How To Write Essay for Students || Pg 3 / 3

 

 

5. Write clearly

An essay that makes good, evidence-supported points will only receive a high grade 

if it is written clearly. Clarity is produced through careful revision and editing, 

which can turn a good essay into an excellent one.

When you edit your essay, try to view it with fresh eyes – almost as if someone else 

had written it.

Ask yourself the following questions:

Overall structure:
A. Have you clearly stated your argument in your introduction?
B. Does the actual structure correspond to the ‘road map’ set out in your introduction?
C. Have you clearly indicated how your main points support your argument?
D. Have you clearly signposted the transitions between each of your main points for 

your reader?

Paragraphs
A. Does each paragraph introduce one main idea?
B. Does every sentence in the paragraph support that main idea?
C. Does each paragraph display relevant evidence and reasoning?
D. Does each paragraph logically follow on from the one before it?

Sentences
A. Is each sentence grammatically complete?
B. Is the spelling correct?
C. Is the link between sentences clear to your readers?
D. Have you avoided redundancy and repetition?
 
6. Cite sources and evidence

Finally, check your citations to make sure that they are accurate and complete. 

Some faculties require you to use a specific citation style (e.g. APA American Psychological Association) while others may allow you to choose 

a preferred one. 

Whatever style you use, you must follow its guidelines correctly and consistently. 

You can use Recite, the University of Melbourne style guide, to check your citations.