What Is An Essay?

What Is An Essay? The number of points that you make will depend on the word count (1500 words, 4-5 paragraphs). Each main point that you make needs to be linked back to the introduction and the thesis statement. The introduction is usually one paragraph 15% of total word length (don't get caught up on numbers). The introduction sets up the essay by presenting background information related to the essay question. The general focus on the introduction will then become more focussed on the essay question. Provide an overview of some of the main points, or direction, of the essay. Respond directly to the essay question and clearly state what your essay intends to achieve. Don’t go into too much detail in the introduction. Always check the assignment criteria and other information in your unit site for specific requirements. But beware the added complexities involved in formatting your document or the added time required to add a diagram by hand. Some versions of the software available on public machines produce graphics that cannot be printed from other machines. Give yourself time to test for potential glitches of this sort. Secondly identify and highlight the instructional words. E.g. is the essay asking you to compare, justify, argue, discuss etc. Also underline the key words/ideas that have been used like workplace diversity, communication etc. Normally this is not included in the word count, but check with your lecturer or tutor to be sure. 2) report writing, which focuses primarily on reporting facts and making recommendations. For example, if an author has summed up their argument in one pithy phrase, then it might be worth repeating. Poor spelling, reasonably or not, gives the impression of carelessness and laziness. No new information is presented in the conclusion. Use synonyms and paraphrasing so that you do not repeat all your main points word for word. Consider how you conclude your paragraph and how you might link it to the following paragraph. Integrate evidence and examples into your paragraph from your readings to support your point. Do not simply present evidence, but analyse it at each stage, always relating it back to your assignment question. Unless you are told otherwise by the course instructor, use the Departmental conventions. You should only use a quotation when you are unable to say something better, not just because you can’t be bothered to summarize a point of view! You may return to discuss the background/context of the topic, if relevant. Tell your reader how your essay has successfully responded to the essay question. Conclusions are primarily for summing up what you have presented in the body of your essay. If you are not sure, ask your lecturer or tutor. You can also get further advice from a Writing Mentor or a Language and Learning Adviser. Areference list or bibliography â€" formatted according to your referencing style â€" on a separate page at the end of your essay is also usually required. Since your essay will be processed electronically, use the spell checker! But don’t rely on it exclusivelyâ€"proofread your essay carefully as well. You may feel that a diagram could help illustrate a point. This has the added effect of breaking up large chunks of text that can be subconsciously off-putting to the reader.