How to Write a Winning Essay

5 quick tips to get you started

1. Choose a topic you're passionate about

When considering essay topics, choose a topic that you're interested in. It will motivate you to write, and you'll enjoy writing it. We don't have preferences for specific types of essays, so don't pick topics based on what you think we'd like - we welcome any topic you choose.

2. Pose an idea or question that will make your readers think

When you write, consider why readers might be interested in reading your work. Try to pose an idea to make your readers think about why your topic is significant, or ponder the answer to your topic.

3. Don't quote and run - analyse your quotations

If you use quotations in an analytical paper or research paper, make sure you provide your own analysis and interpretation of the quotes. Although the quote may seem self-explanatory to you, your audience can't guess what you're thinking. So if you decide to use a quote, don't simply leave it hanging or summarize it, explicitly explain why it supports your argument.

4. Don't be repetitive for the sake of writing more

Don't be afraid to be concise as you write, and think about how you can frame your work so that it will keep your audience engaged throughout the essay. There isn't a fixed word limit, so there's no need to write something if it just repeats something you've already said.

5. Write a nuanced argument (for research papers)

Once you've found a topic that interests you, make sure to do research around it, considering a wide variety of sources. Present multiple perspectives, including your own, and evaluate any evidence that supports these arguments.

If you need any futher suggestions, check out The Field's Research Guide