What makes a good essay?

Question

I have to write an answer in 150 words, assumably to show that I can demonstrate the skills of essay writing within the text. Any ideas? (This is at undergrad. and Posgrad. level).

Thanks!

xSx

Answer 1

An essay is basically structured like this:

1) Tell them what you are going to tell them (Intro)
2) Tell them (Body)
3) Tell them what you have told them (Conclusion)

Describe that process.

Answer 2

A good essay is well-structured, with clearly developed balanced paragraphs. There should be: introduction (1 paragraph), body (2-3 paragraphs), conclusion (1 paragraph). The introduction and the conclusion should be of approximately the same length; the paragraphs of the body, too.

Your ideas may not be strikingly original but what matters more is how you express them. Rich vocabulary and a variety of grammatical structures (reduced clauses, conditionals, cleft sentences, inversion, etc) are preferable.
So is the use of linking devices such as:
The purpose of this essay is to...
To begin with...
First (of all)...
Second ...
Last but not least ...
On one hand... On the other hand...
However...
For example...
Moreover/ Furthermore...
To sum up / To conclude / As a conclusion I would say...
Such linking words and phrases (not all of them at once, of course) as well as a neat structure help the reader follow your ideas with ease and make your essay a coherent text.

If you are expressing an opinion or giving a suggestion you can make use of phrases such as:
I am entirely against the idea of...
I would definitely agree...
I do not believe that ...
I think it would be counterproductive to...
There is no evidence that ...
It serves no purpose whatsoever ...
It is absolutely essential...
The best course of action would be to ...
etc...

And don't forget about the word limit ;)

I hope these tips help you :)

Answer 3

Heathen has given you the answer with one omission. Make sure you actually answer the question.

If it is a discussion question make sure you back your arguments up with evidence that is correctly referenced from recognised sources.

If you agree, say why. The same if you disagree. You will have to show that you have researched your topic, so give as many references as you can.

Never forget your word limit, you are normally allowed +/- 10%.

Always ensure your work is written to the correct level. To get the best marks you must demonstrate that you understand the question and give a full answer, applying what you have learnt and researched thoroughly.

Good luck

Answer 4

introduction- first, write generally about your topic. then define the main words which are key within the topic. you might want to talk about a particular theorist and their ideas. what do you intend to say about the topic. what do you know about it so far?

middle- state your main points, after this for each one of them take one idea and elaborate on it in more detail. when using an example or stating your argument always back it up with evidence. for instance. say it was on media violence, you write what you saw in the film you were watching and relate it to the argument or points addressed in the topic

end- conclusion, summarise main points, suggest further reading and other ideas that back up your argument, if you have your own views on a particular subject that you want to raise you can do so but keep this to a minimum

and when directly quoting from a source-be it newspaper, internet whatever, always reference within the essay, thus, preventing you from plagarism. in the biblography which goes right at the end, state all the titles books, websites- mainly all the sources you researched and used

*i know i probably haven't covered it as throughly as i would've liked to but i have described it as best i can. although i hope this helps for you and alas, best of luck with your studies!

Answer 5

Obviously you need an intro, then content then conclusion.
Brainstorm the essay first and put bullet points of what you want to cover then expand on these in the actual essay- remember if you're using quotes to back up with the info- the Harvard way!
Good luck

Answer 6

Make sure you read the question, answer the question in the way that has been requested for example, discuss, compare, ect..

Also be clear, and concise, use language that you truly understand, do not try to impress by trying to use big words unless they are of particular relevance.

Finally, ensure it is readable, and well presented.
Good Luck.

Answer 7

A single topic, explored in depth with humor. Read some of Charles Lamb's essays.

Answer 8

I think Heathen pretty much summed it up. A good essay has to be succint, fluent and rounded.

Answer 9

an interesting topic

Answer 10

sensible reading