A Good College Essay
January 21st, 2009Three basic rules for writing a good college essay
Before you start writing your essay, you need an essay plan whether the essay topics will be analytically stated and then you finish it with a nice essay conclusion. But before you start have a look at the following rules:
FIRST RULE
Expand your answer with your own words
It is a fundamental principle to expand your essay with your own words and not repeat phrases, paragraphs or proposals that are already formulated. You know that copying/plagiarism result to failure.You must have kept notes from your studies. If the notes are good, they will certainly be effective. Do not hesitate to use them in your written essay.The thoughts will be developed much better if you follow your own words and your expressions. This is certainly the best way to remember the evolution of the subject matter. Use your arguments and thoughts in a structured way.If you want to add a paragraph or paragraphs of another writer, then you should report the name and the source of the information in your text and in references.
SECOND RULE
Answer the issue that you have been given
It is common in distance education students not to understand exactly what is required from a written essay. Read carefully the title and be sure of your answers. The titles of the written essays, and very often the final examinations may be answered in many ways. In some cases they refer to the material you have studied in combination with literature, sometimes they refer to a mix of different views with reference to parallel texts, etc. Whatever form your title has, before you start writing you should be absolutely sure about the type of essay and the subjects that need to be covered. Give some time to understand the title. Try to understand what you are asked to do.
THIRD RULE
Organize the material that you will develop
In many cases the titles of your written essay refer to more than one chapter. This means that you should make a synthesis of the material you have studied - and possibly other materials - and provide a structured response. Remember that your teacher will mark other essays as well. In order to do it right s/he should always start from the introduction of the text. Your introduction… The text should follow a logical order, which would explain and lead your professor to your thoughts. The more easily s/he understands the structure and organization of your essay, the more positive approach s/he will have in assessing your written essay.
How to write an essay?
- You must be clear and explain your reasoning in a way that is understandable.
- You should document your writings whether they are your ideas, or ideas of others.
- You must be able to evaluate or compare views and theories.
- Give the exact meaning of words and phrases.
- You should always use and construct arguments.
- You should always result in factual conclusions.
These are some basic rules for writing a good essay.
Good luck with your college essay and stay focused!