How to Write School Essays That Get High Marks

How do you earn good scores with your class essays? I think the answers should be obvious. You work hard at it. You: 

• Perform thorough research.
• Plan your structure and presentation.
• Carefully map out your arguments.
• Express your ideas the best way you can.
• Do a thorough job of editing and proofreading with the help of a full-featured writing software.

If you do all that, there's no way anyone can chastise you for doing poor work. However, there are some specifics that you should watch out for: ones that can mean the difference between a high mark and a passing grade.

Here are some things to avoid: 

• Really thin reference lists. A 2,000 word essay should have, at the least, between 8 to 12 references. Using one or two primary sources severely limits the range of your piece and puts you in danger of plagiarizing.
• Passive, vague and ambiguous writing. Focusing too much on generalities often lead to this pitfall. Same with entertaining conjectures. As a rule, look to focus on specifics, always backed up by sound theory and evidence. Avoid any bold statements without factual reason.
• Veering off from the question. Some people start an essay at one point and end up rattling off on related ideas. While not necessarily bad, it severely dilutes your response to the main question.
• Unbalanced arguments. Objectivity is crucial in academic writing and striving for a balance in your arguments ensure that. Give space to opposing views, acknowledging their relevance while promoting your own points.

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