Improve academic writing
Hi, I am currently a University student studying something related to social sciences. The course mostly requires me to write a lot of academic essays which I have a lot of trouble in. The main problem with my essays relate to being clear and coherent, and critical writing. Although I spoke with my tutors about this problem, I dont think it had any improvement, Im wondering if theres any simple way to improve these things? #writing
11 answers
Lauren’s Answer
Writing skills are valuable far beyond university, and I think it's wonderful you're focused on improving those skills now. Good luck!
Kim’s Answer
Try to return to the basics. A strong introductory paragraph, the body paragraphs, and a strong summary/conclusion. Make sure that the "body" paragraphs start with a good sentence which conveys what that paragraph will address, and ends with a transitional sentence leading right into the next paragraph.
Try reading the essay this way: Read the intro paragraph, read ONLY the first and last sentence of each "body" paragraph, and read the final paragraph. Does the reader get a full overview of the essay if they do that?
Do you take full advantage of the grammar checks on MS Word? One thing I learned about my writing is that I use the word "that" too much! Check for overuse and see how many "thats" you can remove. Realize, when you are trying to make a point, a lot of useless filler detracts from the strength of your argument. Ask yourself, what is it you are trying to convey in each paragraph? Now, read each sentence, one at a time, and ask how it adds to your argument, or, if it even does!
I'm not sure how deeply into critical writing you are going. I know when I read, I am looking for proof. If you tell me it is a well-known fact that pecan trees detract from the beauty of a suburban landscape, I'm not going to believe you. That statement had to come from somewhere, and it had best be someone with credibility. Are you citing sources?
Lots of people recommend outlines. They never worked for me, but, they might work for you. Or, conversely, you may try to take a finished writing and turn it into an outline, to see if it makes sense.
Part of this is learning where your shortcomings are and how to get around them. Part of it is learning what the teacher likes. And everything you learn this semester might not work for the next professor. . .
By the way, I thought the way you phrased your question was excellent!
Kim
Capria’s Answer
One thing that always helps me out when I am writing is to first create a bulletpoint outline. This helps me to organize my thoughts clearly so things flow better. When doing this I think of what it is that I am trying to convey. Once I have my outline finished I then begin to write my paper under the bullet items. Then I can always look back to make sure my supporting points in my paragraph are achieving the goal my bullet points have written out. I will give an example below.
Capria recommends the following next steps:
Jessica Sera’s Answer
I would not say there is a simple answer to improve academic writing. That being said, there are definitely steps you can take to improve. It is great that you are meeting with tutors to discuss your writing. If you do not think you are seeing improvement, it may be beneficial to have a conversation with the tutor about specific challenges you are facing. I would recommend getting as much feedback as you can, from the people who are directly reading your writing. If your professor allows it, it may help to visit them during their Office Hours or to visit a Writing Center on campus. Another suggestion would be to read academic articles about topics you are writing about. You can do a Google Scholar search on your topic, and take time to read a couple of scholarly articles. Seeing others' examples and their writing styles may help guide you to be clearer and more coherent.
Overall, academic writing is tough to master, and it definitely improves with practice. Best of luck!
Jessica Sera recommends the following next steps:
Simeon’s Answer
Ron’s Answer
Diane’s Answer
Start with “what do I want to tell my reader?” This is your Main Purpose., which you should include in your introduction. “Why does my reader care? “
For example, the book I read XYZ was amazing. I could relate to the characters, I love history, and the author had a surprise ending.Next, expand.
(Three or more ideas/reasons/paragraphs come next),
1. I felt like I understood the main character. (Now expand in this in the same paragraph). a. The character was shy, b. misunderstood, c. lonely. You can break these into sub-paragraphs also, if you want to talk more about these character traits.
Whenever you write a single paragraph, always return to that first sentence and make sure you remain on topic.
2. The next paragraph you provide the second reason. (The story happened 100 years ago). Now describe that. a. I love a simpler time, b. I love history, c. People were strong.
3. Your third paragraph provides the third reason. (The story had a surprise ending). Now explain why. a. I thought it would end this way. b. Instead, this is how it ended.
Honestly, the key to good writing is an outline. Stick to it!! And practice.
Kristen’s Answer
1. What is the one thing – the main message or headline – that you want to convey? Make that the basis for everything that follows.
2. Think about the paragraphs like a staircase. Each paragraph is built on the ideas of the previous paragraph to connect and move forward.
3. Start with an outline. Slot in your headline/main idea, and then list all of the points that support that main idea. Show how each of these points connect back to your headline/main idea.
I hope this helps, and wish you good luck in your studies!