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A (Very) Simple Way to Improve Your Writing

  • Mark Rennella

improving essay writing

It’s called the “one-idea rule” — and any level of writer can use it.

The “one idea” rule is a simple concept that can help you sharpen your writing, persuade others by presenting your argument in a clear, concise, and engaging way. What exactly does the rule say?

  • Every component of a successful piece of writing should express only one idea.
  • In persuasive writing, your “one idea” is often the argument or belief you are presenting to the reader. Once you identify what that argument is, the “one-idea rule” can help you develop, revise, and connect the various components of your writing.
  • For instance, let’s say you’re writing an essay. There are three components you will be working with throughout your piece: the title, the paragraphs, and the sentences.
  • Each of these parts should be dedicated to just one idea. The ideas are not identical, of course, but they’re all related. If done correctly, the smaller ideas (in sentences) all build (in paragraphs) to support the main point (suggested in the title).

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Most advice about writing looks like a long laundry list of “do’s and don’ts.” These lists can be helpful from time to time, but they’re hard to remember … and, therefore, hard to depend on when you’re having trouble putting your thoughts to paper. During my time in academia, teaching composition at the undergraduate and graduate levels, I saw many people struggle with this.

improving essay writing

  • MR Mark Rennella is Associate Editor at HBP and has published two books, Entrepreneurs, Managers, and Leaders and The Boston Cosmopolitans .  

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How to Make Your Essay Better: 7 Tips for Stronger Essays

Krystal Craiker headshot

Krystal N. Craiker

How to make your essay better

Essay writing doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few tips, you can improve your writing skills for any type of academic essay.

How to Write Better Essays

7 tips on how to make your essay better, how to become a better essay writer.

The best way to sum up how to write better essays is, “Make sure you’re answering the question.”

This sounds obvious, but you would be surprised how many students struggle with this.

From not understanding the prompt to poor research skills to off-topic body paragraphs, it’s easy for an essay to derail.

We’ve got seven tips for writing better essays that will help you avoid common mistakes and craft the best essays possible.

7 tips for imrpoving your essay

Here are our top tips for improving your essay writing skills.

Understand the Prompt or Research Question

The first step in your writing process is to fully understand the essay topic. If your professor gave you a prompt for your academic essay, spend some time analyzing it.

First, take note of whether you’re writing an expository or persuasive essay. The tone, structure, and word choice will differ between essay types.

Pay close attention to the wording of the prompt.

If your teacher wants you to “analyze” the effects of new technology in World War I, but you turn in a descriptive overview of the technology, you are not answering the question.

If they have given you a topic but no prompt, you’ll need to create a guiding question for your research.

Be specific in what you are trying to research, or you’ll end up overwhelmed with a topic that is too big in scope.

“Symbolism in modern literature” is too broad for a term paper, but “How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use symbolism in The Great Gatsby ?” is an achievable topic.

Improve your essay tip

Take Excellent Notes

Once you understand exactly what your essay is about, you can begin the research phase. Create a strong note-taking system.

Write down any idea or quote you might want to use. Cite every note properly to save time on your citations and to avoid accidental plagiarism.

Once you have gathered your research, organize your notes into categories. This will help you plan the structure of your essay.

You’ll likely find that some of your research doesn’t fit into your essay once you start writing. That’s okay—it’s better to have too much information to support your argument than too little.

Write a Strong Thesis Statement

Possibly the most important step in essay writing is to craft a strong thesis statement. A thesis statement is a brief—usually single-sentence—explanation of what your essay is about.

The thesis statement guides the entire essay: every point you make should support your thesis.

A strong thesis is specific and long enough to address the major points of your essay.

In a persuasive or argumentative essay, your thesis should clearly establish the argument you are making.

Make an Outline

Once you have all your research, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How do you turn the information into a cohesive essay?

Rather than writing an essay with no roadmap, an outline will keep you on track. An outline helps you organize your thoughts, plan your arguments, and sort your research.

A good outline saves you time, too! You can compile the relevant evidence in your notes before writing, so you don’t have to find that specific quote in the middle of essay writing.

An outline will also stop you from reading your finished essay and realizing you went completely off track.

With an outline, you can avoid finding paragraphs that don’t support your thesis right before you submit the essay.

Improve your essay tip

Craft a Great Introduction

An academic essay needs a strong introductory paragraph.

The introduction is the first impression of your essay. It prepares the reader for what’s coming and gets them excited to read your paper.

A good introduction has three things:

  • A hook (e.g. insightful statement, quote, interesting fact)
  • Brief background information about the topic
  • A thesis statement

Using this formula will help you write a strong introduction for your essay.

Have Original Ideas and Interpretations

The best academic writing advice a professor ever gave me was, “You’ve shown me what other people have said about the topic. I want to know what you think about the topic.”

Even a fact-heavy or data-heavy essay needs original ideas and interpretations. For every piece of information you cite, whether you quote or paraphrase it , offer original commentary.

Focus on insights, new interpretations, or even questions that you have. These are all ways to provide original ideas in your essay.

Proofread for Readability

A good essay is a proofread essay.

Readability, or how easy something is to read, has many factors. Spelling and grammar are important, but so is sentence structure, word choice , and other stylistic features.

Academic essays should be readable without being too simple. In general, aim for a readability score that is close to your grade level in school.

There are several ways to check readability scores, including using ProWritingAid’s Readability Report.

ProWritingAid's readability report

The quickest way to increase readability is to fix grammar and spelling mistakes . You can also raise the readability score by using more complex and compound-complex sentences.

ProWritingAid can offer suggestions on how to improve your essay and take it to the next level.

Our free essay checker will check for spelling and grammar errors, plus several other types of writing mistakes.

The essay checker will offer you suggestions on sentence length and passive voice.

It will help you trim the excess words that bog down your writing by analyzing your sticky sentences and overused words.

The essay checker is here to help you turn in an error-free essay.

Want to improve your essay writing skills?

Use prowritingaid.

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Krystal N. Craiker is the Writing Pirate, an indie romance author and blog manager at ProWritingAid. She sails the seven internet seas, breaking tropes and bending genres. She has a background in anthropology and education, which brings fresh perspectives to her romance novels. When she’s not daydreaming about her next book or article, you can find her cooking gourmet gluten-free cuisine, laughing at memes, and playing board games. Krystal lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband, child, and basset hound.

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  • How to Improve Your Essay Writing Quickly: A Step-by-Step Guide

About the Author Stephanie Allen read Classics and English at St Hugh’s College, Oxford, and is currently researching a PhD in Early Modern Academic Drama at the University of Fribourg.

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Whatever your brand of brilliance – whether you’re a physics genius, a sporting hero or (like me) a blinky, bookish type – there comes a point in most students’ academic careers when being good at life means being good at essays.

You should also read…

  • Focus and Precision: How to Write Essays That Answer the Question
  • How to Conquer Your Nightmare Subjects

As the subjects you study get more advanced and complex, you’re increasingly asked to think, evaluate, and have opinions where you once might have simply made calculations or learned definitions. In general, the further you progress through your education, the more rote learning will be replaced by the kind of analysis usually best demonstrated by essays. If by some miraculous feat you manage to avoid writing anything substantial at high school, it’s something you’ll almost certainly have to face at university – yes, even if you’re studying a science subject (although the essays won’t usually be quite as long). One way or another, essay writing comes to us all.

Image shows the silhouette of a runner against the setting sun.

The likelihood is that at some point in the not-too-distant future (unless you are both incredibly reluctant and startlingly resourceful) you will have to write an essay, either in exam conditions or in your own time, that will count towards a final grade in some way. If this is a scary prospect for you, there’s good news and bad news. The bad thing about essay writing is that it’s not something – like French verbs, or the ability to run long distances – that miraculously gets better on its own if you just keep having a go. To improve at essay writing, students often need a paradigm shift: to figure out exactly what isn’t working, and why, and to learn and apply a new way of doing things. The good news, on the other hand, is that the individual skills required to write a strong essay are things you can learn, practise and improve in. This article is all about pinpointing what those skills might be, and giving you some suggestions as to how you might develop them. Not all these tips will work for all of you, but being good at essay writing, like being good at any other school-related discipline, is all about trying different things, and devising your own way of doing things.

Getting organised

Image shows the wood-panelled old library at Merton College, Oxford.

Before you even start planning an essay, I’d recommend you sit down and have a quick think about how you want to do it. First, what resources will you need? The internet, or library books? This might affect where and how you decide to work: I have wasted a huge amount of time trying to find versions of articles on the internet that I knew were in books at the library, or procrastinating because I wanted to work at home rather than leaving the house. I would recommend taking yourself to a library ninety-nine times out of a hundred. Secondly, if you’re working from books or downloadable articles, can you afford to work somewhere without the internet? The absence of Facebook and Instagram will guarantee your concentration will be about a hundred times better, which will show in the quality of your work. Next, make a little timeline for your essay. Make a list of everything you want to read and try to get hold of all your material before you start. Think about how long you’re going to spend reading and researching, planning, and writing – leaving a day or two before the deadline to make any significant changes, or just in case things don’t go to plan. I’d recommend allotting 3 hours to read a 20-page article, and about a day to write 2000 words. This might sound like a silly amount of planning, but the point of it is this: hundreds of all-nighters have taught me that essay-writing becomes incredibly stressful and painful when you’re up against the clock, and a reader can tell immediately if something is rushed or dashed off at 2am on the day of the deadline. What’s more, you simply won’t have your best creative ideas under pressure. If you’ve got time, have a look at this – comically eighties and slightly cringey – video about creativity . A lot of what the speaker says about thinking and playfulness is, in my opinion, directly applicable to essay-writing.

Gathering information

Image shows rows of bookshelves in a library.

Some teachers set reading lists for essays, or make suggestions about where students should look for information; others ask you to find sources yourself. Even if your teacher does prescribe reading, it’s always worth seeing whether you can find something extra that will add breadth, depth or a fresh perspective to your argument. However, it’s important to think carefully about whether a source is reliable and valuable.

What sort of sources should I use?

The most appropriate sources will vary from subject to subject. Here are some common ones: – Academic articles: These are essays by scholars at universities, and usually published in journals or as books. They are always useful, and can be found by looking in the library (ask your teacher for recommendations!), having a poke around Google Scholar, or, if your school has a subscription, on the website JSTOR.org. Search for key words and phrases and see what comes up. – Newspaper articles: might be useful evidence for an essay in History, but may not be detailed or scholarly enough for Biology. If you use a newspaper article or opinion piece, think about the factors that might bias it and include your thinking in your essay! – Wikipedia: a very useful starting-point, and an increasingly reliable resource. However, avoid referencing it: a teacher or examiner might not like it and may take against your essay. Instead, look at the reference section at the bottom of the article and see where the writer has gathered their information from. – Online blogs: in general, stay away from these, as you don’t know who’s written them and how valuable their opinion is, or how reliable their facts. The exceptions are blogs by well-known experts.

How should I take notes?

Image shows rows of bookshelves in a library.

It might feel like the world’s greatest faff, but taking good notes from your sources will save you a huge amount of time when you come to plan and write your essay: – Type out notes as you read, rather than simply underlining or highlighting – thus you’ll have a summary of the most important chunks of essays ready to use when you plan, rather than having to trawl through whole documents again looking for quotations. – For this reason, if you think you might want to quote something, copy it out in the exact wording of the writer. – Type notes in a different colour for each new source you read. In order to engage intelligently with what you’ve read, you’ve got to remember who said what, what they meant by it, who they were fighting against and whether you agreed with them or not. Colours are a really helpful visual aid to doing this. – At the end of each new essay or article, write a few lines summarising the author’s main points, and whether or not you agree with them. N.B. Your critical engagement with the scholars and authors whose work you’ve read will count for a huge chunk of marks. This does not mean listing a load of names and rehearsing their arguments; nor does it mean disagreeing with everyone for the sake of it. Instead, think about whether or not what they’re arguing holds true in your experience – or compare them to each other.

Image shows an old map, covered in pictures of monsters.

Planning is the single most important step in writing a good essay, and, frustratingly, also the step that’s most often rushed or neglected by students. If your essays often get criticised for having poor structure or unclear lines of argument, chances are you need to practise your planning. I use the following step-by-step process to turn my notes into a good plan; you can try it too, and see if it works for you. 1) Re-read your notes a couple of times, and underline anything you think is particularly important, interesting, or relevant to the area of the topic you want to discuss. As far as possible, try and organise your thoughts into sections, and see if you can link ideas together. Tip: It might be that you’ve got two or three different ideas for a topic, and you’re not sure which to go with: in this case, you can use a couple of different spider diagrams to see which works best. Where do the ideas link together most easily, or fall together into neat sections? Which question would you be able to answer most fully? 2) Sit back and look at your diagram(s), perhaps alongside your notes, and work out the main ‘point’ or conclusion you want to make in your essay. The best essays are characterised by a clear line of argument throughout – I don’t really buy the idea that essays should present both sides of a question. I always decide what I’m trying to say ; the point I want to conclude with, before I start. Now, the job you’ve got in writing the essay is to set this conclusion up. 3) Work backwards, using the links you’ve made on your spider diagram: what do you need to argue or show to make your point? Jot these ‘points’ down in a couple of words each. This forms the beginnings of a skeleton for your essay. 4) Start to fill out your skeleton with information from your notes, and any extra ideas you might have. If you’re writing a literature essay, it’s CRUCIAL that you include some close analysis of passages to support your argument. Jot down the sentences that link these in to the greater structure. 5) Fill out your skeleton more and more, until it’s essentially a rough draft in bullet points. Every twist or nuance of your argument should be in there; every introductory and concluding sentence for every paragraph, making it explicit how this paragraph answers your question.

Image shows a woman with her two daughters on either side of her, reading an essay that one of them is presenting to her.

6) At this point, it’s very helpful if you can get someone (a friend or a parent will do) to read over your plan and see if it makes sense. Does everything follow? Is it all relevant? Your plan should be so complete that the person who reads it will immediately be able to spot any flaws. Move things around, add or delete to incorporate their criticism: it’s much easier to change something in bullet-point format than when it’s all written out properly. Don’t expect this process to be quick or easy. For a 1500-word essay, I usually write a plan of about three sides, and spend at least three hours making sure that before I put pen to paper, every kink in my argument is ironed out. The pay-off of doing it this way is that the writing process is short and easy – a case of joining up the dots, polishing bullet-points into sentences – much better than coming up with ideas and organising thoughts at the same time as finding the words to express them. Get better and better: If you struggle with structure or clarity, practise your planning! Give yourself a limited amount of time (say, two hours), pick three previous essay questions from an exam or coursework paper, and plan your answers as thoroughly as possible. Get your teacher to look over your plans when you’re done.

The ‘actual writing’-bit can be the most daunting and stressful part of the essay process, and is where most students get stuck. Here are some tried-and-tested solutions to common writing problems:

I can’t get started

Image shows someone tapping a yellow pencil on a blank page.

It’s quite common to want your first sentence to be arresting, paradigm-shifting, to propel your reader headlong into your essay. However, this desire can be paralysing: one of the most stressful feelings in the world is that of staring at a blank page, thinking about the number of words you’ll need to fill it all up. The key to getting started is to just write something . Don’t worry about how good it is – get it down, and move on, and come back and change it when you’re well into your flow.

Writers’ block

Go back to your plan and make sure you know what you’re arguing. If you still can’t get the words out, try and write down what you want to say as simply as possible. Then move on to an easier section of the essay. Alternatively, you can try going for a walk, making a cup of tea or having a break.

It all feels a bit wrong…

Sometimes, in the process of writing, you’ll realise that you entirely disagree with two-days-ago you, and you don’t really believe in the argument you’re trying to make. If it is the case, go back to the drawing board. Don’t plough on regardless – a lack of conviction will show in your essay. Return to your plan, and see if you can use similar material but change the emphasis, and perhaps the odd bit of evidence, to produce a different argument.

Everyone has their own individual writing style: your might be as purple and flowery, or scientific and direct as you like (within reason). However you write, to get top marks, it’s crucial that you learn to be precise .

Style-wise, there are two poles of wrongness: vagueness, and over-complication. Of course, every subject has its particular vocabulary, and learning this will be crucial, and sharpen your analysis; but remember that little words are your friends too! Make sure that you know the exact meaning of each word you use. Crucially, make sure you know exactly what each word you’re using means, and think carefully about whether you’re applying it in the right context – remember that whoever is reading your essay will know better than you the meanings of zeugma, stagflation or symbiosis. Finally, don’t hide behind subject-specific vocabulary: make sure that you’re using terms to contribute to and develop your essay, and nothing of the flow is lost.

The boring stuff

– Get good at conventions like footnoting, and writing bibliographies. Examiners really do check these! – When you’ve finished, leave the essay for a day or two, and then re-read it. If possible, get someone to proofread for you. This way, you’ll avoid making lots of silly mistakes that threaten the clarity and flow of your essay.

Image credits: banner ; runner ; old library ; new library ; pens ; map ; parent ; tapping pencil ; egg . 

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How to Improve Essay Writing Skills

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If you've been told time and time again that you express great ideas in your essay writing but your writing needs polishing, you aren't alone. The following tips will help improve your writing skills and turn you into a great writer.

Avoid repetition: It's an essay killer

Though it may seem difficult when writing a five-page term paper on a single idea or character, avoiding repetition is essential to improving your writing skills. When you use the same words ad nauseam, your reader views it as a sign of laziness. Here are three tactics that will help eliminate wordiness and eradicate repetitive words and phrases:

  • The simplest approach to improving your writing skills is to eliminate the repetitive word or phrase from your essay.
  • If you feel you need to keep the idea, replace the word or phrase with something similar. This may mean substituting a pronoun for a proper name, such as he instead of George; or it may mean searching for an alternative. Use a thesaurus only to remind you of words you already know but have temporarily forgotten. Don't select unfamiliar words that merely sound good; this risky path often leads to the use of words with different underlying meanings, which ultimately can hurt you more than the original repetition.
  • The last of our techniques for improving your writing skills is more difficult, but usually the most effective. Begin by crossing out the offending repetition. Next, circle key words in the sentence (skip words such as a, of, while, it, etc.). Now craft a new sentence that retains the circled words but discards the repeat ones. This may require you to add more ideas to round out the thought, but our term paper editors have found that expanding on your new sentence in this manner will improve your paper.

Active voice: Breathe life into your essay writing

In order to improve writing skills, we encourage students to write in the active voice . For those of you who have misplaced your grade school grammar book, this means that the subject of the sentence performs the action; it does not receive the action. Compare the following examples:

  • Tom tossed the ball (active)
  • The ball was tossed by Tom (passive)

To find the dreaded passive voice, look for a "to be" verb (is, am, are, was, were, be, being, or been) followed by a past participle (often a verb ending with -ed). Ask yourself who is performing the action (the verb). Move that person or subject in front of the verb and make the necessary grammatical changes.

Trite phrases: Banish the banal

In order to improve your writing skills, force yourself to delete all idioms and clichés. Your reader wants original thoughts, not processed or canned sentiments. Yes, this means you must replace those mundane words with something clever of your own. Reduce—perhaps to zero—the number of similes and metaphors, particularly if they are common ones.

There may be instances in which you have devised the perfect comparison, one that highlights the essence of your argument, but chances are that an experienced reader won't be as impressed with your creativity as you are. While certain types of writing (advertising, speeches, etc.) may call for this, such phrases are anathema in formal writing. Eliminate these to improve your writing skills.

Literary present: Just do it

When writing about literature, you must write in the literary present. Your natural inclination will be to write:

The river symbolized freedom and enlightenment for Huckleberry Finn.

But the literary present demands that you write:

The river symbolizes freedom and enlightenment for Huckleberry Finn.

A key tip to improving your writing skills is that everything should be in the present tense. It doesn't matter that you read the book last week, or that the author wrote it a century ago. Write about the characters and events as though they exist in the here and now. This is one of those conventions that is just easier to accept than to question.

Mechanics: Sweating the small stuff is important when improving your writing skills

Always run a spell check. It only takes a moment, and it will save you the embarrassment of turning in an analysis of Julius Caesar in which you consistently misspell Caesar. Pay attention to the suggested replacements when editing your essay, however, as these canned wizards do not always understand your meaning. Even Bill Gates can't turn "it" into "in" or "you're" into "your" for you, so you also need to comb through the paper carefully with your own eyes to find every error before handing it in. Brilliant essays receive lower grades if simple mistakes are left unchanged.

Ask for a second opinion

If you're thinking that this seems like a lot to remember, you're right. But focusing on one or two areas at a time will help you steadily improve your writing skills.

Image source: condesign/Pixabay.com

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How to Improve Essay Writing

Last Updated: December 28, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 42,194 times.

Do your teachers always mark up your essays with red ink? Are you eager to learn how to express yourself clearly and effectively? If so, there are plenty of steps you can take to improve your essay writing skills. Improve your grammar, refine your style, and learn how to structure a well-organized essay. Since academic essays are especially tricky, learn the ins and outs of formal, scholarly writing. Be sure to read as much as possible; seeing how other authors use language can improve your own writing.

Improving Your Grammar and Style

Step 1 Review basic grammar...

  • For example, while writing, you might not know whether to use “who” or “whom,” so you check the rule online. You’d use “who” for a person doing an action (called a subject), and “whom” for someone who gets something done to them (called an object). “Who called you,” and “Whom did you call” are grammatically correct.
  • Find a general guide on grammar at https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/grammar/index.html .
  • If you’re a student, see if your school has a writing lab. If so, they’ll have useful resources on grammar and tutors who can help you improve basic writing skills.

Step 2 Write in the active voice whenever possible.

  • That said, some exceptions apply. If you’re discussing a scientific study, “The subjects were divided into control and experimental groups,” is better than “Researchers divided the subjects into control and experimental groups.” This is because passive voice emphasizes the object of the action rather than the subject. In scientific writing, the object is more important than the subject.

Step 3 Choose concise words and phrases.

  • For example, “The author of the selection establishes the foundation of the work’s controlling metaphor in the initial stanza,” is packed with unnecessary words. A cleaner version of this example could be, “The author introduces the poem’s controlling metaphor in the first stanza.”
  • Instead of “The animal sleeps during the day and is active at nighttime,” write “The animal is nocturnal.”
  • Rather than "The fox ran very fast," write "The fox sprinted."
  • In the sentence, “The argument is compelling and convincing,” compelling and convincing are close enough in meaning. Using one would get the point across, but using both is repetitive.

Step 4 Use punctuation to set your writing’s rhythm.

  • Keep in mind the clause that follows a semicolon needs to be a complete sentence. It should also continue the idea conveyed in the clause before the semicolon. Proper use would be, “The platter dates to 1790; examples of British transfer-ware from this period are rare.”
  • Use punctuation strategically. A complicated sentence, like this one, with too much, or confusing, or misplaced, punctuation is hard, for most readers, to follow. Aim instead for clear, easy-to-read writing.

Step 5 Vary your sentence structure.

  • For example, “The platter dates to 1790. It is in pristine condition. There are no nicks or cracks,” are choppy and repetitive.
  • Better phrasing would be, “An impressed back-stamp indicates that the platter was made in 1790. With no nicks, cracks, or discoloration, its condition is pristine; few pieces of this age and quality exist.”
  • Keep in mind repetitive sentences aren’t necessarily choppy. For instance, “Since the platter has a maker’s mark, accurately determining its age is possible. Since it has no nicks or marks, it is in excellent condition,” are repetitive sentences, even if they’re not short and choppy.

Using Academic Language

Step 1 Avoid slang, contractions, and other informal expressions.

  • For example, instead of, “I think it’s pretty crazy how the artist made the painting so detailed,” write, “The artist achieves an impressive level of detail.”
  • Note that you can use the first person and contractions in less formal essays, such as an autobiographical sketch or college application essay. However, your writing still shouldn’t be too casual. “I found myself questioning my assumptions” is fine but, in most cases, “I was like wow I didn’t know what I was talking about” is too casual.

Step 2 Use objective, specific language instead of making generalizations.

  • Say you’re writing an essay about school uniforms. “Uniforms are good because they make it easier to get ready in the morning,” might be a fair point, but it's not the strongest argument you could make. Backing up your point with objective evidence would be more convincing.
  • On the other hand, “According to a 2017 study, schools reported an average of 44% fewer disciplinary referrals the year after implementing mandatory uniforms,” cites a specific, concrete fact.
  • Additionally, use specific quantities whenever possible. In this example, “an average of 44% fewer disciplinary referrals,” is more effective than “a significant decrease.” [5] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

Step 3 Build your knowledge of your discipline’s vocabulary.

  • Learning how to properly use subject-specific terminology can help you express yourself clearly and effectively. Academic writing is a dialogue, and learning the language of a scholarly dialogue is essential.
  • For instance, if you’re writing a literary analysis, you might discuss how an author makes a comparison. While technically correct, the word “comparison” isn’t as precise as literary terms such as “metaphor” or “simile.”

Step 4 Include big words and technical terms only when it’s necessary.

  • Using convoluted jargon or big words just for the sake of it will make your writing clunky. Furthermore, you’ll lose credibility if you misuse a complex word or technical term.
  • For instance, “By utilizing efficacious examples, the author elucidates an irrefutable argument” is verbose. Simpler phrasing would be, “The author presents a convincing argument by using effective examples.”

Mastering the Writing Process

Step 1 Analyze your essay question or prompt.

  • Note that an essay prompt’s keywords have distinct meanings. Analyze, for example, doesn’t mean to describe; it means to pull apart and examine something’s structure.
  • Suppose you have to analyze an argument. Your essay needs identify the argument's rhetorical elements, such as pathos (appeals to emotion), logos (employing reason or logic), or ethos (relying on authority or credibility). After breaking down the argument's structure, you'll then need to explain how the author uses these devices to make their case.

Step 2 Research...

  • Remember to check your sources’ credibility. If you’re writing about a former president, find the biography scholars consider most authoritative. Check the authoritative biography’s footnotes and references, which will help you track down more reputable sources.
  • You won't conduct thorough research if you’re writing an essay for a test. Instead, read the sources provided with the exam. For example, if a literature essay test requires you to analyze an excerpt, read the passage carefully.

Step 3 Develop a succinct,...

  • For instance, “Schools should implement mandatory uniforms because they reduce disciplinary issues, help students focus on learning, and promote school spirit,” is clear and specific.
  • The thesis, “Mandatory uniforms are beneficial, so schools should implement them,” makes a claim, but “beneficial” is vague. It doesn’t convey why uniforms are good, so it’s not a strong thesis.

Step 4 Create an outline...

  • For the next Roman numerals, write the subtopics, citations, and other details that you’ll cover in each body paragraph.
  • In the following example, Roman number II. would be an essay section, and letters A. through D. are body paragraphs that each focus on a sub-topic: II. Uniforms reduce disciplinary issues   A. 44% decrease in detentions after introducing uniforms (Smith, 2017)   B. Suspension decreased by 60% (Smith, 2017)   C. Absenteeism and tardiness decreased (Pew, 2013)   D. 66% of students report less bullying (Ohio Board of Education, 2016)

Step 5 Use the TEEL...

  • Topic sentence: School uniforms may reduce the number of serious behavioral problems.
  • Explain: Evidence suggests dressing alike lowers peer pressure, promotes discipline, and prevents the display of controversial or offensive imagery.
  • Evidence: For example, according to the Ohio Board of Education, schools that introduced uniforms reported 44% fewer disciplinary referrals, such as detentions and suspensions. Furthermore, 66% of surveyed students said they witnessed fewer bullying incidents after they started wearing uniforms.
  • Link: These findings suggest that implementing uniforms is an effective way to foster a disciplined school environment.

Step 6 Address a counterargument to strengthen your claim.

  • A counterargument could be, “Opponents claim that mandatory uniforms stifle self-expression and lower self-esteem. Although uniforms do prevent personal expressions of style, studies show they actually improve confidence and encourage the expression of ideas. Rather than harm self-image, research suggests that uniforms positively impact mental health. In a 10-year Oxford University study, a majority of students reported that wearing uniforms boosts their self-esteem. With a level playing field, they worry less about choosing clothes that fit the norm.”

Step 7 Give yourself ample time to revise your draft.

  • First, revise your essay’s content. Check for unclear language, unorganized spots, awkward sentences, and weak word choices. Next, proofread your work and fix any spelling or grammatical errors.
  • For important essays, like a term paper or an admissions essay, have someone read your work and offer feedback.
  • In general, try to leave a day for edits at the bare minimum. For a big research paper, scheduling a week or more is ideal.
  • For a quick, paragraph-long assignment that’s due the next day, you might only need 15 or 20 minutes for revisions. If you're taking a timed essay test, set aside the last 5 to 10 minutes to check your work.

Expert Q&A

  • To improve your writing, read as much as you can. Reading a mix of fiction, newspaper articles, and scholarly works will help you learn new ways to structure sentences, refine your grammar skills, and improve your vocabulary. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • You might not have to conduct thorough research or develop a scholarly thesis if you’re writing an informal essay. However, basic elements such as strong word choices, varied sentence structures, and concise language still apply. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/passive-voice/
  • ↑ https://slc.berkeley.edu/nine-basic-ways-improve-your-style-academic-writing
  • ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/academic_style.pdf
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/sciences/
  • ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/vocabulary.pdf
  • ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/Essay_writing_process_accessible_2015.pdf
  • ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/super%20essay.pdf
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/developing-thesis
  • ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/content/paragraph-structure

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5 Tips for Improving Your Essay Writing Skills

5 Tips for Improving Your Essay Writing Skills

5-minute read

  • 5th November 2021

As a student , essay writing is an integral part of your education. So, how can you improve your essay writing skills? We’ve got five top tips that may help:

  • Analyse the essay question so you understand the assignment.
  • Write an outline to organize your ideas and prepare your essay.
  • Do research to find evidence and sources to support your ideas.
  • Use the drafting process to refine your essay before submitting it.
  • Get your essay proofread to make sure it is clear and error free.

Read on to learn more about how to improve your essay writing skills.

1. Analyze the Essay Question

The most important step in writing an essay is understanding the assignment. As soon as you have your essay question, then, try to identify the following key words:

  • Content words – Content words will tell you what the topic of your essay should be. For instance, in “Discuss the causes of World War II,” the key content words are “causes” and “World War II.”
  • Instructional verbs – Instructional verbs will give you a sense of how to approach your essay. There is a big difference, for example, between explaining an idea and analyzing it. Look for what you’re being asked to do in the question, then let this guide your essay writing.
  • Limiting words – Limiting words will tell you what to focus on. For example, “In discuss the consequences of the Brexit for trade in the EU,” the phrase “for trade in the EU” limits the scope of the essay question (i.e., while Brexit may have many consequences, the focus here should be trade in the EU).

Try underlining or highlighting these types of words in your essay question.

2. Create an Outline

Another great essay writing skill is to outline your work before you start writing. Most essays will follow a basic format, which you can use to structure an outline:

  • An introductory section or paragraph that presents the topic, your thesis statement , and any important background information the reader will need.
  • The body paragraphs (or sections), each of which should discuss a single point, example, or idea that supports your main argument.
  • A conclusion , where you summarize how your argument supports your thesis.

When planning an essay, then, you can break it down in the way shown above and make notes about what each part will say. Once you are happy with your outline, you can then use this to guide the essay writing process.

3. Use Evidence and Sources Effectively

Having a point you want to argue for or a claim you want to make is fine, but a good essay will also use evidence and sources to support the points it makes.

Once you have worked out a position to argue for, then, do some research to find evidence that supports it. This can include quotations, statistics, and illustrations.

As well as including this evidence in your essay, though, you’ll need to analyze it and show how it support your arguments. Whatever you use, make sure there’s a clear connection between the evidence and the point you’re trying to make.

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In addition, remember to cite your sources properly! You need to show where you’ve found your evidence. This will usually include citing sources in the text of your essay and adding a reference list or bibliography at the end of your document, where you should provide full details of the sources you cited. If you’re not sure how to approach referencing sources, check your style guide or ask your professor.

4. Use the Drafting Process

The biggest mistake people make when writing an essay is to only write it once! Rather, you should always redraft at least once to polish your initial version.

Once you’ve written a draft, then, take a break from it (ideally at least overnight). Then, when you’re ready, go back over your essay and look for ways to improve it. This might be simply checking that you express yourself clearly. But you might also spot ways to strengthen your arguments, such as by adding more evidence.

If you do this at least once, your essay will be far stronger. And there’s always room for further redrafting if you want to be certain your writing is perfect.

5. Have Your Essays Proofread

Okay, strictly speaking this doesn’t quite fall under the category of “essay writing skills” in the same way as the other points here. But one of the smartest things you can do before submitting an essay is have it proofread by an expert.

At Proofed, for example, our academic proofreaders can check your writing to make sure it reads clearly and smoothly, correcting any spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors that slipped through the drafting process. We can even provide feedback on how to improve your academic writing.

If you need help polishing an essay, then, submit it for proofreading today.

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Rafal Reyzer

Improving Your Essay Writing Skills: 10 Tips For Students

Author: Rafal Reyzer

Writing an essay is more than just stringing words together. It involves presenting a coherent argument supported by evidence.

Improving your essay writing skills requires commitment and following a series of clear steps, from understanding the essay prompt to refining your final draft. In this article, we will explore some practical yet effective strategies for composing compelling essays that will captivate your readers’ attention.

Here are the steps for improving your essay writing proficiency:

1. understand the essay prompt.

Before embarking on your writing journey, ensure you grasp the nuances of the essay prompt. Identify the pivotal themes, questions, or issues the prompt delves into. This will steer your research and help maintain your focus on pertinent information. Your essay should revolve around a certain theme or topic. For example, is your essay about college applications, or about getting accepted into an MBA program? Knowing the main gist of your essay is always the first step before you start putting words together in writing.

improving your essay writing through research

Writing an essay is more than just sharing your opinion or concept, you also have to back up your theses with solid research using credible sources.

2. Gather and Analyze Information

Research your chosen topic diligently. Pore over reputable sources such as scholarly books, academic journals, and credible websites to get pieces of information relevant to your subject matter. As you amass data, subject each source to rigorous analysis and evaluate its authenticity. Your gathered information will provide credible evidence to support your arguments, enabling you to create a well-informed and persuasive piece.

3. Explore Supplementary Resources and Assistance

There are moments when the demands of academia or professional life can become overwhelming. In such junctures, considering alternative avenues to alleviate the pressure is prudent. If you find yourself juggling multiple responsibilities, the thought of enlisting assistance, like pondering “Could I pay someone to write my essay ?” might arise. This avenue offers the chance to collaborate with seasoned writers skilled in crafting impeccable papers that meet your academic or professional goals. Opting for this approach not only ensures punctual submission but also provides fresh insights and perspectives on your topic.

4. Create an Outline

A well-structured outline functions as a navigational chart for your essay. Systematizing your core ideas and supporting arguments not only streamlines the writing process but also guarantees a seamless flow of thoughts. Having a skeleton outline in place would make it easier for you to flesh out the content of your essay. It will organize the whole piece into a cohesive unit from introduction to conclusion.

5. Craft a Captivating Introduction

Embark on your essay journey with a captivating introduction that situates the context. Consider commencing with a thought-provoking question or an astounding fact linked to your subject matter. You should create a hook in your introduction that would make your reader stay until the end. Remember, many readers deviate from the piece if the first few lines do not pique their interest.

6. Build Strong Thesis Statements

Your thesis statement encapsulates the crux of your essay’s argument. It must be clear, concise, and debatable. Make sure it reflects the purpose of your essay and provides a roadmap for the reader. A strong thesis statement helps establish clarity, coherence, and direction, making it easier for the audience to understand the purpose and significance of the essay’s content.

7. Developing the Essay’s Body

Every paragraph within the body should center on a single idea or argument interconnected with your thesis. Utilize topic sentences to introduce the core concept of each paragraph and furnish supporting evidence to substantiate your claims. The essence of your essay hinges on the body. This is where you present and expound on each point of your argument and convince the readers to believe, or at least consider what you are trying to convey.

Harness evidence and exemplars

Remember to gather pieces of evidence and examples to support your essay’s main argument.

8. Harness Evidence and Exemplars

Lend weight to your arguments with statistics, research findings, and real-life instances. Well-referenced evidence amplifies the persuasiveness of your essay. No matter how strong your thesis statement is, it will not have much impact without supporting facts and similar incidents in the past to prove it.

9. Craft a Coherent Paragraph Structure

Uphold a coherent structure within each paragraph. Employ a lucid topic sentence, furnish corroborative details, and conclude by intertwining the paragraph with your thesis. Just like movie plots, your essay should build up gradually until it reaches your conclusion. It should have a cohesive train of thought from start to finish.

10. Create a Smooth Flow of Ideas

Ensure your essay flows seamlessly between paragraphs and sections. Employ transitional phrases and words to sustain a logical progression of ideas. Stick to your topic from start to finish. Don’t deviate much from the main subject when citing points and examples so as not to confuse your readers and make them miss whatever you are trying to convey.

additional strategies for refining your essay

Take the time to refine your essay before submitting it. You may ask a friend or relative to give it a quick scan and share their comment.

Additional strategies for elevating essay writing proficiency:

1. incorporate counterarguments.

Acknowledging and addressing opposing viewpoints bolsters your argument. This showcases your grasp of the topic’s complexity and your aptitude for engaging with diverse perspectives.

2. Use Visual Aids for Clarity

Incorporating graphs, charts, and images augments comprehension for readers. Visual data elucidates intricate concepts and renders them more accessible. When using visuals, provide accompanying explanations and tether them to your central argument. Visual tools not only give the readers a break from seeing just texts, but they can be an alternative medium for conveying your message in a non-verbal way.

3. Use Analogies and Metaphors

Analogies and metaphors serve as potent tools for illustrating abstract concepts in tangible terms. Drawing parallels between novel ideas and familiar notions aids readers in grasping your message. For instance, likening an intricate scientific process to the gears of a clock can enhance understanding. Analogies and metaphors infuse depth and evoke sensory and emotional engagement.

4. Edit and Proofread

Revision stands as the cornerstone of refined essays. Scrutinize your work for clarity, coherence, grammatical correctness , and precision in spelling. Soliciting feedback from peers or mentors can offer invaluable insights as well.

5. Use Citation and Referencing

Accurate citation is pivotal to circumvent plagiarism. Adhere to relevant citation styles like APA, MLA, or Chicago, ensuring uniformity across your citations and references.

6. Address Ethical Considerations

Certain essays might confront ethical aspects relevant to your subject matter. Address these concerns earnestly and thoughtfully. Confronting ethical dimensions demonstrates a holistic perspective and a knack for critical analysis. This imparts nuance to your essay and underscores your capability to scrutinize the subject matter from multiple angles.

7. Do a Final Review

Before submitting your essay, undertake a final review to conform with all requisites. Scrutinize formatting, citations, and overall presentation.

Improving your essay writing skills requires practice and dedication. Employing these strategies empowers you to translate your expertise into prose that educates, convinces, and captivates your readers. Remember, a meticulously structured essay not only showcases your knowledge but also your aptitude for explicating intricate concepts. Next up, you may want to explore a guide on how to write an interdisciplinary research paper .

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7 Effective Strategies to Improve Your Essay Writing Skills

improving essay writing

Essay writing is an essential aspect of academic and professional life. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or a professional, your ability to convey your ideas effectively through writing can significantly impact your success. Therefore, it is crucial to improve your essay writing skills to excel in your academic or professional career.

While some people possess a natural talent for writing, most individuals can learn to write well with some effort and practice. This essay explores various strategies that can help you improve your essay writing skills and elevate your writing to the next level.

1. Develop Strong Writing Habits

To become a skilled writer, you must develop strong writing habits. One of the most effective ways to do this is by setting aside dedicated time each day to write. Whether it's for 30 minutes or an hour, making writing a regular habit can help you improve your skills over time. 

Additionally, it's crucial to create a comfortable and distraction-free writing environment. Find a quiet and comfortable place to write, turn off your phone and other electronic devices, and focus solely on the task at hand.

2. Read Extensively and Analyze Writing Styles

Reading extensively is another effective strategy for improving your essay writing skills. By exposing yourself to a wide variety of writing styles and genres, you can learn different techniques and approaches to writing that you can then apply to your own work. 

Pay attention to how authors structure their arguments, how they use language to convey meaning, and how they engage readers. By analyzing these elements of good writing, you can incorporate them into your own work and improve your writing skills.

3. Develop Strong Research Skills

Good research skills are a critical component of effective essay writing . The ability to find, evaluate, and use sources effectively can help you write well-informed and well-structured essays. 

Start by familiarizing yourself with different research methods and sources, such as academic journals, books, and online databases. Additionally, ensure that you properly cite all sources in your work, as plagiarism can result in serious consequences.

4. Use a Clear and Concise Writing Style

Clear and concise writing is essential for effective communication. Avoid using overly complicated vocabulary and convoluted sentence structures that can confuse readers.

Instead, strive to write in a simple, straightforward, and easy-to-understand style. This will make your arguments more accessible and help you connect with your readers.

5. Edit and Revise Your Essay

Editing your essay and revising it is a critical step in improving your essay writing skills. Start by reading through your work to identify any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Then, revise your work for clarity and organization.

Ensure that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and supports your thesis. Additionally, ensure that your writing flows smoothly and logically from one idea to the next.

6. Seek Feedback and Learn from Criticism

Seeking feedback is an essential strategy for improving your essay writing skills. Share your work with others and ask for their honest opinions and suggestions for improvement. 

This can help you identify areas where you need to improve and provide you with valuable insights into your writing. Additionally, be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.

7. Practice Writing on Different Topics

Writing on different topics is an effective way to challenge yourself and expand your writing skills. Experiment with different writing styles and genres, and practice writing on topics that you're not familiar with. This will help you develop a broader range of writing skills and increase your versatility as a writer.

Improving your essay writing skills is a challenging but rewarding journey. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to learn and grow. By utilizing the strategies discussed in this article, you can improve your writing and increase your chances of success in academia, career, and personal endeavors.

Remember that writing is not just about conveying information or ideas; it is also about engaging and inspiring your readers. Your ability to articulate your thoughts effectively and persuasively can make all the difference in achieving your goals.

So, take the time to develop your writing skills, practice regularly, and seek feedback from others. With patience and hard work, you can become a proficient and confident writer who can express yourself clearly and effectively.

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improving essay writing

Introduction:

Essay writing is a crucial skill that every student needs to master in order to excel academically. The ability to express ideas, thoughts, and arguments clearly and logically is the cornerstone of producing well-crafted essays. While essay writing may seem daunting at first, with consistent practice and utilising the right techniques, anyone can improve their writing skills. In this article, we will explore several strategies to help you enhance your essay writing abilities.

1. Pre-Writing Preparation:

Before you begin writing, it is essential to perform some pre-writing activities:

a. Understand the Assignment : Read the prompt or assignment carefully and identify the type of essay required (narrative, descriptive, persuasive, etc.). Ensure you understand all guidelines, word limits, and formatting specifications.

b. Research : Gather information from credible sources such as academic journals, books, newspapers or official websites. Take notes on relevant points while keeping track of your sources for citation purposes.

   c. Outlining: Create an outline to organize your thoughts and ideas systematically. This will serve as a roadmap for your essay, ensuring that your points flow logically.

2. Write a Strong Thesis Statement:

A thesis statement is the central argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise and specific. Ensure that your thesis statement reflects the main idea of the paper while highlighting your stance on the topic. Place the thesis statement at the end of your introduction paragraph.

3. Focus on Structure:

A well-structured essay helps improve readability and ensures clarity of thought:

a. Introduction : Begin with a catchy hook (an interesting fact, quote or anecdote) that grabs readers’ attention. Then provide some background information about the topic before stating your thesis statement.

b. Body Paragraphs : Organize each body paragraph around one main point that supports your thesis statement. Start with a topic sentence, provide evidence or examples, and then explain how they relate to your main argument.

  c. Conclusion : Summarize the points discussed in your essay and restate your thesis statement. Provide a final thought or call-to-action that leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

4. Focus on Clarity and Coherence:

Ensure that each sentence contributes to the overall message of the essay. Use clear language and avoid jargon or complicated terms. Use appropriate transitions between ideas to establish coherence within your paragraphs and between them.

5. Revise and Edit:

Once you have completed your first draft, take some time away from it before beginning the revision process:

   a. Content Revision: Evaluate if your essay effectively addresses the prompt, supports your argument, and follows the outlined structure. Be critical on whether each section is substantial, well-researched, and relevant.

   b. Grammar and Style : Review your essay to ensure it is free of grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, or inconsistencies in tone or style.

6. Seek Feedback:

Ask a teacher, friend or family member to read your essay and provide constructive feedback on areas that require improvement. Incorporated feedback can help refine your work.

Conclusion:

Improving essay writing is an ongoing process that requires practice and determination. By adhering to these steps for pre-writing preparation, focusing on structure and clarity, revising and editing thoroughly as well as seeking feedback, you will undoubtedly enhance your essay writing skills, helping you achieve academic success. So keep practicing, polishing your skills, and watch your essays transform into well-crafted pieces of writing!

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improve eaasy writing

7 Ways Students Can Use to Improve Essay Writing

L K Monu Borkala

Do you know effective essay writing is a technique? How to share your thoughts, demonstrate your understanding, and leave a lasting impact. Refining writing is essential to academic achievement. This article shows students that improving essay writing is a constant and enjoyable process.

Academically, writing captivating essays is a skill that develops with experience. This post will discuss seven methods students can use to improve their essay writing. Students accept that improvement is a continuous process.

Understanding continuous growth can help students turn writing into a satisfying journey. It’s self-expression and intellectual progress.

Why An Essay’s Strong Point Is Important?

Your major point is what your essay is all about. This is the main thought you wish to share. A strong point helps your essay be clear and enables you to say what you want to communicate better. It’s like the main point you want people to get from your writing.

How To Improve Your Essay Writing

Developing a consistent writing routine:.

When you write, consistency is very important. Set aside regular time to write. It could happen once a week or every day. Making writing a habit can help you get in the mood quickly. You train your brain to be ready and creative. Select a time that suits you to write.

Breaking Writing Into Steps:

When you try to write everything at a time, it can be too much to handle. Split it up into smaller steps that you can take. Start by coming up with ideas or making an outline. Next, write, edit, and revise.

Every effort is a building brick, making the process easier. It makes your writing more organized and lets you focus on one part at a time, making it easier and less stressful.

Reading And Analyzing Essay

Writing essays requires reading to learn different writing styles, enhance vocabulary , and understand organizational systems. Reading gives you examples of compelling arguments, intriguing openers, and gratifying conclusions to follow in your writing.

Regular reading improves critical thinking, which is essential for writing well-reasoned essays.

Exposure to various content inspires creativity, allowing fresh and innovative approaches to topics. Reading improves your writing and subject knowledge, establishing the groundwork for intelligent and effective essay writing.

Expanding Vocabulary

Essay quality is greatly affected by vocabulary expansion. A strong vocabulary helps you communicate concepts clearly, adding nuance to your writing. It lets you find the best phrases to express your ideas, making essays more interesting.

Read varied materials, use a dictionary, and use new words in your work to improve and incorporate them. By using a range of terms, you improve your language and writing style, making your essays better.

Feedback And Revision

To improve your writing, you need to get comments and go through the revision process. Both student and teacher reviews are helpful because they can show you blind spots and ways to improve your essays.

Friends and teachers giving helpful suggestions not only point out strengths but also weaknesses, which helps people keep learning.

Reviewing structure, coherence, and clarity helps you revise your work strategically. After writing the first draft, view your essay with new eyes to ensure logic and clarity.

Feedback and active revision improve essay quality and foster a mindset of continual growth, which is essential for enhancing writing skills over time.

Utilize Writing Online Tools.

These days, there are tools dedicated to writing! Similar to Grammarly, it corrects your grammar as you write by highlighting any errors and offering suggestions. Another one is called Article rewriter it helps to simplify and organize your writing.

You can rewrite or edit your essay writing for improvement, so it is easier to read. These article rewriter tools are powered by Artificial Intelligence. These advanced algorithms enable them to generate human-like output which is better in readability.

When you write, using these tools not only helps you become a better writer but also makes the process easier. They are like having a bunch of helpful writing aids in your back pocket.

Research Thoroughly

Learn as much as you can about your topic! Research is necessary whether you’re writing stories or facts. Not only does studying make your writing better. It also makes it seem more reliable. Building a solid work foundation.

You can check your mistakes thoroughly. If you’re choosing someone’s work make sure you’re giving credit to them. The people who read your writing must accept what you say and the information you give them.

Improving your essay writing skills is like going on a never-ending journey and is fun and valuable. Seven methods in the piece can help make this trip easier for students. It advises starting and ending essays like book chapters to make them clear and entertaining. Getting into a regular writing habit and breaking the process into smaller steps can help. You can learn new words and write in different ways if you read a lot. It’s also essential to try out new words and get remarks from people like teachers or friends. There are also helpful tools for writing that can fix mistakes and help you plan your work. A lot of study on your subject makes your writing better. Students can use these steps to improve their essay writing.

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Facts about improving essay writing skills.

Sunny

Written by Sunny

Published: 19 Jan 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

Facts About Improving Essay Writing Skills

In the intricate world of words, essay writing is the beacon of effective communication and intellectual finesse. Whether you’re a student, a storyteller, or a seeker of persuasive prowess, refining essay writing skills is a continuous pursuit. In this article, we uncover 12 helpful facts, guiding both novices and seasoned writers toward mastery. From crafting compelling theses to orchestrating sentence symphonies, each fact unveils a facet of the essay writing craft. Join us on this literary journey as we decode the secrets that transform essays from ordinary to outstanding.

1. Manage your time efficiently

Consider writing an essay as a journey. When on a trip, you don’t procrastinate about seeing all the landmarks and drinking a little cocktail on a beach. So try not to postpone finishing your assignment either. Think about the amount of work that has to be done. Notice the date, word count or pages, and instructor’s expectations. You should make time for research, drafting, writing, and revision. How much time would you need to complete each step smoothly?

Lack of time can make any college task overwhelming. Professors may give you several assignments with the same deadline, or you may simply encounter difficulties while writing. That could cause a lot of stress. What if we tell you that you shouldn’t be all alone in this journey? Edubirdie is an essay writing service that will save you time and energy. Besides, you will get professional assistance and plagiarism-free content. It is ok to ask for help, so if you are pressed for time or just need a piece of professional advice on your writing, then do not hesitate to contact their experts. It will really improve your grades and help you achieve academic success.

2. Understand the assignment

The second step on our journey called how to get better at writing essays refers to understanding the assignment. Make sure you read the prompt carefully. Also, read it as soon as you receive it. Don’t put it on the side thinking it is pretty simple. Reading the assignment will save you time and stress later. Pay attention to verbs such as analyze, describe, and compare. It will show you how you should approach the topic you are working on. Also, think about questions of what, when, where, why, and how. These words guide you to the specific information.

Improve essay with a good structure

3. explore the depths.

Before you start writing, you should do some research. You can begin with a brainstorm. It serves to remind you of everything you already know about the given topic. That will help you identify the gaps in your knowledge, so you will focus on books that will fill these gaps. Try to read as many relevant books as you can. That way, you will be able to compare sources and look at the topic from different perspectives. Research every side of the argument. It’s an academic practice you should adopt. Also, don’t forget to take notes. You won’t be able to remember all the facts you read. At the end of the research, formulate your own opinion. Try not to turn your essay into repeating someone else’s opinion. Challenge it. Check if it makes sense. Show your critical thinking.

4. Prepare a compelling central argument for your essay

You should know that a clear and concise thesis statement is essential. But what is the thesis statement exactly? A thesis statement entails sentences or two that clearly identify the topic being discussed. You can use it to organize and develop your essay. A thesis statement also provides your readers with a guide to your argument. A strong core argument is placed at the beginning of the essay. It should express one main idea. Remember that your readers need to discover that your paper has one main point. More than one idea can confuse your audience about the subject of your paper.

5. Outline your ideas

An essay outline is the essay’s skeleton . A well-organized essay outline will help you structure your essay logically. It will also ensure that your ideas flow coherently. Although every paper is a unique work, there are some basic parts of an essay. At the beginning of your paper, you should place an introduction . This segment will introduce the topic you will be covering in your essay. Here you should state your thesis we talked about in the previous lines.

The most comprehensive section of your paper is the body section. It entails at least two paragraphs. The number of paragraphs depends on the type of essay you are writing. For example, you could write a compare-and-contrast essay. In that case, you should write one paragraph for each comparison and contrast you made. At the end, you should place a conclusion. In this part of the paper, you wrap it up and summarize the points you made in your body paragraphs. You can also bring out final thoughts and perspectives related to the topic you researched.

Foster Language Artistry

6. analyze well-written essays.

The next essay writing strategy you should adopt is improving your language skills. There are numerous tips you can incorporate in your writing. One of them is reading and analyzing essays by skilled writers. Notice their sentence structure and use of language. Pay attention to how they convey complex ideas. Read those papers aloud and notice the sound of their sentences. Don’t hesitate to learn from masters.

7. Expand vocabulary

Another key how to improve essay writing is expanding vocabulary. Try to learn new words regularly. It sounds challenging, but explore the nuances of language in everyday use. Use apps and websites that provide synonyms, antonyms, and other lexical relations. Learn how to use words effectively in context. Keep the dictionary close while writing. A full dictionary definition would educate you about root words and related words. It will help you expand your vocabulary.

8. Read widely

Through education, you had to read a diverse range of materials. Maybe you hated it back then, but it had a good effect on your writing. It exposed you to different writing styles, vocabulary, and perspectives. You should continue that practice. Read a variety of materials, such as literature, essays, articles, and fiction, of course. Remember that there’s no such thing as a bad book. You will find something useful in any written content.

9. Practice writing regularly

Who would say that writing will help you improve essay writing skills ? Try to practice writing consistently . Let writing become a habit. You can even set aside time for creative writing. Journaling will help you clear your mind and recognize the emotions that you may not have known about. Your friends will be delighted to receive letters from you. The more you write, the more comfortable you’ll become with expressing your ideas.

10. Attend writing workshops

Another way to boost your writing skills is by participating in writing workshops. This is the perfect environment that provides structured learning. You will be getting feedback from professionals and other participants. You will also get the opportunity to interact with affirmed writers. Who knows, maybe one day you will become that famous writer in this kind of workshop.

11. Revise and edit your masterpiece

Don’t worry; writing an essay is almost done. But you should gather the strength to revise and edit your masterpiece. In fact, revision is crucial. Take the time to review and refine your essay. At this moment, you look for grammar and punctuation errors. Try to improve your sentence structure and word choice. Read the essay aloud. It will help you notice awkward phrasing. It will also ensure that your writing flows naturally.

12. Seek constructive feedback

After your paper is done, you should receive feedback . Feedback will help you gain an outside perspective that can enrich your existing ideas. Ask peers to express an opinion about your work. It will provide a deeper awareness of what you are doing well and what could be improved. Teachers can offer excellent feedback too. It will help you better understand and meet the expectations of instructors and assignments. Be open and understand the message. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement. It will also provide valuable insights into your writing style.

Writing an exquisite essay requires a lot of time and focus. We try to offer answers to the question of why writing skills are important. We also provide some tips that you will use on your journey called writing an essay. Embrace the art of essay writing with enthusiasm! Remember, each essay is a unique opportunity to share your thoughts and insights. So, enjoy writing an essay, and let the process become a fulfilling journey of self-discovery and intellectual adventure!

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Essay Papers Writing Online

Esl essay writing – a comprehensive guide to improving your english writing skills.

Esl essay writing

Looking to upgrade your written English essays? Look no further! In this article, we’ll share some valuable insights and pointers to help you refine your English composition skills. By implementing these practical tips, you’ll be able to express yourself more eloquently and effectively in your written assignments.

Refine Your Vocabulary: One of the key components of enhancing your essay writing skills lies in improving your vocabulary. Expanding your repertoire of words not only adds depth and sophistication to your writing, but it also enables you to articulate your arguments more effectively. Make it a habit to learn and utilize new words, and consider using a thesaurus to find synonyms that lend precision and nuance to your ideas.

Master Grammar and Punctuation: Proper grammar and punctuation are crucial for conveying your ideas accurately. A well-structured sentence with correct punctuation not only enhances readability, but it also showcases your attention to detail and professionalism. Brush up on the fundamentals of grammar and punctuation, and proofread your work thoroughly to eliminate any errors that might distract your readers.

Understand the essay prompt thoroughly

Before starting to write an essay, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the essay prompt. By thoroughly comprehending the prompt, you can ensure that your essay addresses the topic appropriately and fulfills all the requirements set forth by the prompt. Understanding the prompt allows you to organize your thoughts more effectively and create a well-structured essay.

Begin by carefully reading the prompt and identifying the key elements and instructions. Take note of any specific questions or tasks mentioned in the prompt and make sure to address each one in your essay. Consider the tone and style of writing that the prompt requires, as this can guide your writing process.

In addition to understanding the main topic or theme of the essay, it is essential to grasp any additional guidelines or limitations provided in the prompt. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the essay’s length, formatting requirements, and any specific sources or references you may need to include.

By having a thorough understanding of the essay prompt, you can approach your writing with clarity and confidence. It allows you to stay focused and avoid drifting away from the main topic. Understanding the prompt also enables you to tailor your essay to meet the specific requirements, which can ultimately result in a higher quality piece of writing.

In conclusion, taking the time to understand the essay prompt thoroughly is a critical step in the essay writing process. It allows you to grasp the main topic, identify any specific tasks or questions, and adhere to the guidelines provided. By understanding the prompt, you can write an essay that effectively addresses the topic and meets all the requirements, thereby enhancing your essay writing skills.

Develop a clear thesis statement

When it comes to writing an ESL essay, one of the most important elements to consider is developing a clear thesis statement. A thesis statement is a concise and specific sentence that presents the main argument or point of your essay. It not only provides a clear focus for your writing but also helps guide your reader through your essay.

Having a clear thesis statement is crucial because it sets the tone for your entire essay and informs your reader about the main idea you will be discussing. It allows you to present a coherent and organized argument, as well as ensure that your essay stays focused on its topic.

To develop a clear thesis statement, you need to identify the main idea or argument of your essay. This can be done by analyzing the topic and determining what specific point you want to make or what aspect you want to explore. Once you have identified the main idea, you can craft a thesis statement that clearly states your position or opinion on the topic.

It is important to keep in mind that your thesis statement should be concise and specific. Avoid using vague or general statements that do not clearly convey your main argument. Instead, use language that is precise and to the point.

In addition to being concise and specific, your thesis statement should also be arguable. This means that it should present a position that can be debated or opposed. Avoid stating facts or obvious statements that cannot be challenged.

Overall, developing a clear thesis statement is essential for writing a successful ESL essay. It provides focus and direction for your writing, helps guide your reader, and ensures that your essay stays on track. By taking the time to craft a strong thesis statement, you will set yourself up for a well-organized and persuasive essay.

Create an outline before starting to write

One of the crucial steps in effective essay writing is creating an outline before you begin drafting your essay. An outline is a helpful tool that allows you to organize your thoughts and ideas, ensuring that your essay follows a logical structure and flows smoothly.

When you create an outline, you are essentially creating a roadmap for your essay. You can think of it as a skeleton, providing the framework for your writing. By outlining your essay, you can identify the main points you want to make and the supporting arguments or examples you will use to back up your claims.

There are various ways to create an outline. You can use a traditional format, such as a hierarchical list with roman numerals, letters, and numbers. Alternatively, you can use a more visual approach, such as a mind map or a flowchart. The important thing is to choose a format that works best for you and helps you organize your thoughts in a clear and logical manner.

Start by writing your main topic or thesis statement at the top of the page. This will serve as the central focus of your essay. Then, list the main points or arguments you want to make in support of your thesis. These will form the body paragraphs of your essay. Under each main point, include the supporting details or evidence that will strengthen your argument.

Remember to use concise and clear language in your outline. Use short phrases or keywords rather than full sentences. This will help you stay focused and prevent you from becoming overwhelmed by too much detail. Your outline should provide a snapshot of your essay’s structure and main ideas.

Creating an outline may take some time and effort at the beginning, but it will ultimately save you time and make the writing process smoother. It will help you stay organized and ensure that your essay has a coherent structure. So before you start writing your next essay, be sure to create an outline to guide you along the way.

Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar

One of the essential aspects of effective essay writing is the use of appropriate vocabulary and grammar. Choosing the right words and constructing sentences correctly can greatly enhance your writing and help you convey your ideas clearly and effectively.

When writing an essay, it is important to use a variety of vocabulary to express your thoughts and arguments. Avoid repetitive words and phrases by utilizing synonyms and related terms. This will not only make your essay more interesting to read but also demonstrate your language proficiency.

In addition to vocabulary, using correct grammar is crucial for conveying your ideas accurately. Make sure to pay attention to subject-verb agreement, verb tenses, and sentence structure. Use punctuation marks, such as commas and periods, appropriately to clarify your sentences and avoid confusion.

Furthermore, avoid using overly complex or convoluted language. While it may be tempting to include fancy words or lengthy sentences to impress your readers, it can actually hinder the clarity and coherence of your essay. Instead, aim for simplicity and clarity in your writing, ensuring that your ideas are easily understandable.

Lastly, proofreading is a vital step in ensuring that your essay is free from grammatical errors and vocabulary mistakes. Take the time to thoroughly read through your essay, checking for any errors or inconsistencies. You can also seek feedback from others to get a fresh perspective on your writing and identify areas of improvement.

In conclusion, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar is essential for effective essay writing. By choosing the right words, constructing sentences correctly, and paying attention to grammar rules, you can enhance the clarity and coherence of your writing. Remember to proofread your essay to eliminate any errors and improve its overall quality.

Practice writing essays regularly

Practice writing essays regularly

In order to enhance your capabilities in composing essays in English, it is essential to engage in regular writing practice. Consistently putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard will facilitate the development and refinement of your writing skills, allowing you to become more proficient in expressing your thoughts and ideas in a clear and coherent manner.

Engaging in regular essay writing exercises enables you to enhance your ability to articulate your arguments effectively, structure your ideas logically, and convey your message concisely. By engaging in consistent practice, you will gradually gain confidence in your writing abilities and become more comfortable with expressing your ideas in English, ultimately becoming a more proficient writer.

Regular writing practice also helps you to expand your vocabulary and improve your grammar and sentence structure. As you write more frequently, you will inevitably encounter new words and phrases, allowing you to broaden your repertoire of vocabulary. By practicing writing essays regularly, you will also become more attuned to grammatical structures and sentence patterns, enabling you to construct more sophisticated and well-organized sentences.

Moreover, regular essay writing practice provides an opportunity for self-reflection and self-improvement in terms of your writing style and techniques. By reviewing your own essays, you can identify areas for improvement and work on refining your weaknesses. Additionally, you can seek feedback from peers or teachers, which can provide valuable insights and tips for enhancing your writing skills further.

In conclusion, practicing writing essays regularly is a fundamental step towards improving your English writing skills. By engaging in consistent practice, you can enhance your ability to convey your thoughts and ideas effectively, expand your vocabulary, and refine your grammar and sentence structure. Embrace the opportunity to practice writing essays regularly, as it is through this dedication and perseverance that you will become a more skilled and confident essay writer in English.

Edit and proofread your essays carefully

One of the most important steps in successful essay writing is to thoroughly edit and proofread your work. After spending time brainstorming ideas, developing a strong thesis statement, and organizing your thoughts, it is crucial to go back and review your writing for errors, clarity, and coherence.

To ensure your essays effectively communicate your ideas, it is essential to edit them with a critical eye. This means carefully reading through your essay multiple times, paying attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Look for any awkward or unclear sentences and rephrase them to improve clarity. Additionally, check for consistency in verb tense and ensure that your ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next.

Proofreading goes hand in hand with editing and involves looking for any typographical errors or mistakes that may have been missed during the initial editing process. It is crucial to read your essay word by word, checking for small errors such as missing or repeated words, incorrect word usage, or any other grammar mistakes. Consider reading your work aloud to help identify any awkward phrasing or sentences that do not sound natural.

While editing and proofreading are important for catching errors, these steps are also an opportunity to refine your writing and strengthen your argument. As you review your essay, ask yourself if your ideas are well-supported with evidence and if your arguments are logical and persuasive. Look for areas where you can provide additional examples or clarify your reasoning.

Another helpful tip is to have someone else read your essay. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch mistakes or unclear passages that you may have overlooked. Consider seeking feedback from a classmate, friend, or tutor who can provide constructive criticism and help you improve your writing.

In conclusion, editing and proofreading are vital steps in the essay writing process and should not be ignored. By taking the time to carefully review your work, you can ensure that your essays are clear, cohesive, and error-free. With practice and attention to detail, your essay writing skills will continue to improve, resulting in more confident and effective writing.

Seek feedback from others to enhance your writing

One of the most effective ways to elevate your writing abilities is to seek feedback from others. By sharing your work with peers, teachers, or professional writers, you can gain valuable insights and improve your writing style. Constructive criticism allows you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, refine your ideas, and polish your language choices.

When seeking feedback, it is important to approach the process with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Be open to suggestions and different perspectives, as they can provide fresh insights and ideas that you may not have considered before. Embrace the opportunity to receive feedback, even if it means revising your work multiple times. Remember, the more feedback you gather, the better equipped you are to refine your writing skills and produce high-quality work.

One way to seek feedback is to join a writing group or workshop where you can share your writing with like-minded individuals. This allows you to engage in discussions, receive critiques, and learn from others who have similar goals. Additionally, participating in writing communities online or attending writing conferences can provide you with a wealth of feedback and resources to enhance your writing.

When sharing your work for feedback, it is beneficial to provide specific questions or areas you would like reviewers to focus on. This ensures that you receive targeted feedback that addresses your concerns and helps you address specific areas for improvement. Additionally, consider seeking feedback from individuals with different backgrounds and perspectives to gain a diverse range of opinions.

Remember to view feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than a personal attack. Embrace constructive criticism as a means to enhance your writing skills and bring your ideas to life. Through seeking feedback from others, you can continually refine your writing style, develop a strong voice, and improve your overall writing ability.

  • Share your writing with peers, teachers, or professional writers to gain valuable insights.
  • Approach feedback with an open mind and a willingness to learn from different perspectives.
  • Join a writing group or workshop to engage in discussions and receive critiques.
  • Participate in online writing communities or attend writing conferences for additional feedback and resources.
  • Provide specific questions or areas of focus when sharing your work.
  • Seek feedback from individuals with different backgrounds and perspectives.
  • View feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

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    Foster Language Artistry. 6. Analyze well-written essays. The next essay writing strategy you should adopt is improving your language skills. There are numerous tips you can incorporate in your writing. One of them is reading and analyzing essays by skilled writers. Notice their sentence structure and use of language.

  21. Improve Your Esl Essay Writing Skills With These Tips

    In conclusion, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar is essential for effective essay writing. By choosing the right words, constructing sentences correctly, and paying attention to grammar rules, you can enhance the clarity and coherence of your writing. Remember to proofread your essay to eliminate any errors and improve its overall quality.