw the reader into your experience. Use vivid verbs and colorful adjectives and adverbs that involve all five of the senses. Make your reader see, hear, feel, taste, and touch your point of view.

Keep your writing conversational as if you were telling your tale instead of writing it. Use anecdotes, metaphors, and tales within tales. In fact, write your story in the way you would be most comfortable telling it. Once you have finished your first draft, you can begin forming it into an essay.

Like most narrative tales, the narrative essay is usually told in the first person. Yet, if your story is about what happened to a friend, a relative, or a pet, use he or she. However, be consistent in your point of view. If you begin in the first person, stick to it. If you begin in the third person, stick to that.

Most important about the narrative essay is that it is based on a real story. Second in importance is that the narrative essay takes the shape of an essay and not just a story.

Introduce your narrative essay by introducing the topic and your characters. Also, include your essay’s basic premise in your introduction. This doesn’t have to be earth

shattering, but it should indicate that you learned something from the experience or at least why your story is important to you.

Look at your draft and choose the points that not only best describe and enhance your story but also are most related to your premise. As you develop your narrative essay, use descriptive test that creates a dominant impression in support of each point and your premise.

Like any essay, the final paragraph of your narrative essay is your conclusion. Repeat your premise and summarize how the story led you to your conclusion. The descriptive language and premise of a narrative essay makes your experience interesting to your reader. Putting a story into a narrative essay form helps you relate an important event in your life in a way that is easily understood by any reader.

How to Write a Descriptive Essay

The next time you get a chance, pick up an apple. Feel the weight of it in your hand. Examine it for blemishes. What caused that little black spot? Did the apple tenaciously hang onto the wind-whipped tree branch as a storm dashed it into a neighboring twig? Did a peckish bird sample the apple for ripeness? Look at the apple again and feel it as it warms in your hand. Anticipate the burst of flavor as your teeth crunch through the rich redness of its thin skin.The above is a sample of descriptive writing and a hint of some of the ways you can take an ordinary object and change it into the extraordinary using words. Writing a descriptive essay is a chance to explore your own creativity as you use the senses to draw a picture in words.

1. Could you feel the weight and temperature of the apple?2. Did you see the blemish and visualize the windstorm or the bird?3. Could you hear the crunch as you bit through the skin?4. Could you taste the explosion of flavor?

Actually, there is more than one way to write a descriptive essay. Some descriptive essays are written objectively, using only the facts:

Ex: The apple was fully ripe, a fact supported by its deep red color and the ease with which its dry brown stem separated from the tree.

Tip: Keep your essay on topic by applying descriptive text to your subject only. Notice above that no description is applied to the tree.

Other descriptive writing, like the first example, is subjective in that it intends to paint a vivid picture that elicits sensations or arouses emotion in the reader. However, in

either form, descriptive writing adds strength to your essay by adding interesting and specific details to your composition.

Although the first example is a descriptive paragraph, be sure to follow the standard essay writing format of introduction, body, and conclusion when writing your descriptive essay. Use your introduction to both present your subject and to tell your reader why you found it interesting.

Choose your details carefully. In writing a descriptive essay, your objective is to leave your reader with just one impression.

For instance, if the apple was grass green instead of rosy red, you might take some “poetic license” and leave that fact out, selecting only the details that support your description and convey the impression or a ripe and juicy apple.

When writing a descriptive essay, start building your description by brainstorming the facts

Red Apple Brown Stem Small black blemish near the top Thin skin Juicy Crunchy Round Heavy and solid

By the time you finish this process, you’ll probably have written an objective description and only need to put it into sentences and insert them into appropriate paragraphs of your descriptive essay. In writing a subjective description, you’ll want to build on the facts by adding adjectives to some of them and using synonyms that are more descriptive for others. (e.g. rosy red as opposed to red or weighty as opposed to heavy).

Choose two or three of the descriptions you’ve built and use them as the focal points of your descriptive essay body, with supporting information that describes why they are important to your overall view. (In this example, the ripeness of the apple.)

Conclude your descriptive essay with a summary of your points and restate the impression you meant to create.

How to Write a Reflective Essay

Look into a mirror. The first thing you probably see is yourself looking back at you. Keep looking though and you’ll also see what’s behind you. Writing a reflective essay is similar to looking into a mirror except that instead of seeing objects reflected in the room behind you, you “see” reflections of a past experience. Reflective essays are usually written at the completion of a milestone. For instance, a scientist may write a reflective essay at the completion of an experiment or a student may be asked to write a reflective essay at the end of a course of study or the completion of an individual or class project.

An essay on “My Summer Vacation” could be a reflective essay. However, a reflective essay is not to be confused with an informative essay. While an informative essay relates facts like where you went, what you did, and how much things cost, a reflective essay is an evaluation. It’s a record of your feelings and findings from the beginning of your experience until the end. In addition to concluding with a summary of your subject, the conclusion to a reflective essay usually also includes what you learned from the experience.

The essay format of introduction, body, and conclusion is at its strongest when used to write a reflective essay. Begin writing your essay by describing your subject, your feelings and/or expectations at the beginning of the project and by partly disclosing or hinting at your conclusion.

Ex: “I didn’t want to go to South Dakota last summer, but by the end of our summer vacation I learned that the Black Hills are really more green than black and the Badlands really aren’t so bad at all.”

Your essay body would go on to describe your Black Hills vacation, examining not just the points of interest but also why you found them interesting. This particular essay might conclude with the trip's highlights and the reasons you came away feeling that, “the Badlands really aren’t so bad at all.”

In most reflective essays, as well as describing what went right, you’ll also want to describe what went wrong or what could be improved and how. For instance, in the example you might describe attractions you didn’t visit that you would like to see and/or side trips that disappointed you and why. Alternatively, you might describe things you packed that you didn’t need and things you didn’t pack that you wished you had brought with you.

The most important factor to remember in writing a reflective essay is that your opinions and conclusions should directly relate to the experiences you examine in the essay body.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay

The argumentative essay, although bearing many similarities to the persuasive (argument) essay, has several very distinct differences.

Basic Essay Format

I. Introduction

II. BodyA. First point and supporting infoB. Second point and supporting infoC. Third point and supporting info

III. Conclusion

The objective of a persuasive essay is to “win” the reader over to your side of an argument, while the primary objective of an argumentative essay is just to show that you have a valid argument, allowing the reader either to adopt your position or to “agree to disagree”.

Another difference between the two types of essay is that in the persuasive essay, although you acknowledge the opposing view, only one side of the issue is debated. An important part of the argumentative essay is to use evidence both to substantiate one’s own position and to refute the opposing argument.

The final difference between the argumentative essay and the argument (persuasive) essay is the organization of the composition. The persuasive essay follows the basic essay format as displayed in the example.

The argumentative essay may be formatted in several ways:

Example 1: Claim/Counter Claim

Introduce the topic and state or explain the question. State both the claim (your position) and the counter claim (the opposing position).

Start building a strong case by refuting or disproving the opposing position.

I. Introduction (Claim and counter claim statement)

II. Body Part IA. First counter point and refuting

information

Use one paragraph to state each counter point, following your statement with related evidence that refutes the point.

Present your case in the second section of the body.

Use one paragraph to state each of your points, following your statement with the evidence that proves or supports your point.

The conclusion of this format is a restatement of your claim and a summary of the information that supports it.

B. Second counter point and refuting information

C. Third counter point and refuting information

III Body Part IIA. First point and supporting informationB. Second point and supporting

informationC. Third point and supporting information

IV Conclusion – Restatement of claim and summary of the main ideas

Example 2: The Cluster Format

Introduce the topic and state or explain the question.

Start the first section of the body with your statement of claim or position.

In this format, you begin by stating and supporting your points. Use one paragraph to state each of your points, following your statement with the evidence that proves or supports your point.

Follow each point with an opposing view related to that point and evidence that supports the objection. Use one paragraph for each counter point and its evidence.

After you have finished presenting all points, counter points and evidence, start the second section of the body with your rebuttals to each of the counter points.

Back your rebuttals with evidence and logic that shows why the objections are invalid. If the opposing view is valid, acknowledge it as so but use your evidence to show that it’s somehow unattractive and that your position is the more

I. Introduction (Claim and counter claim statement)

II. Body Part I – Presenting the CaseA. Statement of the claimB. First point and supporting informationC. First point opposition and refuting

evidenceD. Second point and supporting

informationE. Second point opposition and refuting

evidenceF. Third point and supporting informationG. Third point opposition and refuting

evidence

III. Body Part II– Author’s rebuttalA. First point rebuttalB. Second point rebuttalC. Third point rebuttal

IV Conclusion

desirable of the two.

Use one paragraph to rebut each counter claim.

The conclusion of this format is a restatement of your claim, a summary of supporting information and an assessment of rebuttals.

Example 3: The Alternating Format

Introduce the topic and state or explain the question.

Start the body with your statement of claim or position.

In this format, you begin by stating and supporting your points. Use one paragraph to state each of your points, following your statement with the evidence that proves or supports your point.

Follow each point with an opposing view related to that point and evidence that supports the objection. Use one paragraph for each counter point and its evidence.

Follow each objection with your rebuttal. Use one paragraph to rebut each counter claim.

The conclusion of this format is a restatement of your claim, a summary of supporting information and an assessment of rebuttals.

I. Introduction (Claim and counter claim statement)

II. BodyA. Statement of the claimB. First point and supporting informationC. First point opposition and refuting

evidenceD. First rebuttal and supporting

informationE. Second point and supporting

informationF. Second point opposition and refuting

evidenceG. Second rebuttal and supporting

information

III Conclusion

Writing the Argumentative EssayNow that you know how to format an argumentative essay, it’s time to begin writing.

Again, as in the persuasive essay, state your thesis objectively. Don’t use first person. Instead of saying, “I don’t think global warming is worth worrying about”, you might say, “A two degree rise in temperature over the last hundred years makes global warming a trivial problem.”

Now that you have ‘put the gloves on” be prepared to back up your thesis with facts. Use statistics, expert quotations, and other evidence in support of your thesis and in rebuttal of counter claims. In addition, all counter claims should be backed with solid evidence as well.

As you research your material, anticipate objections and be prepared to make concessions. This will help you to research and write your thesis as if you were debating a real person instead of a piece of paper!

Perhaps the biggest mistake people make in writing an argumentative essay is to substitute their opinions for facts. Remember that each claim you make must be supported by solid evidence if your argument is to hold up to counter claims and objections.

Although in an argumentative essay you don’t have to win the reader over to your side, your objective at the least should be to persuade them to “agree to disagree” with your position and accept it as another point of view that merits further thought and discussion.

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

Apples and oranges. All you need do in writing a compare and contrast essay is take two subjects and show their similarities and their differences. When writing a compare and contrast essay, the basic essay form of title, introduction, three paragraph body, and conclusion makes it one of the easiest essays to write.

Before you begin writing, brainstorm to find similarities and differences between your subjects.

Subject Similarities Differences

Apples & Oranges

Both are tree fruits, grown commercially in large orchards

Oranges tropical, apples temperate

Apple juice and orange juice Apple juice has no pulp. Orange juice has pulp.

Sauce Pulp and peeling from oranges is used in sauce. Applesauce contains only the pulp of the pared apple.

Use your essay introduction to introduce both subjects and present the points you intend to make.

Ex: However, although apples and oranges are both fruits, they are each ripe with differences, some of which are shown in the way they are grown and processed.

Format the body of your compare and contrast essay in one of several ways:

1. You can compare and contrast different elements of each subject in each paragraph of your essay body. This is also called “point by point” comparison and contrast.

Example 1:

1. (Compare) Apples and oranges are both tree fruits often grown commercially in large orchards. (Contrast) However, apples grow in every climate and oranges need tropical temperatures to produce fruit.

2. (compare) Although both fruits can be juiced, (contrast) apples are pressed and only the juice is bottled while both pulp and juice is squeezed from oranges.

3. (Compare) Again, while fruit sauce is made from both apples and oranges, usually applesauce comes from the pared and pureed apple (contrast) while orange sauce may contain both the rind and the pulp of the orange.

2. You can use one paragraph to discuss one subject, the second paragraph to discuss the other and the final paragraph of the body to compare and contrast the two subjects.

Example 2:

1. Apples are a tree fruit that is often grown commercially in large orchards. As well as eaten from the tree, apples are also both pressed into apple juice or pureed and processed into applesauce.

2. Oranges are also a tree fruit, often grown commercially in large orchards. Like apples, they can be eaten from the tree, squeezed into juices or processed into orange sauce.

3. (Compare and contrast points discussed in paragraphs one and two.) One big difference between apples and oranges is the way they are processed. Notice that while apples are pressed for juice, orange juice is squeezed from the orange. Another difference is that while apple juice contains only the liquid pressed from the apple, orange juice may also contain the pulp from the orange. Although applesauce contains the pureed pulp of the pared apple, orange sauce may contain bits of orange rind as well as the pulp of the fruit.

3. You can also limit your essay to discuss only one similarity and one difference between the two subjects.

4. You can structure you essay to compare only similarities or to contrast only differences between your two subjects.

Note: To avoid confusing your reader, it’s best to follow the same order of representation in each paragraph. For instance, in example one notice that the order is subject one (apples,) comparison, and then contrast and followed by subject two (oranges,) comparison, and then contrast.

You may want to try a couple of different formats for your topic in order to choose which best suits your subject. In addition, using appropriate transitions between paragraphs is very important in writing the compare and contrast essay. Transitions help your essay flow smoothly from point to point yet keep your essay on topic.

Cue WordsAnother technique in writing the compare and contrast essay is to use cue words that links one paragraph to the next.cue words. Cue words are clues to whether you are comparing your subjects or contrasting them and make it easier for your reader to understand your points.

Cue Words

Similarities Is similar to Both Also Too As well Like

Differences On the other hand However But Although Unlike While

Like in any essay, finish your essay by summarizing the points you made in the body.Ex: Although each is a commercially grown tree fruit, growing temperatures and differences in processing apples and oranges clearly makes a distinction between the two fruits.

Appropriate use of transitions and cue words help make your essay conclusion easy to summarize. Writing a contrast and compare and essay is as easy as comparing apples and oranges!

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

Defining Cause and EffectThe easiest way to define cause and effect is “one thing leads to another”. The one thing is the cause that leads to (or results in) “another”, the effect.

Although you can focus on one cause and effect, frequently you’ll find that a single cause generates many effects or that one effect is the result of multiple unrelated causes.

Example: Smoking can cause heart disease, lung cancer, and emphysema or heart disease may be caused by smoking, obesity, and genetics. In addition, smoking can be a contributing factor in an individual with all three diseases or an individual with heart disease may smoke, be obese, and have a family history of heart disease.

In addition, often an effect is brought about by a chain reaction of causes.Example: Smoking can cause emphysema, which causes a person to slow down, which leads to weight gain, resulting in heart disease.

As you can see, defining some causes and effects gives you a number of possible essay topics. Remembering that an essay is a discussion of a single topic, choose either a cause or effect as your topic and examine the subject “topic” to “primary point” or “topic” to “multiple points”.

1. The Effect of Cigarettes on Your Heart (one cause to one effect)2. Three Deadly Effects of Smoking (three effects to a cause)3. Three Major Causes of Heart Disease (three causes to one effect)

When you intend to discuss multiple effects or causes, brainstorm to identify them. Ask questions about each cause or effect you identify.

“Why did this happen?” “What happened before or after this?” “What were the results of this?”

Keep asking questions until you are satisfied that you have identified all the causes or effects that are related to your topic. After you have a list, check causes and effects to be sure that your relationships are logical and valid.

Develop Your Cause and Effect EssayThe thesis should clearly state the focus of your cause and effect essay. Alert your reader to the focus of your cause and effect essay by using the words cause and/or effect in your essay thesis. Along with the thesis, your essay introduction should also state the major points your essay will discuss.

The purpose of the cause and effect essay may be either to analyze or inform. Generally, the cause and effect essay is organized either chronologically or in order of importance. Keep causes and effects clearly defined by using keywords for causes such as because of, due to, since, and leads to. For effects use words like consequently, as a result of, thus, resulting in, and, therefore.

Support each point with evidence that clearly shows its relation to your topic. In cases where your facts don’t clearly support your argument, qualify your statements with phrases like, “the evidence suggests”, “it seems likely,” or “the apparent cause” and words like “possibly,” “probably”,“perhaps”, and “maybe”.

How to Write a Research Essay

The research essay is also called the research paper and the term paper. Along with being one of the most frequently assigned compositions, it is also one that strikes terror in the hearts of many students. However, once you know how to research and organize a research essay, it can be one of the most satisfying papers to write.A major part of writing the research essay is compiling and organizing the information you need to write the paper. The best way to begin researching is to “start fresh”. Whether the topic is assigned or one of your own choice, clear your mind of all opinions and ideas on the topic until you have reviewed expert information on the topic. Then decide if your paper will be expository or argumentative in nature.

Like all essays, the research essay has three main parts: It begins with the introduction followed by the body and, of course, concludes with the conclusion. Yet, the body of the research essay usually has several distinct sections that are unique in either type or placement when compared to other types of essays.

Parts of the research essay include:The Introduction: Like every essay, the introduction to a research essay introduces the topic. It may also include your statement of interest in the topic. How you introduce the topic is a matter of your personal choice. Some examples are:

Start with an anecdote about the topic Talk about the work of an expert that led you to become interested in the topic Disclose an unanswered question that led you to choose the topic. The question

may also be the basis for your essay thesis.

The Thesis: While your thesis should appear as early as you can fit it into your research essay, it may be placed either in the introduction or in the first paragraph of the body, depending on the subject and depth of the information your essay explores. The thesis should be clear and concise. A rule of thumb says that if your thesis

extends beyond a single sentence, you may need to redefine your argument. As usual, the supporting points of your thesis directly follow it.

Argument and Documentation: The “meat of your research essay”, the argument and documentation section presents your case. How you develop your points depends on whether your essay format is expository or argumentative.

The Historiography: The historiography is an overview of other works written on the same topic, those that share your point of view as well those opposing your argument. Although often addressed only in footnotes or endnotes, you may place the historiography within the body if it is important to the development of your essay. For instance, you might use the historiography to acknowledge a contradicting position and explain why it’s invalid or to introduce an expert source that agrees with your viewpoint.

Discussion of Sources: Different from the usual list of cited sources, the research essay takes time to discuss sources of information. The discussion of sources takes into account the biases and weaknesses of your sources as well as their strengths and the value they add to your argument. Furthermore, in a discussion of sources you may also include sources that you didn’t use and the reasons why you omitted them from your paper.

Although the discussion of sources also is most often found in footnotes, its placement depends upon its importance to your topic and to the development of your article.

Conclusion: Again, the conclusion of a research essay differs from the standard essay format. Although you’ll redefine your thesis and summarize the supporting points, you may choose to add some pertinent information. For instance, the conclusion of a research essay is the only place in your paper where it’s appropriate to express your personal opinion. Furthermore, you might add information that connects your topic to a contemporary issue such as how it brought about some significant change. You may also provide avenues for further research.

How to Write an Expository Essay

What is an Expository Essay?While expository is just a synonym for information, strict guidelines of the expository essay ensure that the information it contains is clear and concise. An easy way to get off on the right foot in writing an expository essay is to remember that the root of expository is expose. The writer’s job is to totally expose the topic in a way that makes the information unmistakably clear to his/her audience.

However, the expository essay is a totally objective composition. Differing from many other types of essay, the writer’s job is to explain and inform without offering an opinion or developing an argument. To that end, the expository essay is an impartial analysis of facts and evidence. Further evidence of its impartiality is that the expository essay is always written in the third person.

Know Your Audience

More so than in any other type of essay, when composing an expository essay it’s important to write to your audience. Judge how much background information you’ll need by asking yourself if your readers are familiar with your topic. It’s as important not to "overstate the case” as it is to provide all the relevant information on your topic. In other words, although you want to fully inform your audience, you don’t want to patronize your readers by filling your essay with general information.

The goal of an expository essay is provide the reader with a full understanding of a complex process or situation.

The Expository Essay FormatThe expository essay follows the standard essay format of Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. Although it is distinctly different from other types of essay, it may use the techniques of compare and contrast, cause and effect, divide and categorize, use examples, statistics and or definitions in order to meet its goal.

The expository essay introduction is a statement of the essay’s thesis and the sub-topics that will be developed within the essay body. The expository essay is generally a short composition that attempts to completely cover a narrow topic. To achieve this objective, the essay thesis needs to be well defined and narrow.

Each paragraph of the body of the expository essay must have a dominant point that directly relates to the essay thesis. All supporting sentences within each body paragraph must have a direct and factual relationship to the dominant point.

Appropriate use of transitions is also crucial to a good expository essay. Transitions confirm the organization and the logic of your composition as they allow the reader to move smoothly from point to point of your essay.

Keep sentence structures simple and clear in anticipation of potential misunderstandings. Stay away from slang and colloquialisms. Be sure to use technical terms in context and accurately. Explain acronyms and those terms that may be unfamiliar to your reader.

Conclude your expository essay by restating your thesis and summarizing the points that lead to your conclusion.

Concluding the Expository EssayAfter you’ve finished your first draft, along with checking for mechanical errors, check your essay to see if you have explained your topic thoroughly. Be sure that your thesis relates to every paragraph and that supporting sentences directly relate to your dominant points.

Reorganize your essay as needed to keep your logic clear and you information in an appropriate sequence. The real conclusion of your expository essay is when your composition is a well-ordered, easy-to-understand analysis of your topic.

How to Write a College Admissions Essay

The college admissions essay is a personal statement that puts your essay writing skills to the test. In writing a college admissions essay you’ll combine narrative, persuasive, cause and effect, descriptive, and reflective essay forms into one cohesive self-portrait.

Although a large part of your essay will be autobiographical, the college admissions essay must do more than look at your past. The college admissions board wants to see that you have a well formed vision of where you are now and what you hope to accomplish in the future both during and beyond college.

Your First College Examination - YourselfBefore you begin writing a college admissions essay, consider who will read it. College admissions boards read hundreds of essays each year, many that are almost carbon copies of the next. Your essay will need to stand out from the crowd and impress the admissions board with the unique individual that is you.

The most frequent criticism of college admissions essays is that the writer isn’t specific in answering the individual questions asked, especially in tailoring his/her response to the school. You can find answers to the most frequently asked questions by answering a few questions about yourself.

What is the most impressive characteristic of your personality? What is the most distinctive element of your life story? What about your life most influenced your choices and the goals you have set

for your future. What influenced you to choose your field of interest? Why are you well suited

to the course of study you have chosen?

What are your real goals for the future? What milestones have you passed and what milestones must you pass in order to achieve your goals?

Have you left anything out that might be relevant to your personal statement? Keep thinking of questions to answer that relate to your course of study, your goals, and the school(s) to which you are applying.

As you answer your questions, don’t write descriptive paragraphs. Just write down the information. Your answers are evidence that you’ll use in your responses to specific questions.

Your College Admissions Essay TopicLike any essay, the introduction of your college admissions essay should introduce your topic and the main points that support your topic. Don’t make the mistake of thinking your topic is either an overview or a long-winded dissertation on your life.

The college admissions board wants to see what events in your life led you to an interest in your course of study and what makes you believe that attending their school will best help you achieve your goals. The first paragraph should be the framework and set the scene for your entire college admissions essay.

Use each paragraph of the body to elaborate on a single point with statements that both support the point and relate to the essay topic.

Example: What is the most impressive characteristic of your personality?

Wrong answer: My sense of humor is my most impressive characteristic.

Wrong answer: I was always the class clown and frequently broke up the class with my antics.

Better answer (There are no real right answers!): A strong sense of humor helps me keep an optimistic viewpoint. Although I’m not an incurable optimist, humor also helps keeps problems in perspective. My sense of humor has often been an essential tool in finding the solution to a problem. (You might follow with an example of a problem that your sense of humor helped you solve.)

Looking at the questions above, if the question was “What is the most distinctive event of your life story?” Your answer might be that solving a particular problem was the most distinctive event and include how your most impressive characteristic, your sense of humor, helped you find the solution.

Remember: Tailor your college admissions essay to answer the specific questions asked. This is the most important thing you can do in writing a good college admissions essay.

Turn Obstacles to Your AdvantageAlthough we all probably would like to sweep past mistakes under the rug, in writing a college admissions essay it’s essential to face them head on. However, just acknowledging mistakes isn’t enough. For instance, if you have discrepancies in your academic record, do disclose them at some point in your personal statement. Also, explain them, not just with an excuse but with the reason for them. In addition, explain what you did or are doing to make corrections.

Have you made some “wrong choices” in your life that led you to change your path and were instrumental in setting your current goals?

Have you overcome some obstacle (physical, financial, social) that makes you a better candidate for your course of study?

Remember: Make whatever you write relevant to your course of study and your choice of school.

Know your school and be prepared to explain why you chose it with substantial, yet honest reasons.

What about its program appeals to you? What does it offer that other schools do not? What are your expectations in choosing the school?

Conclude Your Essay – The Logical ChoiceConclude your college admissions essay by fashioning a summary that shows how “this” school is the logical choice. Of course, you’ll check your essay for mechanical errors, but also check your essay to be sure that:

1. All points relate to your topic2. All points are well supported3. All points lead to a logical conclusion – your application to “this” school!

Argumentative Essay Topics

Abolish Homework

Butter Isn't Better (Than Margarine)

Social Security - R.I.P.

Tap Water – As Good as Bottled Water

Exercise: Walk - Don't Run

One World - One Currency: The Euro

Fit Insurance to the Vehicle, Not to the Driver

My Diary – My Property

Stay Out of My Room

Progressive Taxation is an Unfair System

People Should Eat Healthy Foods

Boys Better than Girls

Animals Shouldn't be Used When Testing New Drugs and Products

Students have it Tougher than Teachers.

No More Curfews

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

The Effects of Suntanning on Your Skin

How Massage Relieves Muscle Aches

What Floats Your Boat?

Why is the Sky Blue?

Why Hot Air Balloons Fly

How Yeast Makes Bread Rise

What Does a Spark Plug Do?

What Makes a Firefly Glow?

How Does Magma Turn Into Lava?

Where Does Pond Scum Come From?

What Makes Your Hair Curl?

Greasy Food and Your Health

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Frogs and Toads

North Pole and South Pole

Koala Bears and Pandas

Mammals and Marsupials

Fruits and Vegetables

Binary and Ascii

Home School and Public School

Hardwood and Softwood

Annual Plants and Perennial Plants

Stalin and Lenin

Apples and Oranges

Renting vs Home Ownership

George to George W: Bush to Bush

Ale and Beer

Eagles and Hawks

Comedy and Drama

Unicorns and Pegasus

Greek Gods and Roman Gods

Tap Water and Bottled Water

Butter and Margarine

Country music and Rap

Arranged Marriage and Love Marriage

Online Instrucction and Classroom Instruction

Eating Out vs Cooking

Cats and Dogs

Religion and Atheism

College and High School

Wine and Beer

Moths and Butterflies

Crocodiles and Alligators

Controversial Essay Topics

Breeding Animals for Research

Sparing the Rod and Spoiling the Child

Don't Save the Planet – Save Yourself!

Cloning

Who Should Help the Homeless?

Too Many People on the Planet

A Teen's Right to Privacy

Save the Whales (Trees, Eagles, etc)

Recycling – Why Bother?

One Country – One Language: Speak American

Globalization

Nature vs. Nurture

Abortion Should be Banned

Racial Profiling is Okay

Are Teens Respected Enough?

Informative Essay Topics

Organize Your Space (i.e. room, desk, locker)

How to Bake ( your favorite recipe)

Learn How to Listen

Taking Good Notes

Planting a Tree

Taking Care of Your (pet)

What to Know: Getting Your First Tattoo (or piercing)

Collecting (i.e. stamps,coins, dolls)

Plan a Garage Sale

Raise Money for (i.e. charity, group trip )

How to Cook Pasta

How to Ride a Bike

Home Improvement

Recycling

Time Management

How to Change a Tire

World Hunger

arrative Essay Topics

My First Computer

Buying My First Car

Christmas at Our House

My Favorite Holiday

My (Pet) – (Name)

My Most Embarassing Moment

My Favorite Relative

The Best Day of My Life

My Best Friend

My Biggest Mistake

An Embarrassing Moment

My Summer Vacation

My Favorite Sport

My Favorite Class

My Favorite Subject

My Role Model

A Joke That Went Wrong

Pet Peeves

My Hero is...

Persuasive Essay Topics

White Rice is Better than Potatoes

Why Apple Computers are Better than PCs

Why You Should Quit Smoking

Drink Soy Milk

Don't take Vitamins, Eat Natural foods

Why You Should Quit Drinking

Why Cable Internet is better than DSL

Why Laser Printers are better than Inkjets

Pythons Make the Best Pet!

You Need a Cell Phone!

Persuade your friend to...

Progressive Taxation is the Best System

Alcohol Should be Legal for People of All Ages

Gambling is an addiction

Everyone should become a vegetarian.

Smoking Should be Illegal

Adopt a pet

Recycle

School uniforms are Necessary in School.

There Should be No TV in Kids' Bderooms.

Our Tomorrow Will Be Better Than Today

School Uniforms are Necessary in School

You Should Wear a Seat Belt

Tap water - As good as bottled water