by Brenda Obert

Created on: May 17, 2008

Whether in high school or college, you need to know how to write a good essay. First, you need to have a working knowledge of your subject. Then, your essay needs structure. And last, you need basic pointers in just plain good writing. When you put these three elements together, you will have an unbeatable combination for an outstanding essay. Start with the first element to a good essay.

Know your subject. Learn as much as you can about your the topic. If that means taking time to do some research, do it. You won't regret it. Because when you know your subject, you will sound capable, confident, and ,above all, knowledgeable. Knowledge also means understanding. Research adds to your understanding of why something works or doesn't work. Don't be afraid to spend a little extra time researching and contemplating your topic. However, no matter how much you know, your essay will be mush without shape.

Skeletons give shape, to people and to essays. Your body has structure. Your essay needs structure. I like the sandwich method. Tell your readers what you are going to say. Say it. Then tell them what you said. If your are writing a short essay, five paragraphs should be enough. The first paragraph contains your introduction to the topic. This includes a thesis statement, a sentence that tells the reader what you want to say. This paragraph also needs to include some background information and a highlighting of at least three main points to support your thesis statement. Now that the introduction is written, you need paragraphs to support your thesis. Three main points means one well written paragraph giving details and examples to support each point. Finally, the conclusion, last paragraph, needs to summarize the important items that support your thesis, and then restate your thesis, but not using the same exact wording as in the original thesis statement. Now that you have structure pep up and refine your writing.

Pay attention to the rules. Rules too numerous to mention exist. But there are some basics to remember. Use spell check and make sure to proof for grammar errors like run-on sentences, sentence fragments, consistency in verb tenses, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. There are any number of grammar and writing guides. Keep one handy. Many word processing programs now have grammar check as well as spell check. You can also improve your essay writing with transitions, sentences at the end of each paragraph that mention in some way the topic of the next paragraph. This lead in to the next subject smooths the movement from one subject to the next and keeps the flow of your writing. Work to avoid the passive voice. In other words, don't use "to be" verbs like is, are, was, were, be. These slow down the pace of your writing and make it boring.

Don't contribute to bad,boring essays. Keep your reader interested by sharing something new and interesting that you have learned through your research. Give shape to your essay. Make it clear what you want to say; say it; review what you really want them to remember. Use all the tools of good writing you can muster. You will impress teachers, professors, and readers of all kinds because you will not have written a good essay but a great essay.

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