- 1). Gather your thoughts. You may not always have a specific interest in the topic you need to write about, but do some research about your options ahead of time anyway. As you look into different aspects of a subject, you may find certain angles that interest you. Those angles will therefore be easier for you to support in your essay. For example, if you're asked to write about polar bears and you know nothing about them, look for aspects that interest you, such as their personalities or how they are impacted by global warming.
- 2). Form a solid thesis statement. Creating this angle of your essay is key, so spend time making sure it's one you can support adequately. If you've researched polar bears and discovered they are interesting because they have personalities as diverse as human beings, form your thesis statement around this idea. For this purpose, your thesis statement could be, "While bears in general may be viewed as aggressive by nature, the personalities of polar bears are actually as diverse as those of human beings."
- 3). Support your topic thoroughly. Depending on the length of your essay, properly supporting your thesis could take as few as three paragraphs, or it could involve many more, as is the case with research papers. Regardless of the length, follow the format of the type of essay you've been asked to write. For persuasive essays, convince your reader to agree with your opinion or move him to action. Narrative essays tell a story. With traditional expository essays, contribute information about your thesis.
- 4). Reiterate your point with a conclusion. Think of the concluding paragraphs of your essay as a way to drive your points home. It's like a final sales pitch to sell your paper. Start with a clever transitional statement and reiterate your selling points, restructuring your sentences so you're not just repeating yourself. If you're writing a persuasive essay, end your paper with a call to action. Wrap up a narrative essays by finalizing your story. Conclude expository essays by stating a final interesting fact about your subject matter.
- 5). Cite your resources While the actual writing is the core of an essay, you may also be called upon to cite the resources you used in forming your thoughts and opinions. Follow the proper guidelines you're given for noting this information.
- 6). Add photos, charts and illustrations if you can. They help give your readers a visual for your topic and keeps their attention as well. If they are permitted in your essay, include them where it makes sense and supports your thesis.
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