We have all done it, starting with a blank page of paper knowing we have x” amount of time to write an essay or report of a significant length and getting started is the hardest point. This is very true for this blog post. Therefore I asked around the office how to go about starting an important essay or report. The feedback we received back was as follows, in no particular order:
Break down everything
An essay structure is very basic – introduction, body and conclusion. But this can be broken down further into a bulleted list. Once you have the key points down, create content around each bullet to break down your argument. This will make it easier to write and will also make formatting smoother when it comes to putting the essay together.
Separate sections, separate pages
The most daunting prospect of writing a 10,000 word report is actually writing 10,000 words. The psychological effect of this can be daunting and may add unnecessary pressure. One way around this is to break everything up into separate sections so each section is a much simpler 1-3,000 word section, which is a lot easier to manage. When it comes to formatting you can add in all the sections in the right order and like magic your 10,000 report has been written in smaller sections.
Free writing
A not very common writing technique is free writing. Instead of breaking things down and having sections, free writing is just starting with a blank page and throwing every idea on the page at once. Once your mind is spent on creating loads of ideas, you will have created the body of your essay, without much effort at all. Of course, after this the more time intensive part of editing, refining and layout begins, but you’ll already have your main ideas down on the page, making it easier to add additional content later on.
some very good tips there. i think its important to work out a structure for writing an essay but also it depends on your motivation you have on a particular day.
To be honest i am a fan of Free writing its certainly the easiest for me. it may not work for everyone and also may not be the best option, but it depends on the individuals preference. Last minutre cramming for me dosent work. I much prefer to have it all worked out long before any essay is due
I am not a fan of last minute cramming. i would rather work out a structure and be ready for the essay
I never even thought of breaking the essay down into smaller more manageable sections, what a good and simple idea!
Many good points raised here, i must admit i prefer to break my essay into sections which takes the pressure off having to write lengthy essays, that being said i have used most of the points raised here, as each tip comes in very handy depending on the project you are undertaking
i would just like to add that getting a good rest before takingany essay or exam is very very important. if your mind is fresh you think more clearly and this benefits any project you undertake
I have always mind-mapped my essays before writing them. Even my dissertation. That then gave me sections I could look into and an idea of what areas I needed to be researching further.
Great tips here, I like to brain storm then try to formulate a plan by ‘signposting’ – writing a small paragraph to illustrate each point :o)
I find a big brain storm/spider gram gets everything out then write a paragraph or two on each point then bring it all to a conclusion. OOHHHH and have something to eat first! A nice full tummy is good. 😉
Another tip would be to give yourself time away from the report/essay if you feel yourself stressing – this leads to a negative mindset and often the dreaded ‘I can’t do this’ by walking away and allowing time to clear your thoughts you will be better able to tackle the report/essay and may find that the ideas and essay structure flow easily.
Great article. I will definitely use these points next time, as I find it so hard to start my essays.
some great points for studying, will use some of these, good work.
Actually used these points on the last assignment I did, They were a great help, got it done much quicker then usual.
I am useless at essays but would definitely try some of these net time I write one. Although, I think I roughly do ‘Break down everything’ instinctively. Must remember this blog for my next essay!
Great tips!
Great tips as its been a long time since I,ve been at school! lol x