Debra Said:

How do you write a good essay?

We Answered:

I still rely on one single thing to help me write the best possible essay I can . . . an outline. See, the problem with most essays is that the content is disorganized. You may have great ideas and facts that you want to write about, but somewhere during the writing process you start mixing them up. Suddenly your perfect paper sounds all wrong and you want to scream! I've found that the best papers I've ever written (meaning my A papers) have all started with a good, solid outline. Once you have an outline down, your paper writes itself. Your thoughts are organized and the teacher can understand your main point (which is your thesis) and how you supported that point. A focused paper is the key to writing a good essay. Here's the format for the outline I usually follow:

I. Topic / Title

II. Introduction of Essay
A. Write a few sentences that lead into the main point of your essay
B. End the paragraph with your thesis statement (3 main points you are going to support)
     1. First point in thesis
     2. Second point in thesis
     3. Third point in thesis

III. Body of Essay
A. Topic One - First Point in Thesis
     1. Support your point with either quotations or solid evidence
     2. Have at least five sentences
B. Topic Two - Second Point in Thesis
     1. Support your point with either quotations or solid evidence
     2. Have at least five sentences
C. Topic Three - Third Point in Thesis
     1. Support your point with either quotations or solid evidence
     2. Have at least five sentences

IV. Conclusion
A. Write a few sentences summarizing your essay
B. Restate your thesis and how you proved your point

Once you fill in the blanks to this outline with your topic and information, the rest is easy! Make sure to check your spelling and punctuation, and then you're good to go!

Wesley Said:

How do you write a good essay introduction?

We Answered:

okay
cheery little assignment

let's get you an A

to help, I really need to know what are the two books

Daniel Said:

How can you write a good essay??

We Answered:

E.B. White said that the clarity of your writing reflects the clarity of your thought. So first, you must think clearly. What are you trying to say? How will you support or back up your statements?

To be a good writer, you must read good writing. Find some and read it. Ask your teacher for samples or find a collection of essays at the library. (Might need a librarian's help for this.)

Next, learn to express yourself concisely. That is, do not use many words or fillers. Make your point, support it, give an example, and move on. Your point (or thesis) should be meaningful, interesting, or have some significance.

I highly recommend E.B. White's book Elements of Style for all ages. Following its principles will improve your writing.

Another important consideration is to not start late. If your essay is due the following week, begin putting your thoughts down. Find passages to support your points, write up a first draft. I go back to the draft a day or two later and sometimes tear it apart. Other times, I might simply move things around and help it flow better. In any case, you won't have a good essay if you start late.

Carlos Said:

How can you write a good essay for history?

We Answered:

First you have to narrow your topic. You need to first have a specific focus. Then develop thesis statement. Next, make an outline. Lastly, write your essay. It is very hard to write a good essay for any class if you do not follow these steps, this ensures organization and focus. Hope this helped!