Essays give you a chance to show what you can do: that you understand the question asked; that you understand the issues involved; that you have done the appropriate amount of reading. However, having got that far, you must then show that you can communicate your understanding to others.

There are a number of logical steps involved in this process. This study resource is designed to help you to construct a logically structured essay.

DO:

1. Make sure that you actually answer the question. If you are asked to assess, or to choose, or to discuss -- do it.
2. Lots of background reading and research using a wide range of materials (books, CD Rom, journals etc).
3. Start early - taking notes and researching.
4. Make an essay outline before you begin writing.
5. Stick to the question asked.
6. Write rough drafts.
7. Reference correctly.
8. Read through before handing in, and leave plenty of time for corrections.
9. Hand in on time.

DON'T:

1. Leave research and preparation to the last minute.
2. Go to the library to get materials only a few days before the submission date - all the useful texts will be out on loan!.
3. Copy large sections of text from books (this is plagiarism).
4. Forget to make a note of where your information came from (you will need this to prepare your reference list and to put references in your essay).
5. Rely on a computer to pick up all your spelling and grammatical errors.
6. Use limited sources/references.
7. Write down everything you know about the subject: it may not all be relevant.
8. Put quotes in without references.
9. Sit and worry about it - seek help!