Essay Writing: Pointers to a Successful Project

Introduction

In the introduction you are telling the reader what they are about to be presented with.  It should function as a ‘roadmap’ to guide the reader through your essay.  State your answer to the question at the outset.  Summarise the central thrust of your argument and explain the order in which you set it out.  You could define or include some of the theories we have discussed in the module.  Make it clear to the reader that you are aware of the particular subjects/themes/ideas you are about to address. If you are using specific terms you will need to present a broad definition of them and suggest how they will be useful for your essay.

Argument

This is the main body of your essay.  A good way of tackling an essay is to make a list of the key points you want to address; then place them in an order that seems to flow and make sense in narrative terms.  A clear and coherent argument is one of the first things a reader will look for.  Make sure that your essay fulfils its own ambitions and that it answers the question. Make sure you underpin your analysis with a wide range of examples that support your discussion.  Remember to include the dates of all images, objects and texts discussed in your essay – this will help you to establish their chronology.

Reading

In building an essay project, your first step should be to consult any reading lists or course material you have been given.  Look at any books that might be relevant.  Use your library catalogue to find further materials.  You can also use online academic databases to find books and articles.  There is some good academic content on the internet, but it is better to use published books and articles than websites.  In your reading, keep an eye out for quotations that support your assertions and make a note of exactly where you found them – you will need to reference these sources at the end. 

Conclusion

Your conclusion should mirror the introduction.  Briefly recapitulate your main points.  Run through the main thrust of your argument, pointing out the key areas of discussion.

Bibliography

In your bibliography you must cite all of the sources used in your essay.  List any articles, magazines or books you have looked at or found relevant.  There are various systems of referencing, but in each case the reference should include the author’s name; date of publication; title; place of publication; and name of the publisher.  

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