Writing Tips

Tip 1: The Thesis

Make sure you have a good, clear thesis. This is a statement that appears very early in the essay and summarizes what point you are going to make. The more thoughtful, the better.

Weak: Jeanne Wakatsuki-Houston wrote Farewell to Manzanar for many reasons.

Better: Jeanne Wakatsuki-Houston wrote Farewell to Manzanar in order to document the horrors of the internment camps.

Best: Jeanne Wakatsuki-Houston wrote Farewell to Manzanar in order to document the horrors of the internment camps. Her purpose in doing so is to warn readers what happened in hopes of keeping it from happening again.

Tip 2: The Evidence

It is also best to make sure that every paragraph has a sentence that links the paragraph back to the thesis. For example, "One incident that Jeanne discusses that is designed to illustrate the horrors of the internment camps is..."

All of the evidence you present, particularly in a short paper, should be clearly and directly tied to your argument in this way. Avoid unnecessary summarization of the book. You may assume I have read the book.

Tip 3: Mechanics

Mechanics are important. Not only is a well-written, error-free paper easier to read, it also sends the message that you tried to do your best on the assignment.

Keep a particular eye out for very fixable mistakes like errors of fact, spelling errors, etc.

Tip 4: Creativity

Finding a thoughtful and unique way to approach the material is good. You might, for example, bring your own experience into your discussion. Your professors are grading many assignments, and you want to set yourself apart from the pack.

Tip 5: Intimidation

Your essay writing should not be much different than your conversational style. Avoid trying to make your prose sound fancy just because you happen to be writing an essay. In particular, avoid dramatic but empty generalizations. For example: "Jeanne locquaciously advises us that her pride in her Japanese heritage is undimmed by the massive upheaval her family went through, and she knows she will persevere."