
An essay is a short non-fiction literary work written about a certain subject. One type of essay, an expository essay, gives information to the reader that is not clouded by the writer’s opinions. It may compare, discuss, analyze, or tell a story. The main focus is to explain the facts.
Basics for a Great Essay
- The wording needs to concise and clear.
- Write the essay in the second person perspective (you).
- Decide on your method of development: define, compare and contrast, analyze, cause and effect, or classify. This will define your writing style and is one of the most important tips on writing an excellent expository essay.
- Write a thesis statement and have topic sentences for each paragraph.
- A successful essay will have the important points emphasized, will be factual and not subjective, and have valid information.
- Conclusions can restate the argument, summarize your facts, or give the next step needed to further the research.
- Keep your writing concise and brief.
- Each paragraph should cover one topic and each sentence should present a new idea.
- Use transitory words and sentences to make your essay flow smoothly. Connect sentences with words like: however, for example, or such as. Connect paragraphs by having the topic sentence refer back to the preceding paragraph or the thesis statement.