ThinkPlanWriteCheck your work

Consider not what you know but what your

readers need to know.

Analyze the question.

Stimulate your thoughts.

Select effective headings.

Headings are integral to organization.

Prepare a plan: a topic outline.

Each paragraph serves a purpose in its placement.

Figure out what form of organization will work best.

The first paragraph states the thesis (the answer to

the exam question) and relevant background

information that gives the purpose and scope of the

essay.

Individual paragraphs have a structure and contain

transitions. http://bcs.bedfordstmartins.com/seeingthepattern1e/default.asp

Use your own words.

Use your topic outline as a guide.

Write in one sitting.

Make sure your words express/record your

thoughts.

Revise ambiguous sentences.

Correct misplaced ideas.

Read the composition aloud (quietly).

Assess your answer.

Always work with an outline/brainstorm.

Discuss your written work with other students – note the mistakes that beginners make:

Lack of planning

Failure to answer the question

Lack of balance

Using long words when a short word serves the writer’s purpose better and using more words than needed to convey the precise meaning

Lack of care

Use the instructor’s criticism.

Learn from successful writers.

Excerpted from Students Must Write: A Guide to Better Writing in Coursework and Examinations by Robert Barrass