process to write an essay

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• What Is an Essay? Structure, Parts, and Types

How to Write an Essay in 8 Simple Steps (Examples Included)

• 8 Types of Essays | Quick Summary with Examples
• Expository Essays | Step-by-Step Manual with Examples
• Narrative Essay | Step-by-Step Guide with Examples
• How to Write an Argumentative Essay (Examples Included)
• Guide to a Perfect Descriptive Essay [Examples & Outline Included]
• How to Start an Essay: 4 Introduction Paragraph Examples
• How to Write a Conclusion for an Essay (Examples Included!)
• How to Write an Impactful Personal Statement (Examples Included)
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• 100 Best College Essay Topics & How to Pick the Perfect One!
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• Structure of an Essay: 5 Tips to Write an Outstanding Essay

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• Tags: Academic Writing , Essay , Essay Writing

Knowing how to write an essay can help you out significantly in both, your academic and professional life. An essay is a highly versatile nonfiction piece of writing that not only tests your knowledge of a topic but also your literary and argumentative skills.     

Each essay requires the same basic process of planning, writing, and editing. Naturally, we’ve used these stages to group our steps on how to write an essay. So w ithout further ado, let’s get into it! Here are the eight steps to write an essay:

Stage 1: Planning

1. Pick an appropriate research topic

In certain cases, your teacher or professor may assign you a topic. However, in many cases, students have the freedom to select a topic of their choice. Make sure you choose a topic that you’re well versed in and have significant knowledge of. 

Having prior knowledge of the topic will help you determine the subsequent steps to write an essay. It will also make your research process considerably easier.

2. Form an appropriate thesis statement

A thesis statement is the central idea or premise your essay is based on. It is usually a sentence or two long and is included in the introduction of the essay. The scope of your thesis statement depends on the type of your essay and its length.

For instance, the scope of the thesis statement for a 500–1000 word school essay will be narrower than a 1000–5000 word college essay. A rule of thumb is that your essay topic should be broad enough to gather enough information, but narrow enough to address specific points and not be vague. Here’s an example: 

The invention of the airplane by the Wright Brothers in 1903 revolutionized transportation and paved the way for modern aviation. It represents a monumental achievement in human history that forever changed the course of human civilization.

3. Create an essay outline

Creating a well-organized essay outline not only gives structure and flow to your essay but also makes it more impactful and easy to understand. The idea is to collect the main points of information that support or elaborate on your thesis statement. You can also include references or examples under these main points. 

For example, if your thesis statement revolves around the invention of the airplane, your main points will include travel before the invention of the airplane, how it was invented, and its effects on modern-day travel. Take a look:

The Wright Brothers’ invention had a massive impact on modern-day travel. The subsequent growth of the aviation industry led to increased accessibility of air travel to the general public.

Stage 2: Writing

4. Write a comprehensive introduction

After creating the basic outline, it is important to know how to write an essay. Begin your essay by introducing your voice and point of view to the reader. An introduction is usually a paragraph or two long and consists of three main parts:

• Background information
• Thesis statement

Let’s better understand this with the help of an example:

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane in 1903 revolutionized the way humans travel and explore the world. Prior to this invention, transportation relied on trains, boats, and cars, which limited the distance and speed of travel. However, the airplane made air travel a reality, allowing people to reach far-off destinations in mere hours. This breakthrough paved the way for modern-day air travel, transforming the world into a smaller, more connected place. In this essay, we will explore the impact of the Wright Brothers’ invention on modern-day travel, including the growth of the aviation industry, increased accessibility of air travel to the general public, and the economic and cultural benefits of air travel.

Let’s understand how to construct each of these sections in more detail.

A. Construct an attractive hook

The opening sentence of an essay, also known as the hook, should include a powerful or startling statement that captures the reader’s attention. Depending on the type of your essay, it can be an interesting fact, a surprising statistic, or an engaging anecdote. 

B. Provide relevant background information

While writing the introduction, it’s important to provide context or background information before including the thesis statement. The background information may include the time before a groundbreaking invention, the pros and cons of a significant discovery, or the short- and long-term effects of an event.

C. Edit the thesis statement

If you’ve constructed your thesis statement during the outlining stage, it’s time to edit it based on the background information you’ve provided. Observe the slight changes we’ve made to the scope of the thesis statement in the example above. This accommodates the bits of information we’ve provided in the background history.

5. Form relevant body paragraphs

Body paragraphs play a crucial role in supporting and expanding the central argument presented in the thesis statement. The number of body paragraphs depends on the type of essay as well as the scope of the thesis statement.

Most school-level essays contain three body paragraphs while college-level essays can vary in length depending on the assignment.

A well-crafted body paragraph consists of the following parts:

• A topic sentence
• Supporting information
• An analysis of the information
• A smooth transition to the next paragraph

Let’s understand this with the help of an example. 

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane revolutionized air travel. They achieved the first-ever successful powered flight with the Wright Flyer in 1903, after years of conducting experiments and studying flight principles. Despite their first flight lasting only 12 seconds, it was a significant milestone that paved the way for modern aviation. The Wright Brothers’ success can be attributed to their systematic approach to problem-solving, which included numerous experiments with gliders, the development of a wind tunnel to test their designs, and meticulous analysis and recording of their results. Their dedication and ingenuity forever changed the way we travel, making modern aviation possible.

Here’s a detailed overview of how to construct each of these sections.

A. Construct appropriate topic sentences

A topic sentence is the title of the body paragraph that elaborates on the thesis statement. It is the main idea on which the body paragraph is developed. Ensure that each topic sentence is relevant to the thesis statement and makes the essay flow seamlessly. 

The order of topic sentences is key in creating an impactful essay. This order varies depending on the type of essay you choose to write. These sentences may be arranged chronologically, in the order of importance, or in a cause-and-effect format.

B. Provide supporting information

It is necessary to provide relevant supporting information and evidence to validate your topic statement. This may include examples, relevant statistics, history, or even personal anecdotes.

You should also remember to cite your sources wherever you use them to substantiate your arguments. Always give researchers and authors credit for their work!

C. Analyze the supporting information

After presenting the appropriate evidence, the next step is to conduct an in-depth analysis. Establish connections and provide additional details to strengthen the link between your topic sentence and the supporting information. 

Depending on the type of essay, this step may also involve sharing your subjective opinions and key takeaways.

D. Create a smooth transition

In case you plan to create multiple body paragraphs, it is crucial to create a seamless transition between them. Transitional statements not only make the essay less jarring to read but also guide the reader in the right direction.

However, these statements need not be too lengthy and complicated. Use words such as “however”, “in addition to”, and “therefore” to convey transitions.

6. Construct an impactful conclusion

An impactful conclusion creates a lasting impression on the mind of the reader. Although it varies in length depending on the specific essay, the conclusion is typically a paragraph long.

It consists of

• A restated thesis statement
• Summary of the main points
• The broader implications of the thesis statement

Here’s an example of a well-structured conclusion:

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane forever changed history by paving the way for modern aviation and countless aerospace advancements. Their persistence, innovation, and dedication to problem-solving led to the first successful powered flight in 1903, sparking a revolution in transportation that transformed the world. Today, air travel remains an integral part of our globalized society, highlighting the undeniable impact of the Wright Brothers’ contribution to human civilization.  

Let’s take a closer look at how to construct each of these sections.

A. Restate the thesis statement

Your conclusion should call back to your original argument or thesis statement.

However, this does not mean repeating the thesis statement as is. The essence of your argument should remain the same, but it should also be modified and evolved as per the information presented in your essay.

B. Summarize important points

A powerful conclusion not only lingers in the reader’s mind but also provokes thought. You can create a strong impression on the reader by highlighting the most impactful points of your essay.

C. State the greater implications

End your essay with the most powerful and impactful part: the larger perspective. This can‌ include a question you’d like to leave the reader with, the broader implications and impact of your thesis statement, or the long-term, lingering effects of your experience. 

Make sure to include no new evidence or arguments, or to undermine your findings in any way. 

Stage 3: Editing

7. Review your essay

Knowing how to write an essay is just one part of essay writing. Properly reviewing and editing your essay is just as important. Make sure to spend enough time going over your essay and adding any bits of information that you’ve missed. 

This is also a good time to make minor structural changes in your essay.

8. Thoroughly proofread your essay

After making the necessary structural changes, recheck your essay word by word. It is important to not only correct major grammatical and spelling errors but also minor errors regarding the phrasing or tone of voice.

You can either choose to do this by yourself, ask a friend for assistance, or hire an essay proofreading service to go over your writing. To construct a fool-proof, error-free essay, it is helpful to have a trained pair of eyes go over it. Professional proofreaders can spot errors that are not visible to most people and set the right tone for your essay. 

Now that you know the basics of how to write an essay, it’s time to learn about the specifics. Feel free to dig into the articles below and keep reading!

• How to Write an Essay Header in 4 Steps
• How to Write an Essay Outline
• What is an Expository Essay?
• How to Start an Essay

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How to Write an Essay

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Essay Writing Fundamentals

How to prepare to write an essay, how to edit an essay, how to share and publish your essays, how to get essay writing help, how to find essay writing inspiration, resources for teaching essay writing.

Essays, short prose compositions on a particular theme or topic, are the bread and butter of academic life. You write them in class, for homework, and on standardized tests to show what you know. Unlike other kinds of academic writing (like the research paper) and creative writing (like short stories and poems), essays allow you to develop your original thoughts on a prompt or question. Essays come in many varieties: they can be expository (fleshing out an idea or claim), descriptive, (explaining a person, place, or thing), narrative (relating a personal experience), or persuasive (attempting to win over a reader). This guide is a collection of dozens of links about academic essay writing that we have researched, categorized, and annotated in order to help you improve your essay writing. 

Essays are different from other forms of writing; in turn, there are different kinds of essays. This section contains general resources for getting to know the essay and its variants. These resources introduce and define the essay as a genre, and will teach you what to expect from essay-based assessments.

Purdue OWL Online Writing Lab

One of the most trusted academic writing sites, Purdue OWL provides a concise introduction to the four most common types of academic essays.

"The Essay: History and Definition" (ThoughtCo)

This snappy article from ThoughtCo talks about the origins of the essay and different kinds of essays you might be asked to write. 

"What Is An Essay?" Video Lecture (Coursera)

The University of California at Irvine's free video lecture, available on Coursera, tells  you everything you need to know about the essay.

Wikipedia Article on the "Essay"

Wikipedia's article on the essay is comprehensive, providing both English-language and global perspectives on the essay form. Learn about the essay's history, forms, and styles.

"Understanding College and Academic Writing" (Aims Online Writing Lab)

This list of common academic writing assignments (including types of essay prompts) will help you know what to expect from essay-based assessments.

Before you start writing your essay, you need to figure out who you're writing for (audience), what you're writing about (topic/theme), and what you're going to say (argument and thesis). This section contains links to handouts, chapters, videos and more to help you prepare to write an essay.

How to Identify Your Audience

"Audience" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

This handout provides questions you can ask yourself to determine the audience for an academic writing assignment. It also suggests strategies for fitting your paper to your intended audience.

"Purpose, Audience, Tone, and Content" (Univ. of Minnesota Libraries)

This extensive book chapter from Writing for Success , available online through Minnesota Libraries Publishing, is followed by exercises to try out your new pre-writing skills.

"Determining Audience" (Aims Online Writing Lab)

This guide from a community college's writing center shows you how to know your audience, and how to incorporate that knowledge in your thesis statement.

"Know Your Audience" ( Paper Rater Blog)

This short blog post uses examples to show how implied audiences for essays differ. It reminds you to think of your instructor as an observer, who will know only the information you pass along.

How to Choose a Theme or Topic

"Research Tutorial: Developing Your Topic" (YouTube)

Take a look at this short video tutorial from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to understand the basics of developing a writing topic.

"How to Choose a Paper Topic" (WikiHow)

This simple, step-by-step guide (with pictures!) walks you through choosing a paper topic. It starts with a detailed description of brainstorming and ends with strategies to refine your broad topic.

"How to Read an Assignment: Moving From Assignment to Topic" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Did your teacher give you a prompt or other instructions? This guide helps you understand the relationship between an essay assignment and your essay's topic.

"Guidelines for Choosing a Topic" (CliffsNotes)

This study guide from CliffsNotes both discusses how to choose a topic and makes a useful distinction between "topic" and "thesis."

How to Come Up with an Argument

"Argument" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

Not sure what "argument" means in the context of academic writing? This page from the University of North Carolina is a good place to start.

"The Essay Guide: Finding an Argument" (Study Hub)

This handout explains why it's important to have an argument when beginning your essay, and provides tools to help you choose a viable argument.

"Writing a Thesis and Making an Argument" (University of Iowa)

This page from the University of Iowa's Writing Center contains exercises through which you can develop and refine your argument and thesis statement.

"Developing a Thesis" (Harvard College Writing Center)

This page from Harvard's Writing Center collates some helpful dos and don'ts of argumentative writing, from steps in constructing a thesis to avoiding vague and confrontational thesis statements.

"Suggestions for Developing Argumentative Essays" (Berkeley Student Learning Center)

This page offers concrete suggestions for each stage of the essay writing process, from topic selection to drafting and editing. 

How to Outline your Essay

"Outlines" (Univ. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill via YouTube)

This short video tutorial from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill shows how to group your ideas into paragraphs or sections to begin the outlining process.

"Essay Outline" (Univ. of Washington Tacoma)

This two-page handout by a university professor simply defines the parts of an essay and then organizes them into an example outline.

"Types of Outlines and Samples" (Purdue OWL Online Writing Lab)

Purdue OWL gives examples of diverse outline strategies on this page, including the alphanumeric, full sentence, and decimal styles. 

"Outlining" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Once you have an argument, according to this handout, there are only three steps in the outline process: generalizing, ordering, and putting it all together. Then you're ready to write!

"Writing Essays" (Plymouth Univ.)

This packet, part of Plymouth University's Learning Development series, contains descriptions and diagrams relating to the outlining process.

"How to Write A Good Argumentative Essay: Logical Structure" (Criticalthinkingtutorials.com via YouTube)

This longer video tutorial gives an overview of how to structure your essay in order to support your argument or thesis. It is part of a longer course on academic writing hosted on Udemy.

Now that you've chosen and refined your topic and created an outline, use these resources to complete the writing process. Most essays contain introductions (which articulate your thesis statement), body paragraphs, and conclusions. Transitions facilitate the flow from one paragraph to the next so that support for your thesis builds throughout the essay. Sources and citations show where you got the evidence to support your thesis, which ensures that you avoid plagiarism. 

How to Write an Introduction

"Introductions" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

This page identifies the role of the introduction in any successful paper, suggests strategies for writing introductions, and warns against less effective introductions.

"How to Write A Good Introduction" (Michigan State Writing Center)

Beginning with the most common missteps in writing introductions, this guide condenses the essentials of introduction composition into seven points.

"The Introductory Paragraph" (ThoughtCo)

This blog post from academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming focuses on ways to grab your reader's attention at the beginning of your essay.

"Introductions and Conclusions" (Univ. of Toronto)

This guide from the University of Toronto gives advice that applies to writing both introductions and conclusions, including dos and don'ts.

"How to Write Better Essays: No One Does Introductions Properly" ( The Guardian )

This news article interviews UK professors on student essay writing; they point to introductions as the area that needs the most improvement.

How to Write a Thesis Statement

"Writing an Effective Thesis Statement" (YouTube)

This short, simple video tutorial from a college composition instructor at Tulsa Community College explains what a thesis statement is and what it does. 

"Thesis Statement: Four Steps to a Great Essay" (YouTube)

This fantastic tutorial walks you through drafting a thesis, using an essay prompt on Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter as an example.

"How to Write a Thesis Statement" (WikiHow)

This step-by-step guide (with pictures!) walks you through coming up with, writing, and editing a thesis statement. It invites you think of your statement as a "working thesis" that can change.

"How to Write a Thesis Statement" (Univ. of Indiana Bloomington)

Ask yourself the questions on this page, part of Indiana Bloomington's Writing Tutorial Services, when you're writing and refining your thesis statement.

"Writing Tips: Thesis Statements" (Univ. of Illinois Center for Writing Studies)

This page gives plentiful examples of good to great thesis statements, and offers questions to ask yourself when formulating a thesis statement.

How to Write Body Paragraphs

"Body Paragraph" (Brightstorm)

This module of a free online course introduces you to the components of a body paragraph. These include the topic sentence, information, evidence, and analysis.

"Strong Body Paragraphs" (Washington Univ.)

This handout from Washington's Writing and Research Center offers in-depth descriptions of the parts of a successful body paragraph.

"Guide to Paragraph Structure" (Deakin Univ.)

This handout is notable for color-coding example body paragraphs to help you identify the functions various sentences perform.

"Writing Body Paragraphs" (Univ. of Minnesota Libraries)

The exercises in this section of Writing for Success  will help you practice writing good body paragraphs. It includes guidance on selecting primary support for your thesis.

"The Writing Process—Body Paragraphs" (Aims Online Writing Lab)

The information and exercises on this page will familiarize you with outlining and writing body paragraphs, and includes links to more information on topic sentences and transitions.

"The Five-Paragraph Essay" (ThoughtCo)

This blog post discusses body paragraphs in the context of one of the most common academic essay types in secondary schools.

How to Use Transitions

"Transitions" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

This page from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill explains what a transition is, and how to know if you need to improve your transitions.

"Using Transitions Effectively" (Washington Univ.)

This handout defines transitions, offers tips for using them, and contains a useful list of common transitional words and phrases grouped by function.

"Transitions" (Aims Online Writing Lab)

This page compares paragraphs without transitions to paragraphs with transitions, and in doing so shows how important these connective words and phrases are.

"Transitions in Academic Essays" (Scribbr)

This page lists four techniques that will help you make sure your reader follows your train of thought, including grouping similar information and using transition words.

"Transitions" (El Paso Community College)

This handout shows example transitions within paragraphs for context, and explains how transitions improve your essay's flow and voice.

"Make Your Paragraphs Flow to Improve Writing" (ThoughtCo)

This blog post, another from academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming, talks about transitions and other strategies to improve your essay's overall flow.

"Transition Words" (smartwords.org)

This handy word bank will help you find transition words when you're feeling stuck. It's grouped by the transition's function, whether that is to show agreement, opposition, condition, or consequence.

How to Write a Conclusion

"Parts of An Essay: Conclusions" (Brightstorm)

This module of a free online course explains how to conclude an academic essay. It suggests thinking about the "3Rs": return to hook, restate your thesis, and relate to the reader.

"Essay Conclusions" (Univ. of Maryland University College)

This overview of the academic essay conclusion contains helpful examples and links to further resources for writing good conclusions.

"How to End An Essay" (WikiHow)

This step-by-step guide (with pictures!) by an English Ph.D. walks you through writing a conclusion, from brainstorming to ending with a flourish.

"Ending the Essay: Conclusions" (Harvard College Writing Center)

This page collates useful strategies for writing an effective conclusion, and reminds you to "close the discussion without closing it off" to further conversation.

How to Include Sources and Citations

"Research and Citation Resources" (Purdue OWL Online Writing Lab)

Purdue OWL streamlines information about the three most common referencing styles (MLA, Chicago, and APA) and provides examples of how to cite different resources in each system.

EasyBib: Free Bibliography Generator

This online tool allows you to input information about your source and automatically generate citations in any style. Be sure to select your resource type before clicking the "cite it" button.

CitationMachine

Like EasyBib, this online tool allows you to input information about your source and automatically generate citations in any style. 

Modern Language Association Handbook (MLA)

Here, you'll find the definitive and up-to-date record of MLA referencing rules. Order through the link above, or check to see if your library has a copy.

Chicago Manual of Style

Here, you'll find the definitive and up-to-date record of Chicago referencing rules. You can take a look at the table of contents, then choose to subscribe or start a free trial.

How to Avoid Plagiarism

"What is Plagiarism?" (plagiarism.org)

This nonprofit website contains numerous resources for identifying and avoiding plagiarism, and reminds you that even common activities like copying images from another website to your own site may constitute plagiarism.

"Plagiarism" (University of Oxford)

This interactive page from the University of Oxford helps you check for plagiarism in your work, making it clear how to avoid citing another person's work without full acknowledgement.

"Avoiding Plagiarism" (MIT Comparative Media Studies)

This quick guide explains what plagiarism is, what its consequences are, and how to avoid it. It starts by defining three words—quotation, paraphrase, and summary—that all constitute citation.

"Harvard Guide to Using Sources" (Harvard Extension School)

This comprehensive website from Harvard brings together articles, videos, and handouts about referencing, citation, and plagiarism. 

Grammarly contains tons of helpful grammar and writing resources, including a free tool to automatically scan your essay to check for close affinities to published work. 

Noplag is another popular online tool that automatically scans your essay to check for signs of plagiarism. Simply copy and paste your essay into the box and click "start checking."

Once you've written your essay, you'll want to edit (improve content), proofread (check for spelling and grammar mistakes), and finalize your work until you're ready to hand it in. This section brings together tips and resources for navigating the editing process. 

"Writing a First Draft" (Academic Help)

This is an introduction to the drafting process from the site Academic Help, with tips for getting your ideas on paper before editing begins.

"Editing and Proofreading" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

This page provides general strategies for revising your writing. They've intentionally left seven errors in the handout, to give you practice in spotting them.

"How to Proofread Effectively" (ThoughtCo)

This article from ThoughtCo, along with those linked at the bottom, help describe common mistakes to check for when proofreading.

"7 Simple Edits That Make Your Writing 100% More Powerful" (SmartBlogger)

This blog post emphasizes the importance of powerful, concise language, and reminds you that even your personal writing heroes create clunky first drafts.

"Editing Tips for Effective Writing" (Univ. of Pennsylvania)

On this page from Penn's International Relations department, you'll find tips for effective prose, errors to watch out for, and reminders about formatting.

"Editing the Essay" (Harvard College Writing Center)

This article, the first of two parts, gives you applicable strategies for the editing process. It suggests reading your essay aloud, removing any jargon, and being unafraid to remove even "dazzling" sentences that don't belong.

"Guide to Editing and Proofreading" (Oxford Learning Institute)

This handout from Oxford covers the basics of editing and proofreading, and reminds you that neither task should be rushed. 

In addition to plagiarism-checkers, Grammarly has a plug-in for your web browser that checks your writing for common mistakes.

After you've prepared, written, and edited your essay, you might want to share it outside the classroom. This section alerts you to print and web opportunities to share your essays with the wider world, from online writing communities and blogs to published journals geared toward young writers.

Sharing Your Essays Online

Go Teen Writers

Go Teen Writers is an online community for writers aged 13 - 19. It was founded by Stephanie Morrill, an author of contemporary young adult novels. 

Tumblr is a blogging website where you can share your writing and interact with other writers online. It's easy to add photos, links, audio, and video components.

Writersky provides an online platform for publishing and reading other youth writers' work. Its current content is mostly devoted to fiction.

Publishing Your Essays Online

This teen literary journal publishes in print, on the web, and (more frequently), on a blog. It is committed to ensuring that "teens see their authentic experience reflected on its pages."

The Matador Review

This youth writing platform celebrates "alternative," unconventional writing. The link above will take you directly to the site's "submissions" page.

Teen Ink has a website, monthly newsprint magazine, and quarterly poetry magazine promoting the work of young writers.

The largest online reading platform, Wattpad enables you to publish your work and read others' work. Its inline commenting feature allows you to share thoughts as you read along.

Publishing Your Essays in Print

Canvas Teen Literary Journal

This quarterly literary magazine is published for young writers by young writers. They accept many kinds of writing, including essays.

The Claremont Review

This biannual international magazine, first published in 1992, publishes poetry, essays, and short stories from writers aged 13 - 19.

Skipping Stones

This young writers magazine, founded in 1988, celebrates themes relating to ecological and cultural diversity. It publishes poems, photos, articles, and stories.

The Telling Room

This nonprofit writing center based in Maine publishes children's work on their website and in book form. The link above directs you to the site's submissions page.

Essay Contests

Scholastic Arts and Writing Awards

This prestigious international writing contest for students in grades 7 - 12 has been committed to "supporting the future of creativity since 1923."

Society of Professional Journalists High School Essay Contest

An annual essay contest on the theme of journalism and media, the Society of Professional Journalists High School Essay Contest awards scholarships up to $1,000.

National YoungArts Foundation

Here, you'll find information on a government-sponsored writing competition for writers aged 15 - 18. The foundation welcomes submissions of creative nonfiction, novels, scripts, poetry, short story and spoken word.

Signet Classics Student Scholarship Essay Contest

With prompts on a different literary work each year, this competition from Signet Classics awards college scholarships up to $1,000.

"The Ultimate Guide to High School Essay Contests" (CollegeVine)

See this handy guide from CollegeVine for a list of more competitions you can enter with your academic essay, from the National Council of Teachers of English Achievement Awards to the National High School Essay Contest by the U.S. Institute of Peace.

Whether you're struggling to write academic essays or you think you're a pro, there are workshops and online tools that can help you become an even better writer. Even the most seasoned writers encounter writer's block, so be proactive and look through our curated list of resources to combat this common frustration.

Online Essay-writing Classes and Workshops

"Getting Started with Essay Writing" (Coursera)

Coursera offers lots of free, high-quality online classes taught by college professors. Here's one example, taught by instructors from the University of California Irvine.

"Writing and English" (Brightstorm)

Brightstorm's free video lectures are easy to navigate by topic. This unit on the parts of an essay features content on the essay hook, thesis, supporting evidence, and more.

"How to Write an Essay" (EdX)

EdX is another open online university course website with several two- to five-week courses on the essay. This one is geared toward English language learners.

Writer's Digest University

This renowned writers' website offers online workshops and interactive tutorials. The courses offered cover everything from how to get started through how to get published.

Writing.com

Signing up for this online writer's community gives you access to helpful resources as well as an international community of writers.

How to Overcome Writer's Block

"Symptoms and Cures for Writer's Block" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue OWL offers a list of signs you might have writer's block, along with ways to overcome it. Consider trying out some "invention strategies" or ways to curb writing anxiety.

"Overcoming Writer's Block: Three Tips" ( The Guardian )

These tips, geared toward academic writing specifically, are practical and effective. The authors advocate setting realistic goals, creating dedicated writing time, and participating in social writing.

"Writing Tips: Strategies for Overcoming Writer's Block" (Univ. of Illinois)

This page from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Center for Writing Studies acquaints you with strategies that do and do not work to overcome writer's block.

"Writer's Block" (Univ. of Toronto)

Ask yourself the questions on this page; if the answer is "yes," try out some of the article's strategies. Each question is accompanied by at least two possible solutions.

If you have essays to write but are short on ideas, this section's links to prompts, example student essays, and celebrated essays by professional writers might help. You'll find writing prompts from a variety of sources, student essays to inspire you, and a number of essay writing collections.

Essay Writing Prompts

"50 Argumentative Essay Topics" (ThoughtCo)

Take a look at this list and the others ThoughtCo has curated for different kinds of essays. As the author notes, "a number of these topics are controversial and that's the point."

"401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing" ( New York Times )

This list (and the linked lists to persuasive and narrative writing prompts), besides being impressive in length, is put together by actual high school English teachers.

"SAT Sample Essay Prompts" (College Board)

If you're a student in the U.S., your classroom essay prompts are likely modeled on the prompts in U.S. college entrance exams. Take a look at these official examples from the SAT.

"Popular College Application Essay Topics" (Princeton Review)

This page from the Princeton Review dissects recent Common Application essay topics and discusses strategies for answering them.

Example Student Essays

"501 Writing Prompts" (DePaul Univ.)

This nearly 200-page packet, compiled by the LearningExpress Skill Builder in Focus Writing Team, is stuffed with writing prompts, example essays, and commentary.

"Topics in English" (Kibin)

Kibin is a for-pay essay help website, but its example essays (organized by topic) are available for free. You'll find essays on everything from  A Christmas Carol  to perseverance.

"Student Writing Models" (Thoughtful Learning)

Thoughtful Learning, a website that offers a variety of teaching materials, provides sample student essays on various topics and organizes them by grade level.

"Five-Paragraph Essay" (ThoughtCo)

In this blog post by a former professor of English and rhetoric, ThoughtCo brings together examples of five-paragraph essays and commentary on the form.

The Best Essay Writing Collections

The Best American Essays of the Century by Joyce Carol Oates (Amazon)

This collection of American essays spanning the twentieth century was compiled by award winning author and Princeton professor Joyce Carol Oates.

The Best American Essays 2017 by Leslie Jamison (Amazon)

Leslie Jamison, the celebrated author of essay collection  The Empathy Exams , collects recent, high-profile essays into a single volume.

The Art of the Personal Essay by Phillip Lopate (Amazon)

Documentary writer Phillip Lopate curates this historical overview of the personal essay's development, from the classical era to the present.

The White Album by Joan Didion (Amazon)

This seminal essay collection was authored by one of the most acclaimed personal essayists of all time, American journalist Joan Didion.

Consider the Lobster by David Foster Wallace (Amazon)

Read this famous essay collection by David Foster Wallace, who is known for his experimentation with the essay form. He pushed the boundaries of personal essay, reportage, and political polemic.

"50 Successful Harvard Application Essays" (Staff of the The Harvard Crimson )

If you're looking for examples of exceptional college application essays, this volume from Harvard's daily student newspaper is one of the best collections on the market.

Are you an instructor looking for the best resources for teaching essay writing? This section contains resources for developing in-class activities and student homework assignments. You'll find content from both well-known university writing centers and online writing labs.

Essay Writing Classroom Activities for Students

"In-class Writing Exercises" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

This page lists exercises related to brainstorming, organizing, drafting, and revising. It also contains suggestions for how to implement the suggested exercises.

"Teaching with Writing" (Univ. of Minnesota Center for Writing)

Instructions and encouragement for using "freewriting," one-minute papers, logbooks, and other write-to-learn activities in the classroom can be found here.

"Writing Worksheets" (Berkeley Student Learning Center)

Berkeley offers this bank of writing worksheets to use in class. They are nested under headings for "Prewriting," "Revision," "Research Papers" and more.

"Using Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism" (DePaul University)

Use these activities and worksheets from DePaul's Teaching Commons when instructing students on proper academic citation practices.

Essay Writing Homework Activities for Students

"Grammar and Punctuation Exercises" (Aims Online Writing Lab)

These five interactive online activities allow students to practice editing and proofreading. They'll hone their skills in correcting comma splices and run-ons, identifying fragments, using correct pronoun agreement, and comma usage.

"Student Interactives" (Read Write Think)

Read Write Think hosts interactive tools, games, and videos for developing writing skills. They can practice organizing and summarizing, writing poetry, and developing lines of inquiry and analysis.

This free website offers writing and grammar activities for all grade levels. The lessons are designed to be used both for large classes and smaller groups.

"Writing Activities and Lessons for Every Grade" (Education World)

Education World's page on writing activities and lessons links you to more free, online resources for learning how to "W.R.I.T.E.": write, revise, inform, think, and edit.

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How to Write an Essay — A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

Writing an essay can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to academic writing. However, with the right approach and a clear understanding of the essay structure, you can tackle this challenge seamlessly. In this article, we will guide you through the process of essay writing in a detailed manner. By following these guidelines, you will be able to gather your materials, develop a strong argument, and craft a well-structured essay that will leave your readers hooked.

Getting Started — Gather Your Materials and Research

Before you start writing your essay, it is important to gather all the necessary materials and conduct thorough research on your topic. This includes finding relevant books, articles, and online sources that will provide you with the information needed to support your argument. The more well-informed you are on the subject, the stronger your essay will be.

When gathering your materials, it is essential to consider the credibility and reliability of your sources. Look for reputable publications, academic journals, bibliography databases , and expert opinions to ensure that the information you include in your essay is accurate and trustworthy. Remember, the quality of your research will greatly influence the overall quality of your essay.

Additionally, conducting thorough research will not only provide you with the necessary information but also help you gain a deeper understanding of your topic. As you delve into different sources, you may come across various perspectives and arguments that will enrich your own analysis. This exploration will allow you to develop a well-rounded and comprehensive essay that considers different viewpoints.

While conducting your research, it is crucial to take organized and detailed notes. Jot down key points, quotes, and any thoughts or ideas that come to mind. This will not only help you remember important information but also assist you in organizing your thoughts and structuring your essay effectively. By keeping track of your sources, you will also avoid any issues with plagiarism and ensure that you can properly cite your references.

Furthermore, the research process provides an opportunity for you to engage critically with the topic. As you read and analyze different sources, you may encounter conflicting information or gaps in the existing literature. This presents a chance for you to contribute to the academic discourse by addressing these discrepancies or proposing new insights. Your essay can become a platform for advancing knowledge and sparking further discussions.

Lastly, remember that research is an ongoing process. Even after you have gathered your initial materials, it is important to remain open to new information and perspectives. Embrace this continuous learning and be willing to revise and refine your arguments as you progress.

Create an Outline

Once you have gathered your research materials, it is time to create an outline for your essay. An outline will serve as a roadmap for your writing, helping you organize your thoughts and ensure that your essay flows logically.  Start by identifying the main points you want to cover in your essay. Then, arrange these points in a logical order, considering the overall structure of your essay.

When creating an outline, it is important to consider the overall structure of your essay. Think about how you want to introduce your topic and engage your readers. Consider what information is essential to include in each section of your essay and how you want to transition between different ideas.

Understand the Essay Structure

Before diving into the essay writing process, it is important to understand the basic structure of an essay. Most essays follow a standard format, consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should grab the reader's attention and provide a clear thesis statement that reflects your main argument. The body paragraphs should expand on your argument, providing evidence and examples to support your claims. Finally, the conclusion should summarize your essay and restate your main points.

Write the Introduction

The introduction is the first impression your essay makes on the reader, so it is essential to make it engaging and captivating. Start with a hook that grabs the reader's attention and introduces the topic. Then, provide some background information and context to set the stage for your argument. Finally, end your introduction with a clear and concise thesis statement that reflects the main point you will be discussing throughout your essay.

Develop Your Argument

Once you have established your thesis statement, it is time to develop your argument in the body paragraphs of your essay. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific point that supports your thesis. Commence with each paragraph by presenting a topic sentence that serves to introduce the main idea to the reader. Subsequently, provide evidence and illustrations to support your argument. Be sure to use clear and concise language and vary your sentence structure to keep the reader engaged.

Use Evidence to Support Your Argument

To strengthen your argument and validate your claims, it is crucial to use evidence and examples throughout your essay. This can include research findings, statistics, quotes from authoritative sources, or real-life examples. Make sure to cite your sources properly and provide enough context for the reader to understand the significance of the evidence you are presenting.

Write the Body Paragraphs

With your argument and evidence in place, it is time to write the body paragraphs of your essay. Each body paragraph should focus on a separate point that contributes to your overall argument. Start with a topic that introduces the main concept of the paragraph. Then, provide supporting details and evidence to expand on your point. Use transition words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow between the paragraphs.

Craft the Conclusion

The conclusion is the final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. In this section, you should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Do not introduce new information or arguments in the conclusion section. Instead, focus on wrapping up your essay and leaving the reader with a thought-provoking closing statement. Make sure to leave a lasting impact and reinforce the significance of your argument.

Edit and Proofread

Once you have finished writing your essay, it is crucial to edit and proofread it thoroughly. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and awkward phrasing. Ensure that your sentences flow smoothly and that your ideas are clearly expressed. Trim any unnecessary information and make sure that your essay is concise and focused. Consider seeking feedback from your peer or teacher to get a fresh perspective on your work.

Final Touches and Submission

Before submitting your essay, take some time to add the final touches. This includes formatting your essay according to the guidelines provided by your instructor or educational institution. Make sure that your essay is properly formatted, with consistent font, spacing, and citation style . Double-check that all your sources are properly cited, both within the text and in the bibliography or reference list. Finally, read your essay once more to ensure that it is polished and ready for submission.

Wrapping up

By following these guidelines, you can approach essay writing with confidence. Remember to gather your materials and conduct thorough research, create a well-structured outline, and develop a strong argument supported by evidence. Craft an engaging introduction, write clear and concise body paragraphs, and wrap up your essay with a thought-provoking conclusion. Finally, edit and proofread your essay, ensuring that it is well-written and free of errors. By following these steps, you can write an essay that will ingrain your readers and showcase your skills as an academic writer.

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How to Write the Perfect Essay: A Step-By-Step Guide for Students

• June 2, 2022

• What is an essay? 

What makes a good essay?

Typical essay structure, 7 steps to writing a good essay, a step-by-step guide to writing a good essay.

Whether you are gearing up for your GCSE coursework submissions or looking to brush up on your A-level writing skills, we have the perfect essay-writing guide for you. 💯

Staring at a blank page before writing an essay can feel a little daunting . Where do you start? What should your introduction say? And how should you structure your arguments? They are all fair questions and we have the answers! Take the stress out of essay writing with this step-by-step guide – you’ll be typing away in no time. 👩‍💻

What is an essay?

Generally speaking, an essay designates a literary work in which the author defends a point of view or a personal conviction, using logical arguments and literary devices in order to inform and convince the reader.

So – although essays can be broadly split into four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive – an essay can simply be described as a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. 🤔

The purpose of an essay is to present a coherent argument in response to a stimulus or question and to persuade the reader that your position is credible, believable and reasonable. 👌

So, a ‘good’ essay relies on a confident writing style – it’s clear, well-substantiated, focussed, explanatory and descriptive . The structure follows a logical progression and above all, the body of the essay clearly correlates to the tile – answering the question where one has been posed. 

But, how do you go about making sure that you tick all these boxes and keep within a specified word count? Read on for the answer as well as an example essay structure to follow and a handy step-by-step guide to writing the perfect essay – hooray. 🙌

Sometimes, it is helpful to think about your essay like it is a well-balanced argument or a speech – it needs to have a logical structure, with all your points coming together to answer the question in a coherent manner. ⚖️

Of course, essays can vary significantly in length but besides that, they all follow a fairly strict pattern or structure made up of three sections. Lean into this predictability because it will keep you on track and help you make your point clearly. Let’s take a look at the typical essay structure:  

#1 Introduction

Start your introduction with the central claim of your essay. Let the reader know exactly what you intend to say with this essay. Communicate what you’re going to argue, and in what order. The final part of your introduction should also say what conclusions you’re going to draw – it sounds counter-intuitive but it’s not – more on that below. 1️⃣

Make your point, evidence it and explain it. This part of the essay – generally made up of three or more paragraphs depending on the length of your essay – is where you present your argument. The first sentence of each paragraph – much like an introduction to an essay – should summarise what your paragraph intends to explain in more detail. 2️⃣

#3 Conclusion

This is where you affirm your argument – remind the reader what you just proved in your essay and how you did it. This section will sound quite similar to your introduction but – having written the essay – you’ll be summarising rather than setting out your stall. 3️⃣

No essay is the same but your approach to writing them can be. As well as some best practice tips, we have gathered our favourite advice from expert essay-writers and compiled the following 7-step guide to writing a good essay every time. 👍

#1 Make sure you understand the question

#2 complete background reading.

#3 Make a detailed plan 

#4 Write your opening sentences 

#5 flesh out your essay in a rough draft, #6 evidence your opinion, #7 final proofread and edit.

Now that you have familiarised yourself with the 7 steps standing between you and the perfect essay, let’s take a closer look at each of those stages so that you can get on with crafting your written arguments with confidence . 

This is the most crucial stage in essay writing – r ead the essay prompt carefully and understand the question. Highlight the keywords – like ‘compare,’ ‘contrast’ ‘discuss,’ ‘explain’ or ‘evaluate’ – and let it sink in before your mind starts racing . There is nothing worse than writing 500 words before realising you have entirely missed the brief . 🧐

Unless you are writing under exam conditions , you will most likely have been working towards this essay for some time, by doing thorough background reading. Re-read relevant chapters and sections, highlight pertinent material and maybe even stray outside the designated reading list, this shows genuine interest and extended knowledge. 📚

#3 Make a detailed plan

Following the handy structure we shared with you above, now is the time to create the ‘skeleton structure’ or essay plan. Working from your essay title, plot out what you want your paragraphs to cover and how that information is going to flow. You don’t need to start writing any full sentences yet but it might be useful to think about the various quotes you plan to use to substantiate each section. 📝

Having mapped out the overall trajectory of your essay, you can start to drill down into the detail. First, write the opening sentence for each of the paragraphs in the body section of your essay. Remember – each paragraph is like a mini-essay – the opening sentence should summarise what the paragraph will then go on to explain in more detail. 🖊️

Next, it's time to write the bulk of your words and flesh out your arguments. Follow the ‘point, evidence, explain’ method. The opening sentences – already written – should introduce your ‘points’, so now you need to ‘evidence’ them with corroborating research and ‘explain’ how the evidence you’ve presented proves the point you’re trying to make. ✍️

With a rough draft in front of you, you can take a moment to read what you have written so far. Are there any sections that require further substantiation? Have you managed to include the most relevant material you originally highlighted in your background reading? Now is the time to make sure you have evidenced all your opinions and claims with the strongest quotes, citations and material. 📗

This is your final chance to re-read your essay and go over it with a fine-toothed comb before pressing ‘submit’. We highly recommend leaving a day or two between finishing your essay and the final proofread if possible – you’ll be amazed at the difference this makes, allowing you to return with a fresh pair of eyes and a more discerning judgment. 🤓

If you are looking for advice and support with your own essay-writing adventures, why not t ry a free trial lesson with GoStudent? Our tutors are experts at boosting academic success and having fun along the way. Get in touch and see how it can work for you today. 🎒

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How to write a process essay

• August 25, 2023

Process essays are one of the most common types of essays . It’s simply explaining a process of how to do something. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to write a process essay in steps with interactive examples. 

Process essay definition

Let’s take a look at the steps outlined below to write a clear and effective process essay. 

Choose a topic

You should start by choosing a topic that not only interests you but also attracts your target audience. 

Whether it’s brewing the perfect cup of coffee or conquering the art of origami, your topic should be engaging and well-defined.  Let’s have a look at topic examples:

• Crafting Exquisite Miniature Bookbindings
• Building a Sustainable Vertical Garden
• Making the Perfect Cup of Coffee

So for this guide, I’ve chosen “Making the Perfect Cup of Coffee”. Now let’s continue with the next steps.

Create a process essay outline

Now that you’ve your topic at hand, it’s time to create an outline to present the steps chronologically. Outline will also help you organize your thoughts and ideas so you won’t get lost during the writing process.

Let’s examine this step with an example of a process essay explaining “Making the Perfect Cup of Coffee”.

Process essay outline example

• Thesis statement
• Provide safety precautions if necessary.
• Address to the reader
• Provide any variations or customization options if applicable.
• End with a memorable concluding thought or call to action.

By presenting the steps in chronological order, your readers can follow the process smoothly. 

During this step, just make sure to:

• Expand on each step you outlined earlier.
• Use clear and concise language.
• Make use of bullet points or numbered lists to make the process visually appealing.

After completing the outline, it’s time to write an interesting introduction.

Write an introduction

• Hook the reader's interest with a hook sentence
• Offer a brief overview of the topic and its significance
• Introduce and explain the process with a thesis statement at the end of introduction

Process essay introduction example

Introduction

Now that we have an intro on our hand, you need to tell what materials you need to finish the process.

Write the materials needed for the process

Listing the necessary materials for the process is a best practice for process essays. Typically found just after the introduction, this paragraph is devoted to outlining the necessary materials.

Here, p rioritizing the list is important; the more influential a component is, the higher its position on the list should be.

Example material list for process essay

Body paragraphs

Materials needed

• High-quality coffee beans that align with your flavor preference.
• A grinder for optimal flavor extraction.
• Equipment for brewing methods, such as a pour-over apparatus, a drip coffee maker, a French press, or an espresso machine.
• Fresh and clean water for brewing.
• Optional additives like milk, cream, sugar, flavored syrups, or other preferred elements.

Start writing the process

Right after listing the materials needed, it’s time to start writing the process itself.

When describing your process, be careful not to make it too complicated. To keep your readers on track, use transitional words like “after,” “eventually,” “first,” “then,” and others help you maintain an understandable tone.  

Or simply use a 1,2,3, bullet point structure as seen in example below to remind readers of their step during the process.

Body paragraphs - Process writing example

Materials needed ...

• Grind the beans just before brewing for optimal freshness. Use a burr grinder and adjust the coarseness to match your brewing method (coarse for French press, fine for espresso).
• Weigh your coffee grounds using a scale. A standard ratio is 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water, but adjust to your taste.
• Ensure the water is heated to the ideal temperature, typically between 195-205°F (90-96°C). Water that's too hot or too cold can affect the taste.
• Pay attention to the brewing time. Generally, 4-5 minutes is suitable for most methods, but again, adjust based on your preference.
• After finishing, regularly clean your coffee maker or French press to prevent rancid oils and residue from affecting your coffee's taste.

As seen from the example above, using an imperative language structure is generally preferable. It makes total sense as you’re describing a process in steps and usually don’t need a full sentence structure. 

Give tips and supporting details

After explaining the process above, it’s now time to provide tips and supporting details. Here, make use examples, tips, and even warnings if necessary. 

In other words, anticipate the questions your readers might have and address them as you go along. 

Body paragraphs - Supporting details

Supporting details & tips

• Ensure safe handling of hot water and coffee-making equipment.
• Water that's too hot can result in over-extraction, while water that's too cold won't extract enough flavor.

Write a conclusion

At this step, you simply need to write a conclusion paragraph to end your process essay. First summarize the key points, and restate the process in a concise and short sentence. And finally, finish your process essay by a memorable sentence or a call-to-action. 

Process essay conclusion example

Revise and polish your essay.

Now that you’ve written your essay, take a breath, and then come back for some editing. Check for consistency, correct sentence structure, efficient transitions , tense selection , and other linguistic issues that may arise. 

If possible, make use of proofreading tools like QuillBot or Grammarly . 

• Think about potential reader misunderstandings and address them. If needed, explain what should be avoided.
• Offer explanations for steps that might seem unusual or complicated.
• Define any unfamiliar terms or materials that the reader might not understand. This ensures clarity in your essay.

So  you’ve successfully learned how to write a captivating process essay. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you write, the better you’ll become.

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How to Write an Essay

Published March 11, 2021. Updated May 5, 2022.

Essay Definition

An essay is a focused piece of writing that typically expresses a writer’s argument, opinion, or story about one subject.

Overview of an Essay

There is no one correct way to write an essay. Writing is a cyclical process. A writer may start by writing the introduction, get stuck, start writing a body paragraph, and then suddenly get inspiration for something else to put in the introduction.

If the writer has a clear outline, it is perfectly fine to switch between sections of the paper many times throughout the writing process. The four stages of writing an essay are prewriting, writing, revising, and editing. The amount of time spent in each stage depends on the type and complexity of the essay, as well as the individual’s strengths and weaknesses.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Before you even begin writing your essay, there are several things you need to do to prepare your information and organize your ideas. This before-writing, or “prewriting,” stage includes evaluating the prompt or topic, conducting research, writing your working thesis, and creating an outline.

Evaluate the Prompt or Topic

Make sure you understand the assignment and the type of essay you are writing. If given a specific prompt, analyze the prompt several times, underlining or circling key action words like “claim” or “evaluate” along with key dates and terms from your class. If you are not given a specific prompt, consider the topic you want to write about. Most undergraduate-level essays are at least somewhat argumentative in nature. You will likely have to choose a side or position to argue, and now is the time to establish your stance.

Conduct Research

For many writing assignments, conducting research takes the most time. The type of research you conduct depends on the type of essay you are writing. For literary analysis essays, you will likely gather evidence from texts or critical essays on your topic. For argumentative essays, you will likely search databases or books for evidence that supports your claim. Regardless of what information you are searching for, use reliable and credible sources based on your course or discipline’s established guidelines.

Organize your research using a method that works for you. You might create physical or digital flashcards, use a graphic organizer, or simply record information in a document on your computer. Regardless of the method you choose, organize your information according to ideas rather than just listing the information all together. Sorting your information while you research will help you identify trends and areas where you have too much or too little information.

Write Your Working Thesis

A working thesis is a draft version of a thesis statement to use in the final version of your essay. You will likely revise the thesis several times throughout the writing process. Try to be clear and specific, answer the prompt directly, and state a claim you will prove in the essay. Writing the thesis directly after you research but before you draft your paper helps establish your essay’s focus.

Create an Outline

The final part of the prewriting stage is creating an outline. An outline is an organized overview of what you are going to write in your essay. An essay outline identifies your key points in a logical way. Some outlines are simple and identify only the main ideas and supporting details. Others are more complex and include full topic sentences and nearly all the research you plan to use in the essay.

Since you have already written your working thesis statement, the next step in writing your outline is to decide on the main points of your essay. Consider the big ideas that emerged from your research, as well any claims you made in the working thesis. Group your research together in logical ways to support the claim(s).

Each main point will be one of the body paragraphs in your paper. Add supporting details under each key idea. You can add as many or as few details as you like. The more thorough you are in this step, the easier it will be to transfer your outline to paragraph form.

As you write your essay outline, you may have to shuffle the ideas around a few times until you find the order that best supports your claim. You may even end up eliminating an idea that you previously thought would be important in your paper, and that is okay.

The first thing you need to know about how to write your essay is that there is no one correct way to write your essay. Writing is a cyclical process. You may start writing your introduction, get stuck, start writing a body paragraph, and then suddenly get inspiration for something else to put in your introduction. Since you already have a clear outline to help keep you organized, it is perfectly fine to switch between sections of your paper many times throughout your writing process. Below is an overview of the different sections you will create in the first draft of your essay.

Introduction

There are generally three main parts of an introduction: the hook, background information, and a thesis statement.

The hook is an attention-grabbing first sentence or short paragraph. The first thing your audience will read is the hook, and its purpose is to engage the reader. Hooks also establish the context for what you are writing. There are many ways to write a hook, but some common methods include using surprising statistics, interesting quotations, funny anecdotes, or thought-provoking questions.

An example hook for an argumentative essay on the benefits of technology use in education might ask a question to engage the audience:

Have you ever considered how difficult life would be without access to technology?

Or, a hook for the same essay might use a surprising statistic:

According to a 2018 report by Cambridge International, only 48% of students aged 12-19 use desktop computers in the classroom.

Background Information

The second part of the introduction includes background information. This section varies quite a bit in content and length, depending on the discipline, complexity, and paper type. However, its purpose is always to provide a background that helps your reader understand the context in which you will write. This information mentally prepares your reader to tackle the claim you make in the thesis statement and the evidence and analysis in your essay’s body paragraphs.

Thesis Statement

The final part of your introduction is your thesis statement. Since you already drafted your working thesis during the prewriting stage, all you need to do now is transfer that sentence to your introduction and blend it with the background information. Be sure that the thesis statement still matches your claims. If not, revise your thesis according to what you have written in your introduction and discovered during your research.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are the heart of your essay. While you may have been taught to write in a traditional five-paragraph structure when learning to write essays, in reality, the number of body paragraphs you write varies depending on the type of essay and the depth and breadth of research and analysis included.

Each body paragraph has 3 main parts: a topic sentence, evidence and analysis, and a concluding statement.

Topic Sentence

A topic sentence is an overview of your claim for the paragraph. It is a clear, direct statement that establishes your purpose for writing and gives your reader a preview of the order in which you will write the paragraph. A clear topic sentence provides structure and organization. A topic sentence is usually the first sentence of each body paragraph.

Evidence and Analysis

After your topic sentence, include several sentences alternating between evidence and analysis of how that evidence supports both your topic sentence and your thesis statement. Introduce each piece of evidence using your own words and include an in-text citation indicating where you found the information. Below are a few sample sentence starters for introducing evidence:

“According to [author’s name] . . .”

“As outlined in research conducted by [institution name] . . .”

“One example of this _____ can be seen in [study name] . . .”

Vary both the type of evidence you use (e.g. fact, quote, paraphrase) and how you structure the evidence in your paragraph. Using a variety of sources and sentence structures helps your paragraph flow smoothly.

Concluding Statement

After including all relevant evidence and an analysis of the impact of that evidence, end your body paragraph with a concluding statement. This sentence should not simply be a summary. A concluding statement should provide one last analysis of all of the evidence you presented in the paragraph. This is a final way to support the claim in the topic sentence.

The conclusion ties together your main claim and key ideas. It is your final chance to leave a lasting impact on the reader. While it is usually shorter than the introduction, and perhaps even the shortest paragraph in your paper, the conclusion is also the last thing your audience reads.

While some disciplines have specific requirements for a conclusion, in general, a successful conclusion will do three things: review the thesis statement, synthesize your main ideas, and link your writing to a broader context.

The topic sentence of your conclusion should restate your thesis statement in a new way. Try not to mirror the same language or sentence structure of your original thesis statement, or the conclusion may sound repetitive.

The middle of your conclusion paragraph should review your key ideas. Look for ways you can draw connections between the various points, so you discuss them as a group rather than simply listing your topic sentences again. This section should be considered more of a synthesis than a summary.

The final sentences of the conclusion should link your claim, analysis, and findings to something larger than the scope of your paper. One way to do so is to write a few sentences answering the questions “so what?” or “why does this matter?” Providing an answer to one of these questions helps readers grasp the significance of your essay. Consider answering one of the following questions in your conclusion:

How does this topic connect to a global historical or modern issue?

What is a possible solution to the problem you presented?

What questions did you present that need further research?

How does your topic relate to another relevant topic?

Revising and Editing

Revising and editing are the final two stages of writing an essay. While many people consider these to be the same thing, revising and editing have different goals. Revision is a process for improving the structure, organization, and content of your writing. Editing is a process for correcting the spelling, grammar, and punctuation of your writing.

After you have completed one full draft of your paper, read your essay with the purpose of looking for areas where the structure and organization are unclear or do not fully support your thesis statement. You can use the following checklist to help revise your essay for clarity:

• Does the topic sentence of each paragraph clearly connect your idea to the thesis statement?
• Does the topic sentence of each paragraph provide a smooth transition from the previous paragraph?
• Does the topic sentence of each paragraph fully match what you wrote in the paragraph?
• Does each body paragraph have a clear focus?
• Do the body paragraphs progress in a logical order?

If you answered “no” to any of the above questions, revise your writing, so each paragraph is focused, organized, and fully supportive of the thesis statement.

The second part of your revision process involves credibility and sourcing. Reread the body paragraphs of your essay again, this time looking for places where you have unclear evidence or missing citations. You can use the following checklist to help revise your essay for credibility and sourcing:

• Is all the evidence and research clear and specific?
• Do you use a variety of types of evidence (e.g., statistics, paraphrased research, quotes from experts)?
• Is each piece of evidence or research supported by your analysis of that research?
• Does each quote have an author tag to introduce the quote?
• Is each piece of evidence or research followed by an in-text citation according to the format required by the course (e.g., APA, Chicago, MLA)?

Again, if you answered “no” to any of the above questions, now is the time to revise your writing, so each paragraph includes properly cited and credible research.

After you finish revising the content of your paper, spend time editing your paper for what many professors call “grammar and mechanics.” While spell-check programs catch some of these errors, you still need to thoroughly edit the paper yourself. You can use the following checklist to help edit the grammar and mechanics of your paper:

• Did spell-check miss any misspelled words or change words to the wrong ones?
• Do you repeat any words or phrases too often?
• Do you use strong verbs throughout?
• Do you use correct subject/verb agreement?
• Do you write in one tense throughout the paper (usually past)?
• If you include any lists, do you have parallel sentence structure in those lists?
• Is the punctuation between sentences correct?
• Do you have clear antecedents for all pronouns, particularly “this”?
• Does the physical formatting (e.g., line spacing, page numbers, alignment) match the requirements of the course and citation manual?

A final check you can use to make sure the essay does not have any obvious errors is to read the paper out loud. If you hear any sentences that sound awkward, extremely long, or extremely short, go back and edit further.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

Key Takeaways

• The four stages of writing an essay are prewriting, writing, revising, and editing.
• The amount of time you spend in each stage depends on the type and complexity of the essay, as well as your individual strengths and weaknesses.
• Writing an essay is a cyclical process, and it is okay if your final essay looks very different from your prewriting outline.
• Revising is a process in which you focus on improving the content, structure, and organization of your essay. Editing is a process in which you improve the grammar and mechanics of your writing.

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• How to write an essay outline | Guidelines & examples

How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples

Published on August 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph , giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold.

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Table of contents

Organizing your material, presentation of the outline, examples of essay outlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about essay outlines.

At the stage where you’re writing an essay outline, your ideas are probably still not fully formed. You should know your topic  and have already done some preliminary research to find relevant sources , but now you need to shape your ideas into a structured argument.

Creating categories

Look over any information, quotes and ideas you’ve noted down from your research and consider the central point you want to make in the essay—this will be the basis of your thesis statement . Once you have an idea of your overall argument, you can begin to organize your material in a way that serves that argument.

Try to arrange your material into categories related to different aspects of your argument. If you’re writing about a literary text, you might group your ideas into themes; in a history essay, it might be several key trends or turning points from the period you’re discussing.

Three main themes or subjects is a common structure for essays. Depending on the length of the essay, you could split the themes into three body paragraphs, or three longer sections with several paragraphs covering each theme.

As you create the outline, look critically at your categories and points: Are any of them irrelevant or redundant? Make sure every topic you cover is clearly related to your thesis statement.

Order of information

When you have your material organized into several categories, consider what order they should appear in.

Your essay will always begin and end with an introduction and conclusion , but the organization of the body is up to you.

Consider these questions to order your material:

• Is there an obvious starting point for your argument?
• Is there one subject that provides an easy transition into another?
• Do some points need to be set up by discussing other points first?

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Within each paragraph, you’ll discuss a single idea related to your overall topic or argument, using several points of evidence or analysis to do so.

In your outline, you present these points as a few short numbered sentences or phrases.They can be split into sub-points when more detail is needed.

The template below shows how you might structure an outline for a five-paragraph essay.

• Thesis statement
• First piece of evidence
• Second piece of evidence
• Summary/synthesis
• Importance of topic
• Strong closing statement

You can choose whether to write your outline in full sentences or short phrases. Be consistent in your choice; don’t randomly write some points as full sentences and others as short phrases.

Examples of outlines for different types of essays are presented below: an argumentative, expository, and literary analysis essay.

Argumentative essay outline

This outline is for a short argumentative essay evaluating the internet’s impact on education. It uses short phrases to summarize each point.

Its body is split into three paragraphs, each presenting arguments about a different aspect of the internet’s effects on education.

• Importance of the internet
• Concerns about internet use
• Thesis statement: Internet use a net positive
• Data exploring this effect
• Analysis indicating it is overstated
• Students’ reading levels over time
• Why this data is questionable
• Video media
• Interactive media
• Speed and simplicity of online research
• Questions about reliability (transitioning into next topic)
• Evidence indicating its ubiquity
• Claims that it discourages engagement with academic writing
• Evidence that Wikipedia warns students not to cite it
• Argument that it introduces students to citation
• Summary of key points
• Value of digital education for students
• Need for optimism to embrace advantages of the internet

Expository essay outline

This is the outline for an expository essay describing how the invention of the printing press affected life and politics in Europe.

The paragraphs are still summarized in short phrases here, but individual points are described with full sentences.

• Claim that the printing press marks the end of the Middle Ages.
• Provide background on the low levels of literacy before the printing press.
• Present the thesis statement: The invention of the printing press increased circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
• Discuss the very high levels of illiteracy in medieval Europe.
• Describe how literacy and thus knowledge and education were mainly the domain of religious and political elites.
• Indicate how this discouraged political and religious change.
• Describe the invention of the printing press in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg.
• Show the implications of the new technology for book production.
• Describe the rapid spread of the technology and the printing of the Gutenberg Bible.
• Link to the Reformation.
• Discuss the trend for translating the Bible into vernacular languages during the years following the printing press’s invention.
• Describe Luther’s own translation of the Bible during the Reformation.
• Sketch out the large-scale effects the Reformation would have on religion and politics.
• Summarize the history described.
• Stress the significance of the printing press to the events of this period.

Literary analysis essay outline

The literary analysis essay outlined below discusses the role of theater in Jane Austen’s novel Mansfield Park .

The body of the essay is divided into three different themes, each of which is explored through examples from the book.

• Describe the theatricality of Austen’s works
• Outline the role theater plays in Mansfield Park
• Introduce the research question : How does Austen use theater to express the characters’ morality in Mansfield Park ?
• Discuss Austen’s depiction of the performance at the end of the first volume
• Discuss how Sir Bertram reacts to the acting scheme
• Introduce Austen’s use of stage direction–like details during dialogue
• Explore how these are deployed to show the characters’ self-absorption
• Discuss Austen’s description of Maria and Julia’s relationship as polite but affectionless
• Compare Mrs. Norris’s self-conceit as charitable despite her idleness
• Summarize the three themes: The acting scheme, stage directions, and the performance of morals
• Answer the research question
• Indicate areas for further study

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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You will sometimes be asked to hand in an essay outline before you start writing your essay . Your supervisor wants to see that you have a clear idea of your structure so that writing will go smoothly.

Even when you do not have to hand it in, writing an essay outline is an important part of the writing process . It’s a good idea to write one (as informally as you like) to clarify your structure for yourself whenever you are working on an essay.

If you have to hand in your essay outline , you may be given specific guidelines stating whether you have to use full sentences. If you’re not sure, ask your supervisor.

When writing an essay outline for yourself, the choice is yours. Some students find it helpful to write out their ideas in full sentences, while others prefer to summarize them in short phrases.

You should try to follow your outline as you write your essay . However, if your ideas change or it becomes clear that your structure could be better, it’s okay to depart from your essay outline . Just make sure you know why you’re doing so.

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If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 19, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-outline/

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How to Write a Persuasive Essay

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So you've been assigned a persuasive paper and you're staring at a blinking cursor. What do you do first? How do you pick a good topic? Today we're going to learn how to write a persuasive essay, so you can get that assignment done. 

As we continue our back-to-school series on writing essays, today we look at the persuasive essay. 

Today's article is written by guest writer Cora Weems who is a senior at the University of South Carolina. She typically writes narrative poetry, slightly depressing short stories, and effective academic essays. Her hobbies include trying to get through a tall stack of unread books and handcrafts like card-making. Welcome, Cora! 

What is a Persuasive Essay?

A persuasive essay is a piece of writing that aims to convince the reader to adopt a specific viewpoint or take action. To support it, you'll use logical arguments, compelling evidence, emotional appeals, and personalization.

In school, teachers often assign controversial issues, but you can develop your own topic too.

Learning to write a persuasive essay though is terrific practice for all kinds of writing. From public debate to sales letters and marketing, persuasive writing skills can carry you far beyond your school experience.

Let's go through the full process!

How to Write a Persuasive Essay: 6 Steps to Help You Start

Here are six steps to help you get your essay started.

Step 1: Pick a Suitable Topic

Maybe your teacher's already given you a prompt, or a specific topic to follow. Or maybe they've sent you on your way with just the rubric and an example paper to help you with formatting.

When it comes to persuasive writing, you need a position that you develop into a central idea. You'll have to support that position with all your evidence and reasoning.

Ideally, it should be a topic you're already familiar with and interested in. That will give you a better starting position and help keep you motivated to keep researching and writing!

When you are given a topic, you'll still want to develop a debatable position.

Here are three examples of broad persuasive essay topics:

• The Impact of Social Media on Society
• Climate Change and Environmental Responsibility
• The Role of Education in Reducing Income Inequality

It should not be a topic that has a specific single right answer or solution, but rather, a number of positions and solutions that you can take.

Your topic should be one of the very first things you address in your essay, in the topic sentence of your introductory paragraph, so your reader can immediately know what you're writing about. 

To choose a suitable topic, ask yourself if the topic has multiple positions to take, and if you can reasonably research and take one position. That leads us to step 2:

Step 2: Research Both Sides, But Only Pick One

Even though you're only trying to advocate for one side of your argument, you should know the perspectives of both sides. Not only will this give you a better understanding of your topic, but it will help you prepare a counter argument that will make your essay more convincing. 

If you've chosen a controversial topic, then there should be at least two opposing viewpoints that you can read about for supporting evidence. 

Perhaps when you picked your topic, you already had a preferred stance, but researching the other side will give you fresh insight into what you actually believe, rather than relying on what you already knew. 

Strong arguments typically address the opposing side's perspective and acknowledge them, for the purpose of refuting that argument and making your own appear stronger.

Or maybe you think both sides of your argument have valid points, so you think you'll about both and let the reader decide. Don't do that!

Not only is it more work for you, but the reader will be confused about your point.

You can acknowledge the strongest parts of the opposing view while you counter with your own perspective.

Step 3: Craft a Thesis Statement

Writing a thesis statement is a skill that goes beyond just persuasive writing. It's particularly important in this case because it gives both you and the reader a clear vision on how the rest of your paper is going to go. 

You should explicitly state what you position is and what the rest of your paper is going to be about. It's usually a sentence or two long, so don't worry about being thorough or too specific. You'll Expand on it in your body paragraphs.

Typically, your thesis statement is located at the end of your introductory paragraph which allows for a natural transition from introducing your topic to the more specific reasons for your position on that topic. 

You can use this statement to outline the rest of your paper, from what each paragraph is going to addressing the type of evidence you'll be using.

For example, if you choose the topic about the impact of social media on society, you want a thesis statement that covers the position and scope of your paper. Here's an example: 

Social media like Facebook negatively impacts society through the ease of sharing misinformation, and both individuals and social media platforms need to do more to curb the spread of misinformation.

Notice how the position this writer takes is that Facebook negatively impacts society because of how it's used to share misinformation.

Now how would they support that thesis?

Step 4: Use the Right Evidence

Once you take a position, it's the time to show the reader why your viewpoint in particular is the one they should follow.

For academic writing, the most effective evidence is peer-reviewed articles published in academic journals. Peer-reviewed articles are seen as the most credible because they've been viewed and cleared by a number of different people, which means multiple people agreed that this article is reliable. 

If you chose the wrong evidence, your entire argument is at risk of falling apart. You should not be choosing evidence that is false or unreliable, because your evidence is the foundation that your position stands upon. 

Even if you don't want to go searching through databases for jargon-filled journal articles, all the evidence you choose should be from credible sources. It could be an expert opinion or some form of anecdotal evidence that could help personalize the issue for your reader. 

You may have heard the terms “ethos,” “pathos,” and “logos” in class. When crafting something persuasive, you should appeal to authority, emotion, and logic. 

Using evidence from an expert is an appeal to ethos or authority, credibility.

If you cite statistics from a reputable source, that might be an appeal to logic.

A related anecdote that makes the reader angry or sympathetic may be an emotional appeal.

The best persuasive essays use all three.

A persuasive argument is typically supported by a number of different sources that appeal to all parts of the reader, from their logical side to their more heartfelt one. All of those different perspectives will come together to make your argument stronger and more effective. 

For example, in our example above on the impact of social media, the thesis statement reads: “Social media like Facebook negatively impacts society through the ease of sharing misinformation, and both individuals and social media platforms need to do more to curb the spread of misinformation.”

To support, this paper would need to show data about misinformation on Facebook, demonstrate the ways that misinformation negatively impacts society, and then offer the best solutions in the form of individual and company interventions.

Step 5: Use Natural Transitions

As you add evidence to your argument, use transitions that help the reader see the connections you're making.

If you've ever felt your eyes begin to glaze over when you see a wall of text or a bunch of graphs and statistics in one place, the writer lost you in making the needed connections and transitions. You don't want to do that to your reader. 

Introduce a point, then use evidence to support that point, and then expand on that evidence. Whether it's by paraphrasing it so the reader can more easily digest it, or by showing the reader exactly how it connects back to what you're trying to persuade them. 

This not only applies to evidence, but also moving between paragraphs. There should be a topic sentence near the beginning of every paragraph to tell the reader what that paragraph is about, and you should use the last sentence of the previous paragraph to lead into it. 

Doing this helps improve the flow of your essay and keeps the reader's attention. If they never have to stop and wonder how you got to a certain point, then you can keep all their attention purely on your argument. 

Step 6: Make It Applicable

As you bring your essay to a close, most persuasive papers end with some call to action. It might be that you are asking the reader to understand an issue differently. Maybe you want to them to change their minds or donate money or take other action.

Make sure your conclusion answers the question, “So what?” Give your reader something to occupy their mind even after they're done reading. You want to tell them why reading your argument was important, and give them a reason to keep thinking about your argument even after you're done. 

Doing so will leave a lasting impression of your paper on your reader, which will make your essay more persuasive and effective. 

Persuade us!

So there you have it. Some ways to help move that blinking cursor.

It's okay to start with a draft that's just you cramming all your ideas onto a document. Don't worry about formal language yet. Reorganizing and rewriting that rough draft is part of what makes a good paper. 

Plus, writing it all out will let you see what you actually thought the most important parts were, and revision allows you to highlight those strong points and focus on what you think the reader should know. 

Here's a question to help you keep going even after you've finished the messy first draft: What makes this essay important to you?

Beyond the grade it will get in class, beyond how it will affect your GPA or academic standing, what about this essay is important? What about this will affect more people than just you?

Throughout your life, you'll constantly find times where you have to use persuasion. Maybe it won't be in essay format or presented in a Power Point, but finding ways to be persuasive is something that will help you in the rest of your life. 

So let's think of this essay as practice, and learn how to be as persuasive as we can. 

What are your best tips for persuasive writing? Share in the comments . 

Set your timer for fifteen minutes . Choose a persuasive topic that you can take a clear position on. Make a list of the reasons for your current view point. Then, do some research and read possible evidence both in support and in opposition to your view. Choose the strongest two to three pieces. 

If you still have time, craft a thesis statement that distills your argument, and begin writing the essay. While it will take you longer than fifteen minutes to write the essay, sometimes just getting started in fifteen minutes is enough to make a difference!

When finished, post your thesis and current direction in the Pro Practice Workshop , and leave feedback for a few other writers. 

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How to Write a Process Essay

Last Updated: December 6, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 169,129 times.

A process essay, otherwise known as a how-to essay, tells a reader how to perform a particular task. The best process essays follow a clear step-by-step organization. Start by providing your reader with a time estimate and general summary of the task. Then, move on to a more detailed explanation of each and every necessary step. When you are finished with your essay, read it over carefully to ensure that you haven’t left anything out.

Getting Ready to Write

• For example, a process essay intended for professional chefs could probably skip a description of how to chop carrots and just say, “Finely chop the carrots,” instead.

• You could also include a comprehensive “Things You’ll Need” section at the beginning of the paper. Or list the materials needed after the introduction.
• If an item on the list is a bit unusual, such as a particular type of hand tool, then make sure to clearly introduce it within the text. For example, “The pin hammer has a finer tip than a standard hammer, making it suitable for more detailed work.” You can also include a picture of the item, particularly if the essay will be published online.

• If you are writing an essay about how to cook lasagna, your initial outline might just state, “Mix in basil.” Before you start writing, you could expand your outline to say, “Briefly mention taste differences between dried and fresh basil.”
• Note that the more specific your article or essay topic, the more specific your details needs to be.

Crafting an Introduction

• For instance, you might write, “The process of preparing lasagna has a rich heritage all of its own.”

• If your process essay focuses on a cooking task, this is where you might advise your readers to consult the ingredients or materials list and put every item on the counter.
• For example, you might write, “This recipe requires 30 minutes of active preparation time, along with 45 minutes of baking time.”

• For example, your thesis might be, “This essay will explore how to create a complicated lasagna dish in a short period of time by preparing the noodles and sauce in advance.”

Writing Your Body Paragraphs

• Be especially careful with items that contain multiple steps. Make the transitions clear and acknowledge prior steps regarding a particular item, if applicable.

• For instance, when making pasta, consider writing a paragraph on how to boil pasta and another paragraph on how to make the sauce. This separates the ideas for easy clarification.

• For instance, you could write, “Next, place the pot on the stove,” to move from one paragraph to the next.

• For example, you could write, “This essay shows…” instead of “I’ll show.”

• For example, you might caution a reader to, “Cook the meat until it is no longer red in the center.” This advice will help them to avoid a foodborne illness.

Wrapping It Up

• In the case of the recipe, you could write something like, “You now have a bowl of boiled pasta and finished Bolognese sauce. Serve up plates of pasta and sauce to your family, topping them with parmesan, if desired. You can serve garlic bread or a side salad with this dish, too.”

• A simple example for our newly-made dinner might be, "And there you have it! A delicious yet quick meal fit for the entire family that you can make over and over again without complaint. Next time, experiment with different herbs and spices to find your own spin on this classic dish."

• Look to see if there are places where you can eliminate steps or condense your instructions. A reader is more likely to finish directions that they can easily skim through.
• Ask someone to read through the essay to see if they can understand the process. If possible, pick someone from your intended audience demographic.

• Don’t rely on spell-check alone, as it cannot account for context and doesn’t catch every error.

Expert Q&A

• If there are alternative ways to do a particular step in the process, make sure to mention these as you go along. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Give your readers pacing instructions as well. If they need to go slowly while performing a certain task, tell them early on. The same rule applies if a task requires speed for success. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/essay-outline/
• ↑ https://www.georgebrown.ca/sites/default/files/uploadedfiles/tlc/_documents/hooks_and_attention_grabbers.pdf
• ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/atd-clinton-englishcomp/chapter/2-the-process-essay/
• ↑ http://www.butte.edu/departments/cas/tipsheets/style_purpose_strategy/procress_paper.html
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/readability-scores/

About This Article

To write a process essay, begin by writing an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention so they’ll want to keep reading. Then, end the first paragraph with a thesis statement presenting a problem for which you are offering a solution. Next, explain the process, making each step its own paragraph, and using transitions like "next" or "then" to move from one task to another. As the final step, let the reader know what to expect from the finished product and what to do with it. Finally, close your essay by reiterating why the process is helpful to the reader. For tips from our Education reviewer on how to proofread for common errors in a process essay, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Module 8: Study Skills

The writing process, learning outcomes.

• Identify writing-process steps for the development of academic writing, including revision and proofreading

The following video provides an excellent overview of research essays, one of the most common kinds of writing assignments you’ll encounter in college.

You can view the transcript for “Writing” here (opens in new window) .

No writer, not even a professional, composes a perfect draft in her first attempt. Every writer fumbles and has to work through a series of steps to arrive at a high-quality finished project.

You may have encountered these steps as assignments in classes—draft a thesis statement, complete an outline, turn in a rough draft, participate in a peer review, and turn in a final draft. The further you get into higher education, the less often these steps will be completed as part of class.

That’s not to say that you won’t still need to follow these steps on your own time. It helps to recognize that these steps, commonly referred to as the writing process , aren’t rigid and prescribed. Instead, it can be liberating to see them as flexible, allowing you to adapt them to your own personal habits, preferences, and the topic at hand. You will probably find that your process changes, depending on the type of writing you’re doing and your comfort level with the subject matter.

The flowchart is a helpful visualization of the steps involved, outside of the classroom, toward completing an essay. Keep in mind that it isn’t always a linear process, though. It’s okay to loop back to earlier steps again if needed. For instance, after completing a draft, you may realize that a significant aspect of the topic is missing, which sends you back to researching. Or the process of research may lead you to an unexpected subtopic, which shifts your focus and leads you to revise your thesis. Embrace the circular path that writing often takes!

Revision and Proofreading

These last two stages of the writing process are often confused with each other, but they mean very different things, and serve very different purposes.

Revision is literally “re-seeing.” It asks a writer to step away from a piece of work for a significant amount of time and return later to see it with new eyes. This is why the process of producing multiple drafts of an essay is so important. It allows some space in between, to let thoughts mature, connections to arise, and gaps in content or an argument to appear. It’s also difficult to do, especially given that most college students face tight timelines to get big writing projects done. Still, there are some tricks to help you re-see a piece of writing when you’re short on time, such as reading a paper backward, sentence by sentence, and reading your work aloud. Both are ways of reconceptualizing your own writing so you approach it from a fresh perspective. Whenever possible, though, build in at least a day or two to set a draft aside before returning to work on the final version.

Proofreading , on the other hand, is the very last step taken before turning in a project. This is the point where spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting all take center stage.

Learn these rules, and if you hate them, learn to love them. In college, writing stops being about “how well did you understand fill-in-the-blank” and becomes “how professionally and strongly do you argue your point.” Professionalism, I have found, is the key to the real world, and college is, in part, preparing you for it. If you do not learn how to write in a way that projects professionalism (i.e., these rules), then expect to get, at best, Cs on your papers. —Kaethe Leonard, SUNY student

A person can be the best writer in the world and still be a terrible proofreader. It’s okay not to memorize every rule out there, but know where to turn for help. Utilizing the grammar-check feature of your word processor is a good start, but it won’t solve every issue (and may even cause a few itself).

Your campus tutoring or writing center is a good place to turn for support and help. They may not proofread your paper for you, but they will offer you strategies for how to spot issues that are a pattern in your writing.

Finding a trusted person to help you edit is perfectly ethical, as long as that person offers you advice and doesn’t actually do any of the writing for you. Professional writers rely on outside readers for both the revision and editing process, and it’s a good practice for you to do so, too.

proofreading: a final step that involves checking one’s spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting, and other technical details

revision: to revisit a draft for the purpose of gaining a fresh perspective and thus improving the next draft

writing process: the steps one follows when completing a writing assignment, which may include drafting a thesis statement, completing an outline, turning in a rough draft, and participating in a peer review

• Writing Strategies. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
• Writing. Authored by : UBC LEAP. Located at : https://youtu.be/6Jgwc3sXLCc . License : CC BY: Attribution
• Image of Research Paper Writing. Provided by : University of British Columbia, Vancouver Campus. Located at : http://learningcommons.ubc.ca/student-toolkits-2/writing/ . License : CC BY: Attribution

How to Write a Great Process Essay

Otherwise Known as a How-To Essay

CSA-Archive / iStock Vectors / Getty Images 

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

How-to essays , also known as process essays, are much like recipes: They provide instruction for carrying out a procedure or task. You can write a how-to essay about any procedure that you find interesting as long as your topic fits the teacher's assignment.

Start by Brainstorming

The first step in writing your how-to essay is brainstorming. Here are tips to help you:

• Draw a line down the middle of a sheet of paper to make two columns. Label one column "materials" and the other column "steps."
• Write down every item and every step you can think of that will be needed to carry out your task. Don't worry about trying to keep things in order yet. Just empty your head.
• Number your steps on your brainstorming page. Just jot a number beside each item/step. You may need to erase and scribble a few times to get the order right. It's not a neat process.

Create an Outline

First, determine the format required for your essay; ask your teacher if you are unsure. Your essay could contain a numbered list (like the one in the previous section), or it could be written as a standard narrative essay. If you are instructed to write a step-by-step without using numbers, your essay should contain all the elements of any other essay assignment, including an:

• Introductory paragraph : the section that identifies the  topic , arouses interest, and prepares the audience or readers for the development of the thesis
• Body : the part of an essay that develops the main idea
• Conclusion : the sentences  or paragraphs that bring the essay to a logical end

Regardless of the essay format—whether your teacher allows for numbered paragraphs or sections or simply wants you to craft a narrative report—your outline should center on these three areas.

Creating the Essay

Your introduction will explain why your topic is important or relevant. For example, your paper about "How to Wash a Dog" would explain that dog hygiene is important for your pet's good health.

• Your first body paragraph should contain a list of necessary materials. For example: "The equipment you will need depends somewhat on the size of your dog. At the very minimum, you will need dog shampoo, a large towel, and a container large enough to hold your dog. And, of course, you will need a dog."
• The next paragraphs should contain instructions for following steps in your process, as enumerated in your outline.
• Your summary, or conclusion, explains how your task or process should turn out if it is done correctly. It may also be appropriate to restate the importance of your topic.

Topics to Write About

You may believe that you are not expert enough to write a process essay. This is not so. There are many processes that you go through every day that you can write about, including:

• How to make a perfect paper airplane
• How to dye your hair
• How to wear makeup
• How to survive a weekend with your family
• How to play basketball
• How to play (a popular video game)

The goal in this type of assignment is to show that you can write a well-organized essay and clearly explain to the reader how to do what you are instructing.

• List of Topics for How-to Essays
• 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
• How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech (With Topic Ideas)
• Venn Diagrams to Plan Essays and More
• 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
• What Is Expository Writing?
• Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
• What an Essay Is and How to Write One
• Tips for Writing a "What I Did on Vacation" Essay
• How to Write a Personal Narrative
• The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
• Structure of a Descriptive Essay
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Sentence for an Essay
• How to Outline and Organize an Essay
• How to Write a Response Paper

How to Write Essays with AI: Boost Your Writing Even If You Get Stuck

Are you staring at a blank page, struggling to start your essay? 

AI essay writing tools can help you overcome writer’s block and produce high-quality essays in less time. Well, imagine crafting well-structured, engaging essays with ease, impressing your professors, and boosting your grades. 

In this guide, I will show you how to effectively use AI to enhance your essay writing process, even if you’re a complete beginner.

What are AI Essay Writing Tools?

Think of AI essay writing tools as your personal writing assistants. They harness the power of artificial intelligence to generate text, provide suggestions, and enhance your overall writing process.

When it comes to writing essays, many students are turning to AI tools to help streamline the process and improve their work. However, if you don’t feel comfortable using AI, there are excellent essay writing services out there that guarantee that students will pass the plagiarism check. Ultimately, the choice between AI assistance and the old way is up to you!

But before you dive headfirst into the world of AI-powered essay writing, let’s explore what these tools are and how they can benefit you.

What are AI essay writing tools?

AI essay writing tools are software programs or online platforms that utilize machine learning algorithms to understand your writing prompts and generate relevant content. They can help you with various aspects of essay writing, including brainstorming ideas, structuring your essay, and even polishing your grammar and style.

Types of AI tools available for essay writing

• AI-Powered Writing Assistants: Think of these as your personal editors, always ready to polish your prose. They catch those pesky grammar and spelling slip-ups, offer suggestions to enhance your accurate and relevant vocabulary, and even rephrase sentences for improved clarity.
• AI-Driven Essay Outliners: If organizing your thoughts feels like herding cats, these tools are your saviors. They help brainstorm ideas, craft well-structured outlines, and ensure your essays flow logically from start to finish.
• AI-Based Plagiarism Checkers: Originality is key, and these tools have your back. They scan your work against massive databases, ensuring your writing is unique and properly cited, giving you peace of mind.
• AI-Powered Citation Generators: Forget about wrestling with citation formats. These tools effortlessly generate citations in various styles (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.), saving you time and frustration.
• AI-Enhanced Research Assistants: Need to delve deeper into your topic? These tools act as your research sidekicks, gathering relevant information, summarizing key points, and offering valuable insights to bolster your arguments.

Benefits and limitations of using AI for essay writing

Let’s explore what these AI tools bring to the table and where they might fall short.

AI essay writing tools can be a game-changer, especially when you’re facing writer’s block or struggling to meet a deadline. They can help you:

• Generate ideas: Stuck on what to write about? AI tools can brainstorm topics and create outlines to get you started.
• Improve your writing: These tools can help you refine your grammar, style, and overall clarity.
• Save time: AI can automate parts of the writing process, giving you more time to focus on the big picture.

Limitations

While AI writing tools are powerful, they’re not perfect. Keep these limitations in mind:

• Lack of originality: AI-generated content might lack the unique voice and perspective that make your writing stand out.
• Accuracy concerns: AI tools can sometimes produce inaccurate or biased information. Always double-check the facts.
• Over-reliance: Depending too much on AI can hinder your own writing skills and creativity.

Remember, AI essay writing tools are meant to be your assistants, not your replacements. Use them wisely to enhance your writing, but don’t let them take over completely.

Why AI Tools are Revolutionizing Essay Writing

AI tools are changing the essay writing game, and here’s why they’re causing such a stir:

• They turbocharge your productivity. Picture this: you’re staring at a blank screen, the deadline looming. AI tools can jumpstart your writing with ideas, outlines, and even full paragraphs. Suddenly, that daunting essay feels much more manageable.
• They act like your personal writing coach. Ever wish you had an editor on speed dial? AI tools can check your grammar, suggest better word choices, and even point out clunky sentences. Your writing becomes clearer and more polished, even if you’re not a natural wordsmith.
• They make research a breeze. Scouring the internet for sources can eat up hours. AI tools can quickly gather relevant information and even summarize key points. You’ll spend less time hunting down facts and more time crafting your argument.
• They spark your creativity. Sometimes, you just need a fresh perspective. AI tools can suggest different angles to explore or rephrase your ideas in a more engaging way. It’s like having a brainstorming partner built right into your computer.

AI tools are like having a whole team of writing assistants at your fingertips. They take care of the tedious tasks, freeing you up to focus on the heart of your essay. So, whether you’re a student struggling with a term paper or a professional crafting a report, AI tools can help you take your writing to the next level.

How to Write Essays with AI

Writing essays with AI is a collaborative process. Think of it as having a writing assistant who can help you brainstorm, research, and even draft sections of your essay. The key is to strike the right balance, leveraging AI’s capabilities while ensuring your own voice and ideas shine through.

#1: Choose the Right AI Essay Writing Tool

The first step in your AI-powered essay writing journey is selecting the right tool for the job. There are many options out there, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

Some popular AI essay writers and generators include:

• Tools focused on generating ideas and outlines: These are great for brainstorming and getting your thoughts organized.
• Tools that help with research and fact-checking: These can save you hours of digging through sources.
• Tools that offer grammar and style suggestions: These can help you polish your writing and ensure clarity.
• Tools that can generate entire paragraphs or even essays: These can be helpful when you’re short on time or need a starting point.

When choosing an AI tool, consider these factors:

• Your specific needs: What kind of help do you need most? Brainstorming, research, grammar, or full AI essay generator?
• Ease of use: Is the tool intuitive and easy to navigate?
• Features: Does the tool offer the features you’re looking for?
• Price: Is the tool within your budget? Some offer free trials or limited free plans, while others require a subscription.

If you’re on a tight budget, there are several free AI essay writing tools available. These might have limitations compared to paid options, but they can still be valuable resources. Paid tools often offer more advanced features, flexibility, and support.

Ultimately, the best AI essay writing tool for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Take the time to explore different options and see which one feels like the right fit. Remember, the goal is to find a tool that enhances your writing process, not replaces it.

#2: Prepare Your Essay Outline

Once you’ve chosen your AI tool, it’s time to start building the framework for your essay: the outline. This is where AI can really shine, helping you generate ideas and structure your thoughts.

Start by providing the AI with your essay topic or prompt. Many tools have a dedicated “outline generation” feature that can quickly create a basic structure based on your input. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different prompts or keywords to see what kind of outlines the AI generates.

Remember, the AI-generated outline is just a starting point. Take the time to review it carefully, refining the structure and ensuring it flows logically. This is where your own critical thinking skills come into play. Are the main points clear and relevant? Do they support your thesis statement? Feel free to add, remove, or rearrange sections as needed.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to infuse your own insights and perspectives into the outline. AI can provide a solid foundation, but it’s your unique voice and ideas that will make your essay stand out. Add personal anecdotes, original arguments, or creative examples to make the outline truly your own.

#3: Draft Your Essay with the AI Essay Writer

Now that you have a solid outline, it’s time to start fleshing out your essay. This is where the AI truly becomes your writing partner, helping you generate content and expand on your ideas.

Start by feeding the AI tool-specific sections of your outline. You can ask it to generate paragraphs, provide examples, or even complete entire sections. The more specific your prompts, the more relevant and useful the AI-generated content will be. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different phrasing or ask the AI to rephrase its output if it doesn’t quite hit the mark.

Once you have some AI-generated text, it’s time to make it your own. Read through it carefully, adding your own insights, personal experiences, or unique perspectives. You can also use the AI-generated content as a springboard for further research or exploration. Remember, the AI is there to assist you, not dictate your writing.

As you draft your essay, pay close attention to your voice and style. Make sure the AI-generated content blends seamlessly with your own writing. If necessary, rewrite or rephrase sections to ensure consistency and maintain your unique voice throughout the essay.

#4: Edit and Refine Your AI-Assisted Essay

You’ve used AI to generate ideas, create an outline, and even draft sections of your essay. Now it’s time to polish your work and ensure it’s error-free, original, and truly reflects your best writing.

AI tools can be invaluable during the editing and refining stage. Many offer built-in grammar and style checkers that can catch typos, grammatical errors, and awkward phrasing. Some even provide suggestions for improving sentence structure and clarity. Use these features to fine-tune your writing and ensure it’s polished and professional.

While AI can be a powerful research papers tool, it’s important to double-check any facts or information it provides. Take the time to verify sources and ensure accuracy. This will not only improve the credibility of your essay but also help you avoid any potential plagiarism issues.

Speaking of plagiarism, it’s crucial to maintain originality in your writing, even when using AI assistance. Remember, the AI is a tool to help you express your own ideas, not replace them. If you rely too heavily on AI-generated content, your essay may lack the unique voice and perspective that make it stand out. Always review the AI’s output carefully and make sure it aligns with your own thoughts and arguments.

Finally, don’t be afraid to put your own stamp on the essay. Edit and revise the AI-generated content to ensure it flows seamlessly with your own writing. Add personal anecdotes, original insights, and creative examples to make the essay truly your own.

Best Practices for Enhancing AI-Generated Content

AI tools can be your best friend when it comes to writing essays, but getting the most out of them involves a bit of finesse. Let’s explore some best practices for taking that AI-generated content and turning it into something truly impressive.

Use AI for Specific Tasks

AI is a toolbox filled with different instruments. Each tool excels at a specific task, and knowing when to reach for the right one can make all the difference.

For example, AI is a whiz at generating ideas and outlines . Stuck staring at a blank page? AI can brainstorm topics, create outlines, and even suggest thesis statements to get your creative juices flowing.

Similarly, AI can help you overcome writer’s block . If you’re struggling to find the right words or transition between ideas, AI can offer suggestions or even generate entire sentences to help you keep moving forward.

AI can also be a fantastic proofreader . It can spot typos, grammatical errors, and even suggest ways to improve your sentence structure. Think of it as having a built-in editor who never gets tired.

It is worthy to take note that AI isn’t a magic wand. It’s best at specific tasks, and relying on it for everything can lead to a bland and generic essay. Use it strategically to enhance your writing, not replace it entirely.

Use AI with Traditional Writing Methods

While AI can streamline parts of the writing process, it’s important to remember that it’s a tool, not a replacement for your own skills and knowledge. It is a collaborator working alongside you as a free essay generator.

Don’t be afraid to combine AI with traditional writing methods. Start by brainstorming essay ideas and creating an outline the old-fashioned way, using pen and paper or a simple word processor. Then, turn to AI for assistance with research, generating content for specific sections, or even proofreading your work.

By blending AI with your own writing process, you can leverage the best of both worlds. You’ll benefit from AI’s efficiency and speed while still maintaining control over your essay’s voice and direction. Your goal should always be to create a well-written, original piece that reflects your own ideas and perspectives.

Incorporate Personal Experiences and Perspectives

One of the most effective ways to elevate AI-generated content is to infuse it with your own unique voice and experiences. Remember, AI can provide information and structure, but it can’t replicate the personal touch that makes your writing truly yours.

Don’t be afraid to share your own stories, anecdotes, or observations. These personal touches can add depth and authenticity to your essay, making it more engaging and memorable for the reader.

Think of AI as a collaborator, providing you with a foundation to build upon. Use its suggestions as a starting point, then weave in your own thoughts and perspectives to create a truly original and compelling piece of writing.

Seek Human Feedback and Collaboration

Even the most advanced AI can’t replace the value of human feedback. Don’t hesitate to share your AI-assisted drafts with peers, mentors, or even professional editors. They can provide valuable insights, catch errors that AI might miss, and offer suggestions for improving clarity and flow.

Collaboration is also key. Bounce ideas off of others, engage in brainstorming sessions, and use AI as a tool to facilitate discussion and exploration. Remember, writing is a process, and involving others can lead to new perspectives and a stronger final product.

Ultimately, the execeptional essays are a blend of AI assistance and human creativity. By actively seeking feedback and collaborating with others, you can refine your AI-generated content and produce truly exceptional work.

Develop Your Own Writing Style

While AI can generate impressive content, it’s essential to remember that it’s a tool to support your writing, not replace it. To truly stand out, focus on developing your own unique writing style.

Pay attention to your word choice, sentence structure, and overall tone. What kind of voice do you want to convey in your writing? Are you aiming for a formal, academic tone or a more conversational and engaging style?

Experiment with different approaches and see what feels most natural to you. As you gain more experience, you’ll start to develop a signature style that sets your writing apart.

Remember, AI can be a valuable resource for generating ideas and improving clarity, but it’s your own unique voice and perspective that will make your essays truly shine.

Key Considerations for Successfully Writing Essays with AI

AI is revolutionizing many aspects of our lives, and essay writing is no exception. However, integrating AI into your essay writing process requires thoughtful consideration. Let’s delve into some key factors to keep in mind to ensure a successful and ethical experience.

Ethical Considerations

While AI can be a powerful tool, it’s crucial to use it responsibly. Plagiarism is a serious offense, and relying solely on AI-generated content can lead to unintentional academic dishonesty. Always ensure you understand and properly cite any information or ideas sourced from AI tools.

Balancing AI Assistance with Developing Your Own Skills

AI can be a fantastic aid, but it shouldn’t replace your own learning and growth. Strive to balance AI assistance with honing your own writing abilities. Use AI to brainstorm, research, and refine your work, but actively engage in the writing process to develop your critical thinking and communication skills.

Potential Pitfalls of Over-Reliance

Over-reliance on AI can hinder your development as a writer. If you become too dependent on AI-generated content, you might miss out on opportunities to cultivate your own unique voice and style. Remember, AI is a tool to enhance your writing, not a substitute for it.

Alternatives to AI Essay Writing: Get a Professional Writer

If you find yourself struggling with essay writing or facing tight deadlines, consider enlisting the help of a professional writer. They can provide expert guidance, personalized feedback, and ensure your essays are polished and impactful.

Final Thoughts on AI Essay Writing

AI essay writing tools offer powerful assistance in crafting high-quality essays, but they’re most effective when used as a complement to your own skills and insights. By following this guide, you can harness the power of AI to overcome writing challenges, enhance your essays, and develop your abilities as a writer.

Remember, the goal is not to replace your unique voice, but to amplify it. Are you ready to revolutionize your essay writing process with AI?

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New in NoRedInk: AI Grading, Reading Mode, and More

From AI grading for teachers to new ways to embrace integrated reading and writing, NoRedInk’s latest updates equip ELA teachers to deliver stronger, more consistent instruction.

Learning to be a strong writer and critical thinker is a lifelong process. As a team led by many former educators, we recognize the importance of continual improvement and are always working to provide teachers with new tools that support strong ELA instruction. As the school year gets underway, we encourage teachers to check out these exciting recent additions to NoRedInk’s comprehensive writing platform:

• Grading Assistant: An AI essay grading tool that reduces grading time by over 40% .
• Reading Mode: A collection of text annotation and text readability features that help build reading and writing skills.
• Short Response Guided Drafts for Grades 6–12: Scaffolded writing activities that guide secondary students through the process of crafting an exceptional paragraph.
• Smoother co-teaching: Teachers can now grant other teachers or support staff access to specific classes in their NoRedInk accounts.

Grading Assistant: AI grading for teachers

Designed to lighten teachers’ grading workloads, NoRedInk’s Grading Assistant evaluates student writing submissions against a range of rubric items, suggesting scores and specific, supportive, actionable written feedback. AI essay grading automates the most time-consuming aspects of providing feedback, enabling teachers to focus on delivering stronger writing instruction and developing deeper connections with students.

Unlike with other AI grading tools, students will never see feedback from the Grading Assistant until their teacher approves it. Once the Grading Assistant evaluates a piece of student writing, the student’s teacher can review its suggested feedback and, if they so desire, add overarching comments. (Teachers who participated in the tool’s beta cohort agreed with the Grading Assistant’s scores and feedback more than nine times out of ten.)

Right now, teachers can use the Grading Assistant to provide scores and feedback on a collection of pre-made argumentative paragraph prompts. They can also create their own argumentative paragraph prompts for the Grading Assistant to evaluate. (Additional AI grading-compatible genres of writing will roll out over the course of the 2024–2025 school year.)

Each pre-made prompt comes with a set of Grading Assistant-supported rubric items that focus on the core elements of an argumentative paragraph, including stating a claim, supporting it with evidence, explaining how the evidence supports the claim, and wrapping up the argument. If there are additional criteria teachers would like to evaluate, they can add them to an assignment’s rubric and score them manually.

NoRedInk’s AI grading tool has already been driving impressive results in classrooms across the country. Of the teachers who participated in the Grading Assistant’s beta cohort, 95% reported that the tool increased the amount of feedback they provided to students—including 50% who said it greatly increased the amount of feedback they provided. The Grading Assistant also cut the amount of time these teachers spent on grading nearly in half.

Reading Mode: Embracing integrated reading and writing

Reading Mode is a collection of features that support key instructional strategies for reading and text-based writing, narrowing the gap between reading comprehension and writing excellence. Students have access to the wide-ranging benefits of Reading Mode as part of any writing assignment that has a source text associated with it, including Quick Writes, Guided Drafts, and Short Response Guided Drafts.

Reading Mode tools are seamlessly integrated into the writing interfaces teachers and students already know and love, but make it easier than ever for students to engage with and comprehend reading materials. The upgrades introduced as part of Reading Mode include:

• Highlighting, text annotation, and reaction stickers: Students can highlight segments of source texts in one of four colors. They can then add notes that are tied to each highlight (not unlike commenting in word processing platforms like Google Docs or taking notes in the margins of a book) and/or attach animated stickers to each highlight. These stickers—an exclamation mark, a question mark, a star, a lightbulb, and a heart—were designed to align with annotation strategies teachers commonly use as part of their reading instruction.
• Paragraph numbering: Every paragraph in source texts is now numbered, making it easy for teachers to reference specific passages in prompts and for students to reference them in their writing.
• Full-screen viewing mode: Students have the option of reading and annotating source text in a full-screen view or in a sidebar that sits next to their writing space.
• Font size flexibility: Students can adjust the font size of source texts based on their personal preferences. (Different grade bands have different default font sizes, ensuring elementary learners always start with a larger font.)
• Improved text-to-speech: Students can easily start and stop the read-aloud of a source text, quickly scroll to a specific location in the read-aloud, and see a visual indicator of which paragraph is currently being read.

Taken together, these upgrades make it easier for every student, regardless of their reading level, to develop critical reading and text-based writing skills. The text annotations, in particular, help students document and organize their thoughts as they prepare to write. They also give teachers a window into each student’s reading and writing processes, enabling them to adjust their instructional strategies for reading and writing, deliver personalized guidance, and identify areas that need additional full-class reinforcement.

Short Response Guided Drafts: Scaffolding the paragraph writing process

At the start of the 2023–2024 school year, NoRedInk released Short Response Guided Drafts as part of our expansion to upper elementary grades. For the 2024–2025 school year, we’ve added Short Response Guided Drafts that are tailored to the needs of learners in Grades 6–12.

These scaffolded writing assignments provide sentence stems, tips, and color-coded examples that model good writing practices associated with each step of building a paragraph. These supports appear directly within students’ writing spaces, rendering them inextricable from the process of drafting a paragraph and encouraging students to reflect on the discrete choices they’re making.

Currently, secondary teachers can use Short Response Guided Drafts for fiction text responses, nonfiction text responses, nonfiction text analysis, and opinion paragraphs. (More genres will become available over the course of the 2024–2025 school year.)

Smoother co-teaching functionality: You asked, we responded

In response to feedback from NoRedInk users, we enabled teachers to grant other teachers or support staff access to specific classes in their NoRedInk accounts (instead of having to grant every co-teacher access to every class that’s affiliated with a single account). This will ensure that co-teachers are able to view and manage only the classes they need to from their own NoRedInk accounts.

More to come from your partner in ELA instruction

When paired with the core features of NoRedInk’s comprehensive writing platform, these new updates will equip teachers to deliver stronger, more consistent instruction that promotes the development of essential critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. Stay tuned throughout the year for more exciting updates about the future of ELA instruction.

Sign up for free today to start building better writers and critical thinkers in your classroom!

Thomas collaborates with colleagues from across NoRedInk to craft stories that illustrate how NoRedInk ​​builds stronger writers. He holds a BA in Religious Studies from Occidental College.

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