how to improve essay writing skills in english

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How to Make Your Essay Better: 7 Tips for Stronger Essays

By Krystal N. Craiker

Essay writing doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few tips, you can improve your writing skills for any type of academic essay.

How to Write Better Essays

7 tips on how to make your essay better, how to become a better essay writer.

The best way to sum up how to write better essays is, “Make sure you’re answering the question.”

This sounds obvious, but you would be surprised how many students struggle with this.

From not understanding the prompt to poor research skills to off-topic body paragraphs, it’s easy for an essay to derail.

We’ve got seven tips for writing better essays that will help you avoid common mistakes and craft the best essays possible.

Here are our top tips for improving your essay writing skills.

Understand the Prompt or Research Question

The first step in your writing process is to fully understand the essay topic. If your professor gave you a prompt for your academic essay, spend some time analyzing it.

First, take note of whether you’re writing an expository or persuasive essay. The tone, structure, and word choice will differ between essay types.

Pay close attention to the wording of the prompt.

If your teacher wants you to “analyze” the effects of new technology in World War I, but you turn in a descriptive overview of the technology, you are not answering the question.

If they have given you a topic but no prompt, you’ll need to create a guiding question for your research.

Be specific in what you are trying to research, or you’ll end up overwhelmed with a topic that is too big in scope.

“Symbolism in modern literature” is too broad for a term paper, but “How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use symbolism in The Great Gatsby ?” is an achievable topic.

Take Excellent Notes

Once you understand exactly what your essay is about, you can begin the research phase. Create a strong note-taking system.

Write down any idea or quote you might want to use. Cite every note properly to save time on your citations and to avoid accidental plagiarism.

Once you have gathered your research, organize your notes into categories. This will help you plan the structure of your essay.

You’ll likely find that some of your research doesn’t fit into your essay once you start writing. That’s okay—it’s better to have too much information to support your argument than too little.

Write a Strong Thesis Statement

Possibly the most important step in essay writing is to craft a strong thesis statement. A thesis statement is a brief—usually single-sentence—explanation of what your essay is about.

The thesis statement guides the entire essay: every point you make should support your thesis.

A strong thesis is specific and long enough to address the major points of your essay.

In a persuasive or argumentative essay, your thesis should clearly establish the argument you are making.

Make an Outline

Once you have all your research, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How do you turn the information into a cohesive essay?

Rather than writing an essay with no roadmap, an outline will keep you on track. An outline helps you organize your thoughts, plan your arguments, and sort your research.

A good outline saves you time, too! You can compile the relevant evidence in your notes before writing, so you don’t have to find that specific quote in the middle of essay writing.

An outline will also stop you from reading your finished essay and realizing you went completely off track.

With an outline, you can avoid finding paragraphs that don’t support your thesis right before you submit the essay.

Craft a Great Introduction

An academic essay needs a strong introductory paragraph.

The introduction is the first impression of your essay. It prepares the reader for what’s coming and gets them excited to read your paper.

A good introduction has three things:

• A hook (e.g. insightful statement, quote, interesting fact)
• Brief background information about the topic
• A thesis statement

Using this formula will help you write a strong introduction for your essay.

Have Original Ideas and Interpretations

The best academic writing advice a professor ever gave me was, “You’ve shown me what other people have said about the topic. I want to know what you think about the topic.”

Even a fact-heavy or data-heavy essay needs original ideas and interpretations. For every piece of information you cite, whether you quote or paraphrase it , offer original commentary.

Focus on insights, new interpretations, or even questions that you have. These are all ways to provide original ideas in your essay.

Proofread for Readability

A good essay is a proofread essay.

Readability, or how easy something is to read, has many factors. Spelling and grammar are important, but so is sentence structure, word choice , and other stylistic features.

Academic essays should be readable without being too simple. In general, aim for a readability score that is close to your grade level in school.

There are several ways to check readability scores, including using ProWritingAid’s Readability Report.

The quickest way to increase readability is to fix grammar and spelling mistakes . You can also raise the readability score by using more complex and compound-complex sentences.

ProWritingAid can offer suggestions on how to improve your essay and take it to the next level.

Our free essay checker will check for spelling and grammar errors, plus several other types of writing mistakes.

The essay checker will offer you suggestions on sentence length and passive voice.

It will help you trim the excess words that bog down your writing by analyzing your sticky sentences and overused words.

The essay checker is here to help you turn in an error-free essay.

Want to improve your essay writing skills?

Use prowritingaid.

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Krystal N. Craiker

Krystal N. Craiker is the Writing Pirate, an indie romance author and blog manager at ProWritingAid. She sails the seven internet seas, breaking tropes and bending genres. She has a background in anthropology and education, which brings fresh perspectives to her romance novels. When she’s not daydreaming about her next book or article, you can find her cooking gourmet gluten-free cuisine, laughing at memes, and playing board games. Krystal lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband, child, and basset hound.

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Essay and dissertation writing skills

Planning your essay

Writing your introduction

Structuring your essay

• Writing essays in science subjects
• Brief video guides to support essay planning and writing
• Writing extended essays and dissertations
• Planning your dissertation writing time

Structuring your dissertation

• Top tips for writing longer pieces of work

Advice on planning and writing essays and dissertations

University essays differ from school essays in that they are less concerned with what you know and more concerned with how you construct an argument to answer the question. This means that the starting point for writing a strong essay is to first unpick the question and to then use this to plan your essay before you start putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).

A really good starting point for you are these short, downloadable Tips for Successful Essay Writing and Answering the Question resources. Both resources will help you to plan your essay, as well as giving you guidance on how to distinguish between different sorts of essay questions. 

You may find it helpful to watch this seven-minute video on six tips for essay writing which outlines how to interpret essay questions, as well as giving advice on planning and structuring your writing:

Different disciplines will have different expectations for essay structure and you should always refer to your Faculty or Department student handbook or course Canvas site for more specific guidance.

However, broadly speaking, all essays share the following features:

Essays need an introduction to establish and focus the parameters of the discussion that will follow. You may find it helpful to divide the introduction into areas to demonstrate your breadth and engagement with the essay question. You might define specific terms in the introduction to show your engagement with the essay question; for example, ‘This is a large topic which has been variously discussed by many scientists and commentators. The principal tension is between the views of X and Y who define the main issues as…’ Breadth might be demonstrated by showing the range of viewpoints from which the essay question could be considered; for example, ‘A variety of factors including economic, social and political, influence A and B. This essay will focus on the social and economic aspects, with particular emphasis on…..’

Watch this two-minute video to learn more about how to plan and structure an introduction:

The main body of the essay should elaborate on the issues raised in the introduction and develop an argument(s) that answers the question. It should consist of a number of self-contained paragraphs each of which makes a specific point and provides some form of evidence to support the argument being made. Remember that a clear argument requires that each paragraph explicitly relates back to the essay question or the developing argument.

• Conclusion: An essay should end with a conclusion that reiterates the argument in light of the evidence you have provided; you shouldn’t use the conclusion to introduce new information.
• References: You need to include references to the materials you’ve used to write your essay. These might be in the form of footnotes, in-text citations, or a bibliography at the end. Different systems exist for citing references and different disciplines will use various approaches to citation. Ask your tutor which method(s) you should be using for your essay and also consult your Department or Faculty webpages for specific guidance in your discipline. 

Essay writing in science subjects

If you are writing an essay for a science subject you may need to consider additional areas, such as how to present data or diagrams. This five-minute video gives you some advice on how to approach your reading list, planning which information to include in your answer and how to write for your scientific audience – the video is available here:

A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.

Short videos to support your essay writing skills

There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:

• Approaching different types of essay questions  
• Structuring your essay  
• Writing an introduction  
• Making use of evidence in your essay writing  
• Writing your conclusion

Extended essays and dissertations

Longer pieces of writing like extended essays and dissertations may seem like quite a challenge from your regular essay writing. The important point is to start with a plan and to focus on what the question is asking. A PDF providing further guidance on planning Humanities and Social Science dissertations is available to download.

Planning your time effectively

Try not to leave the writing until close to your deadline, instead start as soon as you have some ideas to put down onto paper. Your early drafts may never end up in the final work, but the work of committing your ideas to paper helps to formulate not only your ideas, but the method of structuring your writing to read well and conclude firmly.

Although many students and tutors will say that the introduction is often written last, it is a good idea to begin to think about what will go into it early on. For example, the first draft of your introduction should set out your argument, the information you have, and your methods, and it should give a structure to the chapters and sections you will write. Your introduction will probably change as time goes on but it will stand as a guide to your entire extended essay or dissertation and it will help you to keep focused.

The structure of  extended essays or dissertations will vary depending on the question and discipline, but may include some or all of the following:

• The background information to - and context for - your research. This often takes the form of a literature review.
• Explanation of the focus of your work.
• Explanation of the value of this work to scholarship on the topic.
• List of the aims and objectives of the work and also the issues which will not be covered because they are outside its scope.

The main body of your extended essay or dissertation will probably include your methodology, the results of research, and your argument(s) based on your findings.

The conclusion is to summarise the value your research has added to the topic, and any further lines of research you would undertake given more time or resources. 

Tips on writing longer pieces of work

Approaching each chapter of a dissertation as a shorter essay can make the task of writing a dissertation seem less overwhelming. Each chapter will have an introduction, a main body where the argument is developed and substantiated with evidence, and a conclusion to tie things together. Unlike in a regular essay, chapter conclusions may also introduce the chapter that will follow, indicating how the chapters are connected to one another and how the argument will develop through your dissertation.

For further guidance, watch this two-minute video on writing longer pieces of work . 

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How to Improve Essay Writing

Last Updated: December 28, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 43,667 times.

Do your teachers always mark up your essays with red ink? Are you eager to learn how to express yourself clearly and effectively? If so, there are plenty of steps you can take to improve your essay writing skills. Improve your grammar, refine your style, and learn how to structure a well-organized essay. Since academic essays are especially tricky, learn the ins and outs of formal, scholarly writing. Be sure to read as much as possible; seeing how other authors use language can improve your own writing.

Improving Your Grammar and Style

• For example, while writing, you might not know whether to use “who” or “whom,” so you check the rule online. You’d use “who” for a person doing an action (called a subject), and “whom” for someone who gets something done to them (called an object). “Who called you,” and “Whom did you call” are grammatically correct.
• Find a general guide on grammar at https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/grammar/index.html .
• If you’re a student, see if your school has a writing lab. If so, they’ll have useful resources on grammar and tutors who can help you improve basic writing skills.

• That said, some exceptions apply. If you’re discussing a scientific study, “The subjects were divided into control and experimental groups,” is better than “Researchers divided the subjects into control and experimental groups.” This is because passive voice emphasizes the object of the action rather than the subject. In scientific writing, the object is more important than the subject.

• For example, “The author of the selection establishes the foundation of the work’s controlling metaphor in the initial stanza,” is packed with unnecessary words. A cleaner version of this example could be, “The author introduces the poem’s controlling metaphor in the first stanza.”
• Instead of “The animal sleeps during the day and is active at nighttime,” write “The animal is nocturnal.”
• Rather than "The fox ran very fast," write "The fox sprinted."
• In the sentence, “The argument is compelling and convincing,” compelling and convincing are close enough in meaning. Using one would get the point across, but using both is repetitive.

• Keep in mind the clause that follows a semicolon needs to be a complete sentence. It should also continue the idea conveyed in the clause before the semicolon. Proper use would be, “The platter dates to 1790; examples of British transfer-ware from this period are rare.”
• Use punctuation strategically. A complicated sentence, like this one, with too much, or confusing, or misplaced, punctuation is hard, for most readers, to follow. Aim instead for clear, easy-to-read writing.

• For example, “The platter dates to 1790. It is in pristine condition. There are no nicks or cracks,” are choppy and repetitive.
• Better phrasing would be, “An impressed back-stamp indicates that the platter was made in 1790. With no nicks, cracks, or discoloration, its condition is pristine; few pieces of this age and quality exist.”
• Keep in mind repetitive sentences aren’t necessarily choppy. For instance, “Since the platter has a maker’s mark, accurately determining its age is possible. Since it has no nicks or marks, it is in excellent condition,” are repetitive sentences, even if they’re not short and choppy.

Using Academic Language

• For example, instead of, “I think it’s pretty crazy how the artist made the painting so detailed,” write, “The artist achieves an impressive level of detail.”
• Note that you can use the first person and contractions in less formal essays, such as an autobiographical sketch or college application essay. However, your writing still shouldn’t be too casual. “I found myself questioning my assumptions” is fine but, in most cases, “I was like wow I didn’t know what I was talking about” is too casual.

• Say you’re writing an essay about school uniforms. “Uniforms are good because they make it easier to get ready in the morning,” might be a fair point, but it's not the strongest argument you could make. Backing up your point with objective evidence would be more convincing.
• On the other hand, “According to a 2017 study, schools reported an average of 44% fewer disciplinary referrals the year after implementing mandatory uniforms,” cites a specific, concrete fact.
• Additionally, use specific quantities whenever possible. In this example, “an average of 44% fewer disciplinary referrals,” is more effective than “a significant decrease.” [5] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

• Learning how to properly use subject-specific terminology can help you express yourself clearly and effectively. Academic writing is a dialogue, and learning the language of a scholarly dialogue is essential.
• For instance, if you’re writing a literary analysis, you might discuss how an author makes a comparison. While technically correct, the word “comparison” isn’t as precise as literary terms such as “metaphor” or “simile.”

• Using convoluted jargon or big words just for the sake of it will make your writing clunky. Furthermore, you’ll lose credibility if you misuse a complex word or technical term.
• For instance, “By utilizing efficacious examples, the author elucidates an irrefutable argument” is verbose. Simpler phrasing would be, “The author presents a convincing argument by using effective examples.”

Mastering the Writing Process

• Note that an essay prompt’s keywords have distinct meanings. Analyze, for example, doesn’t mean to describe; it means to pull apart and examine something’s structure.
• Suppose you have to analyze an argument. Your essay needs identify the argument's rhetorical elements, such as pathos (appeals to emotion), logos (employing reason or logic), or ethos (relying on authority or credibility). After breaking down the argument's structure, you'll then need to explain how the author uses these devices to make their case.

• Remember to check your sources’ credibility. If you’re writing about a former president, find the biography scholars consider most authoritative. Check the authoritative biography’s footnotes and references, which will help you track down more reputable sources.
• You won't conduct thorough research if you’re writing an essay for a test. Instead, read the sources provided with the exam. For example, if a literature essay test requires you to analyze an excerpt, read the passage carefully.

• For instance, “Schools should implement mandatory uniforms because they reduce disciplinary issues, help students focus on learning, and promote school spirit,” is clear and specific.
• The thesis, “Mandatory uniforms are beneficial, so schools should implement them,” makes a claim, but “beneficial” is vague. It doesn’t convey why uniforms are good, so it’s not a strong thesis.

• For the next Roman numerals, write the subtopics, citations, and other details that you’ll cover in each body paragraph.
• In the following example, Roman number II. would be an essay section, and letters A. through D. are body paragraphs that each focus on a sub-topic: II. Uniforms reduce disciplinary issues   A. 44% decrease in detentions after introducing uniforms (Smith, 2017)   B. Suspension decreased by 60% (Smith, 2017)   C. Absenteeism and tardiness decreased (Pew, 2013)   D. 66% of students report less bullying (Ohio Board of Education, 2016)

• Topic sentence: School uniforms may reduce the number of serious behavioral problems.
• Explain: Evidence suggests dressing alike lowers peer pressure, promotes discipline, and prevents the display of controversial or offensive imagery.
• Evidence: For example, according to the Ohio Board of Education, schools that introduced uniforms reported 44% fewer disciplinary referrals, such as detentions and suspensions. Furthermore, 66% of surveyed students said they witnessed fewer bullying incidents after they started wearing uniforms.
• Link: These findings suggest that implementing uniforms is an effective way to foster a disciplined school environment.

• A counterargument could be, “Opponents claim that mandatory uniforms stifle self-expression and lower self-esteem. Although uniforms do prevent personal expressions of style, studies show they actually improve confidence and encourage the expression of ideas. Rather than harm self-image, research suggests that uniforms positively impact mental health. In a 10-year Oxford University study, a majority of students reported that wearing uniforms boosts their self-esteem. With a level playing field, they worry less about choosing clothes that fit the norm.”

• First, revise your essay’s content. Check for unclear language, unorganized spots, awkward sentences, and weak word choices. Next, proofread your work and fix any spelling or grammatical errors.
• For important essays, like a term paper or an admissions essay, have someone read your work and offer feedback.
• In general, try to leave a day for edits at the bare minimum. For a big research paper, scheduling a week or more is ideal.
• For a quick, paragraph-long assignment that’s due the next day, you might only need 15 or 20 minutes for revisions. If you're taking a timed essay test, set aside the last 5 to 10 minutes to check your work.

Expert Q&A

• To improve your writing, read as much as you can. Reading a mix of fiction, newspaper articles, and scholarly works will help you learn new ways to structure sentences, refine your grammar skills, and improve your vocabulary. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• You might not have to conduct thorough research or develop a scholarly thesis if you’re writing an informal essay. However, basic elements such as strong word choices, varied sentence structures, and concise language still apply. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/passive-voice/
• ↑ https://slc.berkeley.edu/nine-basic-ways-improve-your-style-academic-writing
• ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/academic_style.pdf
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/sciences/
• ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/vocabulary.pdf
• ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/Essay_writing_process_accessible_2015.pdf
• ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/sites/default/files/super%20essay.pdf
• ↑ https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/developing-thesis
• ↑ https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/content/paragraph-structure

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How to Improve Essay Writing Skills

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If you've been told time and time again that you express great ideas in your essay writing but your writing needs polishing, you aren't alone. The following tips will help improve your writing skills and turn you into a great writer.

Avoid repetition: It's an essay killer

Though it may seem difficult when writing a five-page term paper on a single idea or character, avoiding repetition is essential to improving your writing skills. When you use the same words ad nauseam, your reader views it as a sign of laziness. Here are three tactics that will help eliminate wordiness and eradicate repetitive words and phrases:

• The simplest approach to improving your writing skills is to eliminate the repetitive word or phrase from your essay.
• If you feel you need to keep the idea, replace the word or phrase with something similar. This may mean substituting a pronoun for a proper name, such as he instead of George; or it may mean searching for an alternative. Use a thesaurus only to remind you of words you already know but have temporarily forgotten. Don't select unfamiliar words that merely sound good; this risky path often leads to the use of words with different underlying meanings, which ultimately can hurt you more than the original repetition.
• The last of our techniques for improving your writing skills is more difficult, but usually the most effective. Begin by crossing out the offending repetition. Next, circle key words in the sentence (skip words such as a, of, while, it, etc.). Now craft a new sentence that retains the circled words but discards the repeat ones. This may require you to add more ideas to round out the thought, but our term paper editors have found that expanding on your new sentence in this manner will improve your paper.

Active voice: Breathe life into your essay writing

In order to improve writing skills, we encourage students to write in the active voice . For those of you who have misplaced your grade school grammar book, this means that the subject of the sentence performs the action; it does not receive the action. Compare the following examples:

• Tom tossed the ball (active)
• The ball was tossed by Tom (passive)

To find the dreaded passive voice, look for a "to be" verb (is, am, are, was, were, be, being, or been) followed by a past participle (often a verb ending with -ed). Ask yourself who is performing the action (the verb). Move that person or subject in front of the verb and make the necessary grammatical changes.

Trite phrases: Banish the banal

In order to improve your writing skills, force yourself to delete all idioms and clichés. Your reader wants original thoughts, not processed or canned sentiments. Yes, this means you must replace those mundane words with something clever of your own. Reduce—perhaps to zero—the number of similes and metaphors, particularly if they are common ones.

There may be instances in which you have devised the perfect comparison, one that highlights the essence of your argument, but chances are that an experienced reader won't be as impressed with your creativity as you are. While certain types of writing (advertising, speeches, etc.) may call for this, such phrases are anathema in formal writing. Eliminate these to improve your writing skills.

Literary present: Just do it

When writing about literature, you must write in the literary present. Your natural inclination will be to write:

The river symbolized freedom and enlightenment for Huckleberry Finn.

But the literary present demands that you write:

The river symbolizes freedom and enlightenment for Huckleberry Finn.

A key tip to improving your writing skills is that everything should be in the present tense. It doesn't matter that you read the book last week, or that the author wrote it a century ago. Write about the characters and events as though they exist in the here and now. This is one of those conventions that is just easier to accept than to question.

Mechanics: Sweating the small stuff is important when improving your writing skills

Always run a spell check. It only takes a moment, and it will save you the embarrassment of turning in an analysis of Julius Caesar in which you consistently misspell Caesar. Pay attention to the suggested replacements when editing your essay, however, as these canned wizards do not always understand your meaning. Even Bill Gates can't turn "it" into "in" or "you're" into "your" for you, so you also need to comb through the paper carefully with your own eyes to find every error before handing it in. Brilliant essays receive lower grades if simple mistakes are left unchanged.

Ask for a second opinion

If you're thinking that this seems like a lot to remember, you're right. But focusing on one or two areas at a time will help you steadily improve your writing skills.

Image source: condesign/Pixabay.com

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A (Very) Simple Way to Improve Your Writing

• Mark Rennella

It’s called the “one-idea rule” — and any level of writer can use it.

The “one idea” rule is a simple concept that can help you sharpen your writing, persuade others by presenting your argument in a clear, concise, and engaging way. What exactly does the rule say?

• Every component of a successful piece of writing should express only one idea.
• In persuasive writing, your “one idea” is often the argument or belief you are presenting to the reader. Once you identify what that argument is, the “one-idea rule” can help you develop, revise, and connect the various components of your writing.
• For instance, let’s say you’re writing an essay. There are three components you will be working with throughout your piece: the title, the paragraphs, and the sentences.
• Each of these parts should be dedicated to just one idea. The ideas are not identical, of course, but they’re all related. If done correctly, the smaller ideas (in sentences) all build (in paragraphs) to support the main point (suggested in the title).

Most advice about writing looks like a long laundry list of “do’s and don’ts.” These lists can be helpful from time to time, but they’re hard to remember … and, therefore, hard to depend on when you’re having trouble putting your thoughts to paper. During my time in academia, teaching composition at the undergraduate and graduate levels, I saw many people struggle with this.

• MR Mark Rennella is Associate Editor at HBP and has published two books, Entrepreneurs, Managers, and Leaders and The Boston Cosmopolitans .  

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8 Tips to Write Better Essays in English

Learning a foreign language is an overwhelming experience, especially if it’s one of the most widely spoken languages in the world – English.

Many people are under the impression that learning to read and speak in English is enough without realizing that written English skills are an equally vital asset to have.

From improving academics to boosting career prospects – the ability to write in English not only lets you communicate and express yourself better in today’s globalized world but also makes you more confident.

An effective way to improve your writing skills is to write essays. Wondering where to begin? We bring you eight useful tips to write better essays in English.

1. Keep a Vocabulary Notebook

Using the right vocabulary is an essential element of writing essays. When you make efforts to expand your vocabulary, you will be able to pick accurate words to take your writing to the next level.

Instead of coming across new words and forgetting about them, it’s a good idea to make a note of them in your vocabulary notebook. Doing this helps you remember the meanings of new words and you can also refer to it while writing essays.

So, give yourself a target to learn at least ten new words every day, which you can jot down in your diary and take baby steps in building a strong vocabulary.

2. Refer to Credible Sources

Research forms the first step in writing any kind of essay. The stronger your research, the better is the quality of your essay.

At a time when we have access to a wide range of data, it’s important to evaluate research sources carefully and only refer to credible ones. For example, Wikipedia is not a reliable source and should not be attributed to while writing essays.

Take the effort to read through published journals, research studies, scholarly papers, academic databases, and encyclopedias published within the last 10-15 years. It’s also important to assess the credibility of the author while evaluating the source.

3. Draft a Basic Outline

Once you’ve done your research, don’t rush to write. Take a moment to draft a basic outline for your essay and organize your research and findings.

“Is that necessary,” you ask? Very much.

Working on an outline lets you approach the essay in an organized manner. It serves as the skeleton of your paper while ensuring you’re not missing out on any information and that your points flow logically.

Most essays are categorized into – introduction, body, and conclusion.

The introduction is where you introduce the topic and give context. The body paragraphs need to include your arguments and research methodology (if any). The conclusion needs to reiterate the thesis statement and tie all the points together.

4. Hook the Reader

With attention spans getting shorter with time, it’s become all the more important to start with a bang and hook the reader from the beginning to ensure they are invested in your writing.

Essay hooks refer to the first one or two sentences of your essay which have the power to make or break the reader’s interest. The key is to write a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and reels them in.

From an alarming statistic and relevant quote to using humor and asking a rhetoric question – there are various tactics you can employ to keep the reader engaged.

If you’re unable to think of an impactful essay hook, don’t waste too much time on it. Finish the rest of your essay and come back to write a compelling hook later.

5. Use the Pomodoro Technique

It’s not easy to write an essay in one go, especially if it’s not in your first language.

A smart way to approach essay writing is to use the Pomodoro technique. This technique asks you to set a timer for 25 minutes to finish your task in question and then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles of repeating this, you get to take an extended 20-minute break.

So, start with breaking down the assignment into smaller tasks such as research, outlining, writing the different paragraphs, citing references and proofreading. You can then set the timer, start working on the essay as per the technique and track your progress.

Using this technique keeps distractions at bay and helps you stay more focused.

6. Pay Attention to Grammar Rules

You may raise interesting points in your essay, but poor grammar disrupts the reading experience and should be avoided at all costs.

Be careful when adding punctuations, check your sentence formations, avoid passive voice as much as possible and know the difference between adjectives, adverbs, nouns and verbs.

So  abide by grammar rules to deliver a well-written and cohesive essay.

7. Write with Clarity

You might be tempted to use complex metaphors and jargons to impress the reader, but the truth is, none of that guarantees “good” writing.

One of the most important ingredients of effective writing is clarity. You don’t want to leave the reader confused and puzzled after reading your essay. So, use simple words, stop beating around the bush and explain concepts with the help of examples because clear writing always wins.

8. Reread the Essay

Finally, make it a point to proofread your essay (multiple times) to ensure you have covered all the aspects, cited references accurately and not made any silly errors.

It’s a good idea to read your essay out loud so you’re able to identify errors and awkwardly formed sentences with ease. You should also get a friend or family member to read your essay, to spot mistakes or discrepancies that you may have overlooked.

You may also like:

• I Don’t Understand, Do You?
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35 comments

Thanks a lot all we can derive from reading is the technique to write with clarity, good research and involvement of readers in writing.

Thank a lot dear EnglishClub, it’s help me a lot

I think it is very good site for learn essay writing

As a teacher trainer this contribution is helpful

Thanks for the tips! I’ll have an essay tomorrow and this will surlely prepare me!

Thank you so much

Thanks Please I will like to know more

thank you so much for your amazing informations

encyclopedias

encyclopaedias

Nice one but I don’t understand yet

Knowledge supporter is who u are, keep d good work nd ur reward is from God nd thanks.

thanks alot for your tips…your tips will help me alot while examss!!!

Thank you so much for information ☺️

Thank you ☺️

Thank you 💯💯💯💯💯💯

My hobby is home garden

ur intentinon and thoughts was very nce its useful to somny pepole to learn english tysomuch adela belin

Thanks you for helping

This did help a lot! Thank you very much 🥰

Good tips, I should give it a try, after all, we all improve by exercising hard so I’ll just do the same thing, but right now I gotta focus on what matters, and what I need now is to read as much as I can to know how to spell the words right. Is grammar so important in this task, I mean can’t I just pick the things up because of my experience in listening skill ?

Thanks for the information!

This is a nice explanation ,,,,,proud of you!

Is very interesting for me I really apreicete you help

Thanks so much for these useful tips!! Now, I need to start preparing my essay (“starting” has been always the stone on my way :$)

Please, what is the difference between an essay and an article?

Are they same?

Thanks in advance,

Thanks & best regards English Club

Helpful updated tips to share with our students!! thankssss

I want to know if it is only at the University or if we may take the course online.

Thank you verry much for important advices

thank for your key points, this is really helpful

Thank you and best wishes,

Very pragmatic and helpful essay. Thank so much English club

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Comprehensive Guide on How to Tell if AI Wrote an Essay with Practical Tips and Detection Methods

• August 14, 2024
• Tricks and Tips
• academic integrity
• AI essay detection
• AI tools for essay writing
• AI writing characteristics
• AI-generated content
• ethical implications of AI in writing
• identifying AI writing patterns
• manual evaluation techniques
• plagiarism checkers with AI detection
• technological solutions for AI detection

Did you know that some AI systems can generate entire essays that are nearly indistinguishable from those written by humans? With the rise of AI tools in writing, it’s becoming increasingly important to tell whether a piece of content is human-authored or AI-generated. Why does this matter? From academic integrity to ethical concerns, distinguishing between the two is more important than ever. In this article, you’ll learn the basics of AI-generated content , how to identify its unique characteristics, and discover tools and techniques for detection. Stay with us to become adept at spotting AI-written essays!

Table of Contents

Introducing the Basics

What is ai-generated content.

AI-generated content refers to text created by artificial intelligence systems. These applications use machine learning algorithms to develop essays, articles, and other written materials. One of the most popular tools for this purpose is ChatGPT , which uses vast amounts of data to generate human-like text. For example, students often use ChatGPT to assist with writing tasks, producing work that appears professional and coherent. Other common AI tools include QuillBot and Jasper AI.

Why It Matters

Understanding whether an essay was written by AI is important for several reasons. Ethical considerations come into play as submitting AI-generated work as one’s own can be considered dishonest. Academic integrity is impacted as well, as the goal of education is to cultivate original thought and understanding. If students aren’t producing their own work, they aren’t learning or developing critical thinking skills.

What’s more, the real and authenticity are invaluable. When someone presents AI-generated content as their own, it could have real-world implications. For instance, college officials are increasingly concerned about students using AI for college application essays. A student using AI may not truly reflect their abilities and personality, leading to admissions decisions based on misinformation.

How Can You Identify AI-Written Essays?

As utilizing AI in writing becomes more common, understanding how to differentiate between AI-generated and human-written content is essential. Let’s look into the specific characteristics that can help you identify essays written by artificial intelligence.

Consistency and Style

One of the telltale signs of AI-written essays is the consistent tone and style throughout the text. While this might appear beneficial, it often lacks the personal details that make human writing unique. According to experts from CNN , AI-generated essays can be overly formal or overly simplistic, making them stand out. Fundamentally, these essays might read well but feel somewhat impersonal, as if they lack the writer’s voice.

Common Patterns and Errors

AI tools like ChatGPT often exhibit certain repetitive patterns. You might come across redundant phrases or syntactic structures recycled throughout the essay. This uniformity can be a red flag. Also, NY Times reports that AI-generated content sometimes includes unusual word choices and sentence patterns, making it evident that a non-human entity authored it. AI can struggle with complex topics, offering only a superficial treatment instead of the in-depth analysis a human writer would provide.

Content and Creativity

Human essays are often enriched with personal anecdotes and unique perspectives that AI simply cannot replicate. You’ll find that AI-written content tends to adhere to formulaic structures and predictable arguments. There’s a noticeable lack of creative flair and innovative ideas, as Forbes emphasizes . This mechanical approach can make an AI-authored essay seem flat and unengaging.

Tools and Techniques for Detection

Manual evaluation.

Manually assessing an essay’s origin requires a keen eye on several fronts. Start by cross-referencing the essay with previous works of the student. This method allows you to identify inconsistencies in quality, tone, or style. Maya Bodnick, a Harvard student, conducted an interesting experiment where professors graded essays written by ChatGPT by comparing them with her work. The results varied, demonstrating that such inconsistencies could hint at AI involvement.

Depth and originality are other important aspects. AI-generated essays often veer towards predictability and lack detailed understanding. For example, keeping an eye out for overly simplistic language or superficial treatment of complex topics might be a good indicator of AI authorship. What’s more, the logical flow and coherence of ideas should be thoroughly examined.

Technological Solutions

For those interested in more technical means of detection, AI detection tools offer a practical solution. These tools are designed specifically to identify patterns typical of AI-generated content. According to tech.co , certain AI plagiarism checkers outperform others in accurately spotting these patterns. Also, established plagiarism checkers like Turnitin have started incorporating AI-detection functionalities to adapt to this new challenge. Popular tools often provide detailed reports, but it’s important to interpret these results by considering the essay’s context and style.

Practical Tips

Combining manual and technological methods provides the best chance of making a conclusive judgment. Here are a few practical tips:

• Question the Author: Engaging the student in discussions about their work can reveal their understanding and offer clues about the essay’s authenticity.
• Bibliography and Citation Styles: Consistency in citation style can also be a tell-tale sign. AI tools may not always get this quite right.
• Mixed Methods: Using a mix of manual checks and AI detection tools increases accuracy. For instance, manual checks can emphasize areas where the essay appears atypical, which can be further scrutinized using AI tools.

Final Thoughts

By combining manual evaluation with technological solutions, you can effectively discern between human and AI-generated essays. Understanding AI’s stylistic and content patterns is important for maintaining academic integrity. Stay knowledgeable, vigilant, and proactive in adapting to changing technology. Take action to uphold the integrity of written work today.

1. How Can I Tell If an Essay is Written by AI?

To identify AI-written essays, look for uniformity in tone and style, lack of personal touch, and overly formal or simplistic language. Check for redundant phrases and syntactic structures, unusual word choices, and superficial treatment of complex topics. The absence of personal anecdotes or unique perspectives and formulaic structures can also hint at AI authorship.

2. Why Is It Important to Distinguish Between Human and AI-Written Content?

Distinguishing between human and AI-written content matters for ethical considerations, ensuring academic integrity, and understanding the real-world implications. Using AI to write essays can undermine the value of authentic learning experiences and the development of critical thinking skills. Awareness helps uphold standards and promotes genuine effort.

3. What Tools Can Help Detect AI-Generated Content?

Various tools can help detect AI-generated content, such as AI detection tools and plagiarism checkers with AI-detection capabilities. Examples include Turnitin’s AI writing detection and OpenAI’s GPT-3 output detector. These tools analyze stylistic patterns, sentence structures, and other markers typical of AI-generated texts to identify probable AI authorship.

4. How Effective Are Manual Techniques in Identifying AI Writing?

Manual techniques can be quite effective in identifying AI writing when combined with other methods. Evaluate essays by cross-referencing with the student’s previous work, checking for depth and original thought, and analyzing logical flow and coherence. Questioning the author on their content and closely examining bibliography and citation styles can also provide valuable insights.

5. What Are Practical Tips for Ensuring Essay Authenticity?

To ensure essay authenticity, use a blended approach of manual and technological evaluations. Cross-check the essay with the student’s previous work and use AI detection tools. Incorporate questioning sessions about the content and carefully review the sources and citations. Staying knowledgeable about changing AI technologies will aid in maintaining academic integrity.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

Simple and effective strategies to enhance your essay writing skills and create compelling and impactful content.

Writing an exceptional essay requires more than just basic writing skills. It is an art that involves carefully crafting your thoughts and effectively conveying them to your readers. Whether you are a student looking to excel in your academic writing or a professional seeking to enhance your communication skills, mastering the art of essay writing can greatly benefit you in various aspects of life.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing an outstanding essay, there are certain techniques that can significantly improve your writing prowess. By incorporating these seven tips into your writing routine, you can enhance the quality and impact of your essays, making them more engaging and memorable for your target audience.

One essential technique to elevate your essay writing is to make your arguments more convincing and compelling. This can be achieved by incorporating strong evidence and supporting examples throughout your essay. Adding relevant facts, statistics, and expert opinions will not only strengthen your arguments but also lend credibility to your overall writing.

Furthermore, utilizing appropriate language and vocabulary is crucial in order to effectively communicate your ideas. Using precise and concise language not only showcases your command over the subject matter but also helps in maintaining the reader’s interest. Additionally, employing varied sentence structures and rhetorical devices can further enhance the flow and coherence of your essay.

Mastering the Basics of Essay Writing

Acquiring proficiency in the fundamentals of composing essays is an essential step towards becoming a skilled writer. Gaining a solid grasp of the basics not only lays the foundation for more sophisticated writing, but it also enhances communication skills, fosters critical thinking, and cultivates creativity.

Developing a coherent and well-structured essay requires attention to several key elements. First and foremost, a strong thesis statement serves as the backbone of an essay, providing a clear and concise summary of the main argument. This enables the reader to understand the purpose and direction of the essay from the outset.

In addition to a thoughtful thesis statement, effective essay writing involves constructing a logical and organized outline. Creating an outline before diving into writing allows for a systematic arrangement of ideas and ensures a smooth flow of thoughts. A well-structured outline helps writers stay focused and prevents the essay from becoming disjointed or confusing.

Vocabulary plays a crucial role in essay writing, as it enables writers to express ideas precisely and effectively. Building a diverse and nuanced vocabulary not only enhances the quality of the writing, but it also allows for more sophisticated analysis and argumentation. Utilizing synonyms, antonyms, and idiomatic expressions enriches the language used in an essay and engages the reader.

Another fundamental aspect of essay writing is the development and support of arguments. It is vital to present a clear and logical progression of ideas, using relevant evidence and examples to bolster one’s claims. Solid arguments are backed by reputable sources, such as academic journals, books, and expert opinions, which lend credibility and authority to the essay.

Moreover, mastering the art of essay writing involves honing one’s grammar and punctuation skills. Proper grammar ensures clarity and coherence in writing, allowing ideas to be communicated effectively. Accurate punctuation, including the use of commas, periods, and quotation marks, contributes to the overall readability and professionalism of the essay.

Finally, a well-crafted conclusion is essential to leave a lasting impression on the reader. The conclusion should summarize the main points discussed in the essay and reassert the thesis statement, while also providing a thought-provoking closing remark. A strong conclusion not only brings the essay to a satisfying end but also leaves the reader with a sense of closure and a desire to further explore the topic.

Mastering the basics of essay writing is a continuous process that requires practice, patience, and an open mind. Developing these foundational skills not only improves one’s ability to write compelling essays but also enhances overall communication and critical thinking abilities. By understanding and implementing the fundamental elements of essay writing, anyone can become a proficient writer capable of captivating and engaging their audience.

The importance of understanding essay structure and organization

Mastering the art of essay writing involves more than just employing a vast vocabulary and impeccable grammar. A crucial aspect that often goes overlooked is the understanding of essay structure and organization. While it may seem trivial, the way your essay is structured can greatly impact its overall effectiveness and cohesiveness.

When you approach an essay without a clear structure in mind, it becomes challenging for your ideas to flow smoothly and for your reader to follow your argument. By comprehending the various components of essay structure and organization, you can ensure that your essay is logical, coherent, and easy to navigate.

One essential element of essay structure is the introduction, where you present your topic and provide the necessary context. This section should grab your reader’s attention, introduce your thesis statement, and outline the main points you will discuss throughout the essay. By having a strong and well-crafted introduction, you set the groundwork for the rest of your essay.

The body paragraphs are another integral part of essay organization. These paragraphs should each focus on a single main idea that supports your thesis statement. By using topic sentences and providing supporting evidence, you can effectively build your argument and provide a convincing case for your position. Additionally, it is essential to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs by utilizing transition words and phrases.

The conclusion is the final part of your essay, where you summarize your main points and restate your thesis. It is important to leave a lasting impression on your reader and provide a sense of closure. A well-crafted conclusion can tie together all the ideas presented throughout the essay and leave your reader with a clear understanding of your argument.

Understanding essay structure and organization allows you to create a coherent and persuasive piece of writing. By following a logical structure and organizing your ideas effectively, you can enhance the readability and impact of your essay. So, before you start drafting your next essay, take the time to understand how to structure and organize your thoughts effectively.

Researching Techniques for Writing an Effective Essay

Developing strong researching techniques is crucial for writing a high-quality essay that effectively communicates your ideas and supports your arguments. Effective research allows you to gather relevant and reliable information to strengthen your essay’s content and credibility. It involves exploring various sources, critically evaluating the information, and selecting the most reliable and authoritative sources to cite within your essay. By utilizing effective researching techniques, you can ensure that your essay is well-informed and presents a compelling argument.

Tips on finding and evaluating reliable sources

When writing an essay, it is essential to support your arguments with reliable sources. However, finding and evaluating these sources can be a challenging task. In this section, we will provide you with valuable tips on how to locate trustworthy sources and assess their credibility.

1. Diversify your sources: In order to gather a well-rounded perspective on your topic, it is important to consult a variety of sources. This includes academic journals, books, reputable websites, and expert opinions. By considering multiple viewpoints, you can strengthen the validity of your arguments.

2. Check the author’s credentials: Before incorporating information from a source, it is crucial to assess the author’s qualifications. Look for their educational background, professional experience, and any relevant affiliations. This will help determine their expertise and credibility in the given field.

3. Evaluate the publication or website: Consider the publisher or website hosting the source. Is it a well-known and respected entity? Does the publication have a peer review process? Is the website regularly updated and maintained? These factors can give you insights into the reliability and quality of the source.

4. Assess the objectivity: Determine whether the source demonstrates a bias or presents a balanced viewpoint. It is important to critically evaluate the author’s intentions and any potential conflicts of interest. Aim to include sources that provide objective information rather than skewed perspectives.

5. Cross-reference with other sources: To ensure accuracy and reliability, cross-reference the information provided in the source with other reputable sources. Look for consensus among various authors and publications to verify the validity of the information you are using.

6. Examine the citations and references: A reliable source will provide citations and references to support their claims. Examine these references to determine whether they are from reputable sources themselves. This will help ensure that the information you are using is based on reliable and well-established research.

7. Consider the date: Lastly, consider the publication date of the source. While older sources may still contain valuable information, it is important to prioritize recent publications, particularly in rapidly evolving fields. Be aware of the currency of the research and seek out the most up-to-date sources whenever possible.

Building Strong Arguments in Your Essays

Constructing compelling arguments is a pivotal aspect of effective essay writing. Crafting robust and persuasive arguments serves to validate the ideas and claims presented in your essays. By presenting logical reasoning, evidence, and counterarguments, you can make your essay convincing and credible.

To build strong arguments in your essays, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and gather relevant evidence to support your claims. This evidence can include facts, statistics, expert opinions, and examples. By incorporating solid evidence, you strengthen your arguments and provide a solid foundation for your essay.

In addition to supporting your claims with evidence, it is essential to present logical reasoning throughout your essay. Logical reasoning involves connecting the dots between your evidence and the main point you are trying to convey. By using logical reasoning, you demonstrate the coherence and validity of your arguments.

Moreover, acknowledging and addressing counterarguments can also strengthen your essay. By anticipating and refuting potential counterarguments, you demonstrate your awareness and understanding of different perspectives. This shows that you have carefully considered opposing viewpoints and have taken them into account when formulating your arguments.

In order to effectively build strong arguments, it is essential to structure your essay in a logical and organized manner. This involves clearly stating your main point or thesis statement and providing a clear roadmap of how you will support it throughout your essay. By presenting your arguments in a clear and organized manner, you make it easier for readers to follow your train of thought and understand the strength of your arguments.

Lastly, using language and rhetoric effectively can enhance the strength of your arguments. By employing persuasive techniques, such as rhetorical questions, emotional appeals, and vivid imagery, you can engage your readers and convince them of the validity of your arguments. However, it is important to use these techniques judiciously and in moderation, as excessive use can detract from the credibility of your essay.

Strategies for developing compelling and persuasive arguments

In order to effectively communicate your ideas and persuade your readers, it is essential to develop compelling and persuasive arguments. Crafting strong arguments requires careful consideration of your audience, thorough research, and logical reasoning. By employing these strategies, you can enhance the effectiveness of your writing and captivate your readers.

Evidence-based approach: One of the most crucial strategies for developing compelling arguments is to support your claims with credible evidence. Use research, statistics, expert opinions, and real-life examples to validate your points and make your arguments more persuasive. By presenting solid evidence, you establish your credibility and give your readers a reason to trust your arguments.

Logical reasoning: Another important aspect of developing persuasive arguments is using logical reasoning. Make sure your arguments flow logically and are supported by sound reasoning. Avoid logical fallacies such as false analogies, hasty generalizations, or ad hominem attacks. Use logical strategies such as deductive or inductive reasoning to structure your arguments effectively.

Understanding your audience: To craft compelling arguments, it is essential to know your audience and tailor your writing accordingly. Consider the values, beliefs, and priorities of your readers, as well as their potential biases or counterarguments. By addressing their concerns and anticipating their objections, you can make your arguments more relevant and persuasive.

Persuasive language: The choice of language plays a crucial role in developing compelling arguments. Use persuasive language techniques such as rhetorical questions, metaphors, vivid imagery, and powerful adjectives to create an emotional connection with your readers. By appealing to their emotions and senses, you can make your arguments more memorable and impactful.

Structuring your arguments: A well-structured essay is more compelling and persuasive. Start by stating your main thesis or claim clearly and concisely. Break down your arguments into logical paragraphs and provide clear transitions between them. Use topic sentences and supporting evidence to strengthen your arguments and guide your readers through your essay smoothly.

Anticipating and addressing counterarguments: In order to make your arguments more persuasive, it is important to anticipate potential counterarguments and address them effectively. Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and provide evidence to refute them. By demonstrating that you have considered different perspectives and have solid rebuttals, you strengthen your own arguments and make them more convincing.

Concluding with a powerful statement: The conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your readers. End your essay with a strong statement that summarizes your main arguments and reinforces your thesis. Use a call to action, a thought-provoking question, or a memorable quote to leave your readers with something to ponder after reading your essay.

By employing these strategies, you can elevate your writing skills and develop compelling and persuasive arguments that engage your readers and leave a lasting impact. Remember to practice and refine your techniques, as persuasive writing is a skill that can be honed over time.

Improving Your Essay Writing Style

Developing a strong and effective writing style is essential for creating compelling and impactful essays that captivate readers. The way you express your thoughts, ideas, and arguments in writing significantly influences how your essay is received and understood. To enhance your essay writing style, consider the following strategies:

1. Craft succinct and precise sentences: Instead of using lengthy and convoluted sentences, aim for brevity and clarity. Keep your sentences concise and to the point, ensuring that each word serves a specific purpose in conveying your message.

2. Vary sentence structure: Incorporate a mixture of short, medium, and complex sentences to add rhythm and flow to your writing. This not only prevents your essay from sounding monotonous but also demonstrates your command of language and syntax.

3. Use vivid and specific language: Instead of using generic and vague terms, opt for specific and descriptive language that paints a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. This not only engages the reader but also adds depth and richness to your writing.

4. Show, don’t tell: Rather than simply stating your ideas and opinions, strive to illustrate them through concrete examples and anecdotes. This allows readers to visualize your arguments and makes your writing more persuasive and compelling.

5. Pay attention to transitions: Smooth transitions are crucial for maintaining coherence and guiding readers through your essay. Make use of transitional words and phrases to seamlessly connect your ideas and ensure a logical flow of thoughts.

6. Edit and revise: After completing your essay, take the time to thoroughly edit and revise it. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, as well as to the overall structure and organization of your essay. Additionally, ensure that your writing style remains consistent throughout.

7. Seek feedback: Consider sharing your essay with trusted peers, mentors, or tutors to receive constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. Feedback from others can help you identify any weaknesses in your writing style and provide valuable insights for enhancing your essay.

By implementing these strategies and continuously honing your writing style, you can elevate your essay writing to new heights, captivating readers and effectively conveying your ideas and arguments.

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2025 Fellowship Application Process

Eligibility

The Mandela Washington Fellowship is open to young African leaders who meet the following criteria:

• Are citizens of and residents in a sub-Saharan African country
• Are between the ages of 25 and 35 at the time of application submission;
• Are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States;
• Are eligible to receive a United States J-1 visa;
• Are not employees or immediate family members of employees of the U.S. Government;
• Are proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English;
• Are not Alumni of the Mandela Washington Fellowship

Selection of finalists from all eligible countries may be subject to review in response to local, national, or global events that impact the ability to conduct program activities.

What are the criteria for selection?

• A proven record of leadership and accomplishment in public service, business, and/or civic engagement;
• A demonstrated commitment to public or community service, volunteerism, or mentorship
• The ability to work cooperatively in diverse groups and respect the opinions of others;
• Strong social and communication skills;
• An energetic, positive, and flexible attitude;
• Demonstrated knowledge, interest, and professional experience in the preferred Fellowship track and concrete goals for applying knowledge and skills gained from the Fellowship to current and/or future work;
• A commitment to return to Africa and contribute skills and talents to build and serve their communities.

The Application

The application will collect basic information and will include questions regarding applicants’ professional and  academic experience including professional background, educational background, honors and awards received, extracurricular and volunteer activities, and English language proficiency. As part of the application, applicants will also be asked to provide written responses to personal statements (essay questions). Additional elements, such as letters of recommendation or university transcripts, are OPTIONAL and may supplement your application.

Application Timeline

• August 13, 2024 |  Application opens
• September 10, 2024  |   Application deadline
• November 2024 – January 2025  |   Semi-finalists interviewed by local U.S. embassies and consulates
• March 2025 |   Applicants notified of their status
• May 2025  |   Visa processing and Pre-Departure Orientations for Finalists
• June 2025  |   Fellowship begins in the United States

 Apply now at   : MWFellows.Info/Apply

The Mandela Washington Fellowship is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and administered by IREX.  Applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, socio-economic status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

PEPFAR is the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the U.S. Government initiative to help save and improve the lives of those suffering from or at risk of contracting HIV/AIDS around the world. PEPFAR is the largest commitment by any nation in history to combat a single disease internationally, and its investments also help build strong health systems to prevent and alleviate suffering from other diseases. PEPFAR is driven by a shared responsibility among donor and partner nations to make smart investments to save and improve lives.

With U.S. leadership and support, tremendous progress has been made in the fight against global AIDS. As of September 2012, PEPFAR had directly supported life-saving antiretroviral treatment for more than 5.1 million men, women, and children, up from 1.7 million in 2008 – a three-fold increase in only four years. PEPFAR directly supported more than 15 million people with care and support programs last year, including more than 6 million orphans and vulnerable children. PEPFAR’s efforts to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission last year allowed 230,000 babies of HIV-positive mothers to be born HIV-free. For more information about PEPFAR efforts around the world, please visit www.PEPFAR.gov , http://twitter.com/PEPFAR , or www.facebook.com/PEPFAR .

During its first five years (2004-2008), PEPFAR concentrated most of its resources on 15 “focus” countries: Côte d’Ivoire, Botswana, Ethiopia, Guyana, Haiti, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zambia. During Phase 2 (2009-2013), PEPFAR is working in more than 100 countries around the world, with an emphasis on high-prevalence, low-resource countries where external funding can make a significant impact.

In Côte d’Ivoire, PEPFAR has invested more than $900 million since 2004. PEPFAR is by far the largest donor to the Ivoirian HIV/AIDS response.

In addition to providing about 75% of external HIV/AIDS funding through PEPFAR, the U.S. government provides one-third of the funding contributed by the second-largest donor, the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (GFATM). Other donors include the United Nations (UNAIDS, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, UNFPA, etc.), the French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Union. The Government of Côte d’Ivoire funds the Ministry of Health and AIDS (MSLS) and other ministries, including personnel and overhead costs at public health facilities, where HIV/AIDS services are integrated into a “national package” of regular health services. Under MSLS leadership, PEPFAR collaborates with all donors to avoid duplication, fill gaps, and maximize synergies.

PEPFAR funds are used to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS, to improve the lives of adults and children living with or affected by HIV, and to build strong systems to support sustainable national responses to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. To achieve its objectives, PEPFAR funds support activities in the following program areas: prevention of sexual transmission and mother-to-child transmission of HIV, HIV testing and counseling, blood safety, injection safety, management of medical waste, adult and pediatric care and treatment of HIV and of HIV/TB co-infection, care and support for orphans and vulnerable children, procurement of medications and commodities, and strengthening of laboratory, strategic information, and other health systems.

The PEPFAR team in Côte d’Ivoire is led by the U.S. Ambassador. Most funds are administered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), with smaller projects administered by the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of State (DoS), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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