Writing the Essay

(A geyser erupting in Yellowstone National Park)

Introduction

Once you’ve done some research, made an outline, and practiced composing paragraphs, you’re in a great position to write your whole essay. This page provides some resources to help you assemble the various parts into a unified whole.

Resources

Use the following resources whenever you need some specific advice:

• Essay Format (scroll to the bottom for a handy Word template)
• Writer’s Block
• Tone and Audience
• The Parts of an Essay (specific lessons on everything from introductions to conclusions)
• Integrating Quotations
• MLA Citation (everything you need to know about citing your sources)

Advice

Writing a complete essay is not an easy task. Use your outline to keep you on track, but don’t be afraid to make changes if you come up with a better way to structure your material.

Always remember to tie everything back to your main argument. Remind your readers where you’re going, yet don’t bore them with endless repetition.

Ask yourself if you would want to read the essay. Is it interesting and exciting? Do you present the information in a way that’s both clear and compelling?

For this assignment you are allowed to use illustrations. Just make sure you provide a caption with a proper citation.

Finally, and most importantly, remember that this is your essay. Nobody wants to read a long string of quotations or a tedious series of facts. Add your own perspective. Interpret the evidence. Explain why the information is important and relevant. This is your essay, so make sure you have the final word.