Introduction to essay writing Date: Heading Introduction to essay writing Date:

Learning Objectives These are some tips for writing essays. By the end, the daunting task of writing an essay should be a relaxing step-by-step process. We will look at Decide on the topic Prepare an outline or diagram of your ideas. Write a thesis statement Write the body – main points, sub points, elaborations Introduction Conclusion Finishing touches

Choose a topic One of two things will happen. You will: Be given a topic. Often it we be a general one and it is your job to narrow it down to something more specific. Not be given a topic. This will be scary. Having everything to choose from is having too much. Again though, it is your job to narrow it down to something more specific.

How to narrow it down Consider the following: Interest – Choose something you are passionate about. Knowledge – Choose something you know a lot about. Length – Choose something you have several points for. Purpose – Choose the style that suits you. If you prefer arguing, providing information, describing a scene, etc… Interpretation – Consider different ways a title could be read. ‘Playing games’ could be sports, computers, love or a question of seriousness.

Essay structure Create an outline of your essay. You can brainstorm key words on a page or you could try the mind map.

Essay structure With your title in the middle, create five branches stemming from the centre. These will be your paragraphs. This outline is not marked so any ideas are welcome. Introduction Main point Second point Third point Conclusion.

Create a thesis/title Your thesis is made up of two parts: Your topic – Dublin, Manchester United, School. A statement – the point of the essay. What you are trying to prove: has a rich and varied history, takes time, etc. (You can also list your three main points. Examples: requires an investment in time, patience, and materials.)

Introduction The introduction has to grab the readers attention and explain the point of the essay. Here are some ideas: Startling information. An anecdote or story that shows your point. Dialogue or quotes. A summary of your information. Finish your introduction with your thesis statement then.

Writing the body For each paragraph, you will need at least the following: Main idea. Write your main statement or point. Write down your first supporting point. Relevant quotation or evidence. Elaborate or explain. Write a short anecdote or story. Repeat steps 2-5 and end with your statement.

Conclusion The conclusion summarises, concludes and in some cases adds a final point to the essay. You can: Review your main points. Describe your feelings after these points. Use a final anecdote or quote. Do not copy your points or facts word for word. Try to add a new perspective or say it in a different way.

Final tips Read the instructions for the essay. Were you asked to do anything else: name, date, leave spaces, title it a certain way, etc. Read it again. If you cannot follow your work, the person correcting it does not stand a chance. Keep it flowing nicely. Add transition words like ‘therefore’ and ‘however’ to link sentences. Check spelling and grammar.