Hi, i need to write a very formal essay and was wondering if you can give me some pointers about essay writing.
These sites have excellent information.
http://members.tripod.com/~lklivingston/essay/
http://www2.actden.com/Writ_den/tips/essay/index.htm
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http://www.esc.edu/esconline/across_esc/writerscomplex.nsf/wholeshortlinks2/Essay+Writing+Menu
write notes down on paper first...then put it into essay form!!
Of course! I'd be happy to provide some pointers on writing a formal essay. Here are some key steps you can follow:
1. Understanding the Prompt: Begin by carefully reading and understanding the essay prompt or question. Make sure you have a clear grasp of what is being asked before moving forward.
2. Conducting Research: Collect relevant information by conducting thorough research on your topic. Utilize reliable sources such as books, academic journals, or reputable websites. Take notes and gather evidence that supports your main points.
3. Developing a Thesis Statement: Craft a strong thesis statement that clearly states your main argument or point of view. Your thesis statement should be concise, specific, and engaging.
4. Outlining Your Essay: Create an outline to organize your thoughts and structure your essay. Include an introduction, body paragraphs (each presenting a separate idea or argument), and a conclusion that summarizes your main points.
5. Writing the Introduction: Begin your essay with an attention-grabbing hook that captivates the reader's interest. Provide some background information on the topic and end with your thesis statement.
6. Writing Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each body paragraph to a separate idea or argument that supports your thesis statement. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence, followed by supporting evidence and analysis. Ensure a logical flow between paragraphs by using transitional phrases.
7. Providing Evidence: Substantiate your claims with strong evidence, such as relevant examples, statistics, or quotes from experts. Make sure to properly cite all sources used, following the required citation style (e.g., MLA, APA).
8. Crafting the Conclusion: Summarize your main points in the conclusion while reinforcing the importance of your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information or arguments at this stage.
9. Proofreading and Editing: Take time to review your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and coherent. Consider seeking feedback from peers, teachers, or utilizing online tools to improve the overall quality of your essay.
10. Formatting and Presentation: Follow the specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor (e.g., font size, margins, line spacing). Use a professional and readable font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
Remember, writing a formal essay requires precision, clarity, and attention to detail. Taking the time to plan, research, and revise your work will greatly enhance the overall quality of your essay. Good luck!