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Writing Tips - Know Howe for English! Seven Golden Rules

You know what you want to say, you just don't know how to say it?

Students often say essay writing is the hardest bit of their course –
the part they least enjoy. But follow just a few simple steps and you'll find writing much less difficult – and more enjoyable.

1. Before you start writing note 5-10 keywords and pick your “best” one. This one will start your discussion

2. As you write your introduction, try to build this “best” word into one sentence, which will tell the reader what you intend to do and why.

3. A good introduction often needs an at least one of the following: anecdote, description, question, striking statistic/fact:

Writing Tips - Know Howe for English!
Did you know 20% of Americans believe the sun revolves around the world?

4. Your body should begin the first idea in support of your thesis. Follow this with further sentences in support of your thesis. Give examples, comment on/ analyse/compare their significance! Unless you are weighing up pros and cons try to focus each paragraph on just ONE idea.

5. Your conclusion should reflect what has been stated and proved, without repeating it word for word. It should end with a statement or idea that leaves a strong impression and provokes further thought. This can be an outlook or message.

6. When you have finished the essay check that it is □ focused □ logical □ clear □ relevant □ well structured (with signposts!)

7. Finally, check for □ Spelling and punctuation! □ Style. Formal text does NOT use slang like "wanna" and "gonna". I almost tear my hair out when I see students write slang. You don't want me to go bald yet, do you?
Easy when you know how
(and Know Howe!):
Your Seven-Step Guide to Writing

Whether you write only a commentary, summary or full essay, you always need

An introduction - A body - A conclusion

You may be required to do at least one (and often all three!) of these:

- ANALYSE

What is the topic about?
What do you already know about the topic?
What might your theme, thesis or argument be?
How might you structure the topic?

- COMPARE

Where are the similarities? Or differences?

- COMMENT

What is the importance and meaning of the topic?
You can also express your opinion (critically, if you want).
















Writing Tips - Know Howe for English!
Even if your essay is not a pro/contra type it's good to demonstrate that you 've considered the alternatives. That shows you are capable of holding another view on the subject!




link Related Know Howe

For summary writing and pdf print out see attachments below.
Analysing a report