 |
|
 |
Intro: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| If you need to include a bibliography or works cited page, consult a book that explains the proper way to do so. Good writers rarely finish an essay in just one draft. Usually it takes at least two or three drafts, if not more, to bring an essay from start to finish. |
|
After you've completed a draft of your essay, show it to a classmate, friend, or teacher. A peer editor can be anybody willing to read your essay and offer feedback. To make sure you get the most constructive feedback, give him or her a list of questions, such as: Are there any spelling or grammatical mistakes or typos? Have the person circle these proofreading issues. Does the introduction grab the reader's attention? If not, perhaps the peer editor can offer a suggestion, or say why it doesn't work. Is the thesis statement clear? Ask the peer editor to underline what he or she believes to be the thesis statement. If he or she can't, identify the thesis and ask for advice on how to make it sharper. Is there sufficient information to back up the thesis statement? Ask for feedback about what works and what doesn't. Are there any points that need more explanation? Have you answered all the questions or concerns put forth in your introduction? Does the conclusion wrap up the essay? Does it summarize your main points without repeating them? Does it offer a final view of the topic that couldn't have been reached without the supporting evidence? Are there any general comments to make the paper better? The peer editor should feel free to elaborate, and you should take what is said as constructive criticism. Knowing the basics of writing a formal essay takes you one step ahead of the class. Keep in mind, though, that the greatest teacher is the writing process itself. The more essays you write, the better you'll get at it. -end-   All steps at once (printable version) |
|
Enlist a peer editor
#0694:
Write a Speech
#0603:
Write a Business Plan
#0623:
Search the Internet Effectively