1. Start With a Plan

The old saying is true: if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Before jumping into your essay, create a detailed essay outline using these simple, yet essential questions:

  • What is the main idea or thesis statement of your essay?
  • What three supporting points will you focus on to explain or prove your main idea?
  • What details, evidence, and examples will you include to support those points?
  • If your essay requires research, what credible sources should you use?
  • If you were reading an essay on your topic, what would you expect the writer to cover (e.g., sources to include, counterclaims to refute, examples to use, etc.)?

2. Use Freewriting to Get Started

Even the most talented writers produce several drafts before their writing is ready for submission. Once you have an outline and have gathered relevant research, don’t wait for inspiration to strike. Instead, begin with one of your supporting points and start freewriting for 10 minutes. Set a timer! Allow yourself to write freely about that point, using some of the evidence and details from your outline, but don’t feel constrained to it. Let your ideas flow naturally, as freewriting can help you overcome writer’s block and generate fresh content for your essay.

3. Cite Sources as You Go

Proper citation is a key part of academic writing. If you wait until the end to insert citations for your sources, it will be time-consuming and increase the risk of missing critical information. Instead, cite your sources as you write. This way, you can quickly gather important details (author, title, page number, etc.) while you have the source handy. This also helps to ensure your essay is properly referenced and avoids accidental plagiarism.

4. Finish Strong with a Powerful Conclusion

What separates a good essay from a great one? A well-crafted conclusion paragraph. After writing your main body, it’s easy to feel like you’re finished. However, the conclusion is your opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the reader. Restate your thesis statement and supporting points in a new way. Consider using a metaphor or anecdote to reinforce your argument. Lastly, connect your essay topic to the real world and ask yourself, “Why is this topic important?” Providing a clear takeaway message will ensure your essay resonates with your audience.

5. Get Feedback to Improve Your Essay

The most effective way to enhance your writing is by getting feedback. It’s difficult to see your work through the eyes of others. Ask a mentor, teacher, family member, or friend to read your essay and provide constructive criticism. Peer feedback is one of the best ways to elevate your essay to the next level. While receiving critiques can be tough, remember that it’s an opportunity to improve and polish your work for better grades or more professional success.

MMT Prep can help you incorporate these pieces of advice and give you specific feedback on your writing! Our professional tutors have been trained to make your writing stronger. Schedule your tutoring session today on our website.