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10 Tips to Writing the Perfect Essay, by Bronwynn Johnson
Essays can be the most time-consuming tasks if you don't
know how to sort through the unnecessary information that
accompanies the assignment. Pay close attention to these ten
tips that Graceful Grammars has created *just for you* and
you will be able to face the next essay assignment with
confidence.
- Chose a topic that has not been EXHAUSTED! It is
refreshing to read an original article. Readers will
appreciate your consideration of their feelings when they
find that you have chosen an intriguing topic.
- Provide a strong THESIS STATEMENT! Starting off on the
right foot is important. This statement should tell your
reader what your essay is going to be about. It is not
necessary to have a thesis statement prepared when you begin
to write your essay. You may find that you want to present
your topic from a different angle than originally intended.
- *Use supportive references!* When you are asked to write
an essay, a reference page is usually required for the final
draft. This is not intended to create extra work for you. It
is quite the contrary. First, when providing information
from other texts or references, it is imperative that you
give credit to the authors of those materials. Also, your
reader may want to learn more information on the subject
that you are writing and the references will be readily
available for them to use in their research.
- Don't forget to STUCTURE! Graceful Grammar is not
talking about the infamous five paragraph (introduction, 3
for the body of the text and the conclusion). No, you need
to know the basics of structure so that your essay will be
formatted correctly.
Here are a few pointers on the general structuring of an essay:
- Line Spacing: Double space when typing an essay.
- Font: Use Times New Roman in a 12-point font size
- Margins: Use one inch margins throughout your text.
- Title: Always use a title (or cover)page! Include *title,
your name, date, and the title of the course (or area of
business)*
- Print only on the front side of your paper.
- Cliches are NOT "cool" anymore! Yes, your essay may be
"completely radical" and yourself "as cool as a cucumber,"
but you can find other ways of saying it. The same goes for
your essay content. Cliches wear out over a period of time.
"Take the bull by the horns"and be considerate of your
readers by giving them an original way of conveying your
thoughts.
- Use an IMAGINARY OUTLINE! It is easy to become side-
tracked when writing. If you prepare a rough outline to
follow then you will find it much easier to piece your
information together while also maintaining objectivity.
- Regulate Subject-verb agreement! Singular subjects
require singular verbs. Plural subjects require plural
verbs. This may seem a bit elementary, however, it is often
overlooked.
- Avoid gender-specific pronouns unless they are necessary!
In such a POLITICALLY CORRECT society, it is important that
you veer away from "he" and "she" unless it is something
that is specific to what you are writing about. Use "their"
whenever possible to avoid the implication of preference
toward a specific gender.
- The Grand Finale! Use your conclusion to recapture the
main points of your essay. Reiterate your thesis statement
with a little bit of re-wording. Do not bring up new ideas
in your conclusion. A quote is a good "eye-catcher" in your
conclusion if it is in accordance to your topic.
- Proofread-Proofread-Proofread! This is a necessity!
After completing your essay *ALWAYS* thoroughly re-read it.
Have someone else check your essay for mistakes that you
might have overlooked. Second opinions always help!
Graceful Grammars has confidence in you! With these ten
steps, you are on your way to the perfect essay!
*BE AWARE*
Do not wait until the last minute to write your essay.
Cramming for a test may work for some people; however, it
becomes quite obvious when someone has hurriedly prepared an
essay. Do not procrastinate!
Happy Writing!
Copyright © 2000 Bronwynn Johnson. Bronwynn is a professional writer and editor of website content, sales copy, articles, term papers and more, and can be reached at bjohnson@copelandlane.com or by visiting writebusiness.com. Contact Bronwynn today to learn more about the full range of writing and editorial services she can provide for your business.
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