Hi everyone, it’s Liam M. here, coming at you from the midst of papers, textbooks, and the ever-persistent coffee aroma that seems to have become my new cologne. Writing essays might be the bread and butter of our academic lives, but let’s be real—it doesn’t come easy to all of us. Today, I’m here to share some strategies that have transformed my approach to writing essays, making this daunting task a little more doable.
Understanding the Assignment: A True Eye-Opener
One of the biggest game-changers for me was starting with fully understanding the assignment requirements. If you’re anything like I used to be, you might skim through the prompt while thinking about your next Netflix binge. However, I learned the hard way when I once wrote a passionate argumentative essay, only to realize it was supposed to be expository. Now, I take the time to break down what each prompt is truly asking for, which leads to a clearer focus and a better structured essay.
Research: Digging Deeper than Google’s First Page
I’ll confess, there was a time when ‘research’ meant pulling up the first few search results on Google. Big mistake! To avoid presenting the same recycled viewpoints, I began diving deeper into academic journals and books, which are goldmines of unique insights and perspectives. This not only beefed up the quality of my content but also introduced me to ideas that challenged me to think and write critically.
Finding Credible Sources
Remember, not all sources are created equal. I rely on platforms like JSTOR, Google Scholar, and my university’s library database to find reputable sources. This has been crucial in elevating the credibility of my essays.
The Drafting Stage: Where the Magic Happens
Let’s talk about the drafting process. It used to be my least favorite part. I would stare at a blank page, typing, and deleting sentences, getting nowhere. What changed? I started outlining my thoughts before diving into writing. This outline doesn’t have to be fancy—a simple bullet list of points I want to cover acts as a roadmap through my thoughts. The actual writing became so much easier once I knew where I was heading with my arguments.
Revision: The Painful but Necessary Evil
Here’s the bitter truth: your first draft shouldn’t be your final draft. Early in my college days, I’d hammer out an essay the night before and submit it without so much as a second glance. The results? As expected, not too great. I’ve since learned to take the time to revise. This means looking out for clarity in my arguments, sprucing up my language, checking for grammar mistakes, and making sure my citations are in order. It might be tedious, but it significantly refines the essay.
Final Thoughts and a Small Confession
Understanding the assignment, committing to thorough research, drafting purposefully, and embracing the art of revision have profoundly changed my essay-writing game. It might seem like a lot, but with practice, it becomes a set of skills that will serve you beyond your college years.
And here’s a confession, guys—sometimes, I still binge-watch Netflix. But now, I make sure my essay draft is safe and sound before I hit play. Balancing act, remember?
Signed,
Liam M., Essay Enthusiast & Aspiring Coffee Connoisseur
