Tips for Writing an Essay Exam
Following are some general guidelines to follow when writing an in-class essay:
- Introduction: Place the thesis after the lead-in. Keep the introduction brief and to the point (three or four sentences including the thesis).
- Organization and Development: Identify groups of details when prewriting and organize these into paragraphs within the body of the essay. Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence. Include general details, which are supported by specific examples, which are illustrated by concrete examples.
- Length: Avoid body paragraphs which are 1-4 sentences long. Either develop additional ideas as support or combine ideas from smaller paragraphs into larger paragraphs.
- Conclusion: Don't anticipate the conclusion of the essay. Be sure the essay is fully and completely developed before moving toward conclusion, and then keep the conclusion brief.
- Grammar and Spelling: Proofread carefully focusing on habitual errors. Look for patterns of errors.
- Diction: Avoid conversational language and language patterns, including slang phrases.
- Supporting Details: Spend enough time prewriting to generate plenty of details for the body paragraphs.
