How to write a good essay in simple steps

Follow these four simple steps and you will definitely succeed:

1. Write the introduction

• Explain your topic clearly and briefly.
• Introduce the main idea and the basic questions you are going to describe.
• Explain briefly and clearly how the questions will be answered.
• Make it interesting to read.

2. Write the main body of the essay

• Make sure that each point is given a new paragraph.
• Use words or phrases that show how it relates to the previous paragraph, e.g., 'however', ‘in addition', ‘moreover'.
• Begin each paragraph with an important (topic) sentence that clearly links the paragraph to the rest of the essay.
• Give supporting evidence for each point that you make. 
• Quote or paraphrase but avoid plagiarism.

3. Write the conclusion

• Describe briefly the main ideas.
• Demonstrate how you proved your attitude.
• Later you can write, e.g., “The following conclusions were made: …” and then mention them, like “First, …, Second, … Third, …. Finally…”
• Finish your essay with an interesting or surprising idea, suggestion, recommendation or comment.

4. Edit your essay – read carefully what you wrote. Do not leave exam room early. Try to use the opportunity to stay longer in order to write better.

• Check spelling, punctuation, tenses (use present simple or simple past tense).
• Use a pencil. Delete anything that is not important.
• Change vocabulary to improve expression; use synonyms as much as possible.
• Read again and again. Use eraser as often as possible. Edit, delete, correct, rewrite. 
• Look after it as if it was your newly born baby.