You start writing an essay with the introduction. Right? Wrong! Never start your essay by writing the introduction first. Confused? In How to Write an Essay, Jeni Mawter shares years of teaching experience to de-mystify and simplify the essay-writing process. In conclusion ... Anyone can write an essay!

1. How to
write an
Essay
Jeni Mawter
www.jenimawter.com

2. Stuff you wished
your teacher
told you!

3. Everyone
can write
an essay

4. …when they know how!

5. Stop procrastinating!

6. Do not start your essay
with the introductionhttp://londonist.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MP-5744_3_Wrong_Landingpage1.jpg
http://mgmpbig.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/structure-of-paragraph.jpg

7. Do not work forwards

8. Start
by analysing
‘The Question’http://bentyogastudio.com/wp-content/uploads/question_marks2.jpg

9. • What is it asking?
• Underline key words
• Keep the written question in front of you at
all times
• Keep referring back to the question
• Repeat the key words throughout the essay

10. Different Types of Essay Questions
Narrative
Tells a story. Uses experiences of self and others,
research, memories etc. The story will have a
point to it. First person point of view is more
personal and intimate.
Descriptive
A person, place or thing is described in vivid detail
by using colourful or descriptive language, making
interesting observations and/or comparisons and
appealing to all the senses.

11. Different Types of Essay Questions
Persuasive
This essay is written to convince a reader to
accept your point of view. It is biased and may or
may not consider opposing views. It is supported
with evidence.
Cause and Effect
This essay examines relationships between a
cause and effect.

12. Different Types of Essay Questions
Compare and Contrast
Comparing shows how things are alike.
Contrasting shows how they are different.
Define
Provides the meaning of the word, concept or topic
to be discussed.
Evaluate
Giving a judgement on the worth, or value, of
something based on evidence.

13. Work backwards!
• http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMjEsG8TBgw/UZYvJy2UzMI/AAAAAAAABcI/25ZDjzsafL0/s1600/Mary+Ann+Blog+Pic.jpg

14. Plan your answer before you write
It’s impossible to
write an introduction
if you don’t know
your conclusion!

15. Plan your answer before you write
- Work out your key points.
- Place in order of priority.
- Work out points that can be linked.
- Ensure your key points relate to the
question.
- Go back and check!

16. Form your conclusions

17. Write your introduction
Opening sentence should refer
to the essay question.
Following sentences should
outline key points to be
discussed.

18. Write the body of your essay
- In order of priority, discuss each key point.
- Allow one point per paragraph (maybe two if
there’s a link).
- Keep referring back to the essay question.
- Support your argument with evidence.
- Don’t waffle. Make your point then move on.

19. See if you can come up with an
original thought, also called critical
thinking, or critical evaluation.

20. NOW, write your conclusion!
The conclusion will be a brief summary of your
arguments or key points in order of priority,
always making reference to the question.

21. Check over your essay
- Make sure you’ve answered the question.
- Read your work out loud.
- Awkward sentences or repetition need re-
writing or deleting.
- Proofread and don’t rely only on
Spellcheck.

22. • Choose a topic you
care about.
• Narrow down the
topic so there’s less
research to do.
• Get a copy of the
Marking Criteria.
Make sure you’ve
met the criteria.

23. How to
write an
Essay
by Jeni Mawter
www.jenimawter.com