Emma Said:

Anyone have any good tips on writing a 5 paragraph formal essay for an English exam with a time limit?

We Answered:

This may sound obvious, but since so many students don't do it--I'm suggesting it.

Step 1. Read the question very carefully!! Note exactly what you are being asked to write about. Most essay prompts have more than one question in them. Underline each question part. If the Q says "discuss," then discuss. If it says "compare," or "contrast," be sure to do that. Same thing goes for "explain," "describe," etc.
Plan your time: It is not quicker to just start writing without a plan--you'll waste more time rewriting things.

Step 2. Now you've figured out what you're being asked to do, start coming up with many ideas (brainstorming). Write ALL your ideas down; then go over them and see which ideas you know most about and which tie in with each other. Pick 3 of those ideas--make sure they will answer the essay question!!

To come up with ideas ask yourself the "W" questions: what, why, when, where, how, who?

Step 3. Write a topic (thesis) sentence. That is, you need to write a sentence (or two) that clearly states the ideas you will write about. You must always keep a clear focus on your essay's topic--the thesis, and what questions you are answering)

For example, you introductory paragraph could contain something patterened along these lines: I like my school for three reasons. We have great teachers, a new computer lab., and the best football team.
(You can then write a body paragraph for each of those three reasons.)

Step 4. Now, come up with several sentences to support each one of your ideas. ex: in you first body paragraph write about what, why, etc. you think your teachers are so great (you don't have to tell the real truth about your teachers!) Since you're supposedly happy about the new computer lab. you might say that's your favorite class and teacher. That way you have a lead -in for your next parag.

Step 5. Explain why you like having a new computer room. Why do you think that technology matters for students? Is that your major area of study? Do you use it for researching school work? How could your school afford these new computers? . . .

Step 6. Now transition into your next parag., by referring slightly to your two previous paragraphs. ex: Although the academic programs at my school are important, it is also important to exercise the body as well as the mind. Our football team is fun not only because we win most of our games, but also because out coach makes sure to include everyone. or write what ever seems to fit in with the esay. . . . blah, blah. . . .

Conclusion: Before you write your conclusion, look back to the beginning of your essay and ask youself, "Did I respond to the essay question, or did I get off track, or lose focus?" If you got off track a bit, but still answered the question, now is the time to adjust your topic, thesis, sentence to match your essay. If you lost focus a lot, rewrite the parag. where you got off focus.

Once you're happy with the intro. and body parags. Write a conclusion that basically sums up your three main points. ex: I feel lucky to attend a school that has such an excellent combination of teachers, technology, and sports to offer its students.

Now proofread, proofread, proofread--and correct any grammar, spelling, punctuation errors, and especially look for the sort of errors you often make. Then write your final draft.

Most important of all: Answer the essay prompt fully; keep focused on its questions. Many essay points are lost because students get off the topic.

One last hint: Do not start off " I'm going to write about . . " Your topic sentences should make that clear!

Good luck.

Beth Said:

a little rusty on writing essays can someone give me an essay outline?5 paragrphs?

We Answered:

Intro:
-Hook
-Thesis Statement (A sentence(s) that tells the reader what the essay will discuss.)
Body Paragraph #1:
-Transition sentence
-Main idea
-Detail #1
-Detail #2
-Detail #3
-Repeat Main idea+details until you're done with paragraph
Body Paragraphs #2 and #3:
-Just do the same thing as BP #1
Conclusion
-Restate thesis (in different words)
-Quickly summarize main ideas
-Leave reader with an interesting thought (optional)

Allan Said:

Help With Ideas For An Essay: Writing About A Moment Of Enlightenment?

We Answered:

I had this same topic for my English class. I got a 98% for my final grade. The topic I used was a time that I went to Germany for the summer. An example that you could use for a different topic would be: A sport you played-explain how you used _teamwork_ to score a point, teamwork would be the topic that you were enlightened on. Another topic you could use would be a time when you learned a great lesson in your life. If you need anymore topic examples let me know and I will ask my teacher. I also wrote an outline that would be helpful to you in writing your essay. Here is the link to it:


http://knol.google.com/k/axel-lichtenber…

If you need any more help just let me know! Thanks, and I hope that I was of some help to you. Please comment and let me know!

Leonard Said:

What is the best tip for writing an essay?

We Answered:

When I write for my newspaper and for school essays I like to put in extra background information on the subjects people, places, etc, and my editor or my professors like it too. Like if you were writing a film review (My job) you would add more information on the director, producer, or screenplay writer, and definitely the actors. This gives the reader a familiar feel for whatever you are writing and that makes them pay attention.

Louise Said:

Writing an essay on Beowulf, not sure what format to use?

We Answered:

start off with the main points of beowulf (a synopsis) then proceed to explain what exactly an archetypal hero is and what isnt. Give your opinion. Then on the following paragraphs, give examples of why you think he was or wasnt. Include quotes as well. Don't forget to cite them from the book. The do a conclusion paragraph.

Floyd Said:

I am writing an essay about civil liberties. What points should I include?

We Answered:

The crucial question is how to balance civil liberties (ie the rights of the individual) with what is good for society as a whole. What is good for the individual, but not good for society, obviously needs to be questioned. With civil liberties comes civil responsibilities, the 2 go hand in hand

Nathan Said:

Where can I get help writing an essay?

We Answered:

If you have a teacher or a peer you feel comfortable with you can asked them to look over it. If you know of a writing center you could go to, they could help you out. Heck, you can even asked a librarian, they are amazing. I'm related to quite a few. You could also go to any college website and look for their English department and email an English teacher and asked them to look over it, or request their TA (teachers assistants) to look over it for you. Good luck, if anything I could do it, I graduated with an English degree.