Tips For Drafting an Essay (Part 2)

 Tips for Drafting an Essay (Part 2) 

We discussed the steps to essay writing in a previous blog titled “Tips For Drafting An Essay”. We touched on the research, outlining, drafting and revising of an essay. We will now continue by discussing a few tips that can better help you to write a killer essay.

Setting the Mood

Before you even begin to write it is important to have the right mindset and atmosphere. If you’re someone who likes to have noise in the background make sure to prepare a music playlist or choose an easygoing show (preferably something you’ve already seen) to play in the background. If you’re someone who requires complete silence it is important to plan or even schedule when you will be writing. This is so you avoid distractions and any noise from family or roommates. 

Make sure to be mindful of where you choose to write. Some people prefer open spaces. Sitting by a widow or even outside can be beneficial for this kind of person. If you prefer the opposite, a space that is smaller, you should find yourself a writing nook, whether it’s in a library or your bedroom. Whatever your preference it is important to know what works for you so you can make the writing process more suitable to yourself.

Technology

Put the phone away. This is an obvious one but perhaps it is a good reminder. Just put the phone away. I promise it helps and instagram, tik-tok, twitter etc. will still be there when you get back to it. 

Planning and Researching

This is one of the most important parts of writing an essay. Before you even begin to write it is important to thoroughly know what you’re going to write about. Knowing the subject matter well will prepare you to write a great essay. Make sure you know the subject well enough that you can explain it or teach it to someone. 

Drafting

Now I am sure that you’ve been taught how to create an outline before you begin to write. While that can be helpful it is not the only way to plan out what you are going to write.

After reading In Anne Lamott’s, Shitty first Drafts my view on the first draft has been forever changed.She states that your first draft is the “child’s draft, where you let it all pour out”. In other words when you draft it doesn’t have to be strategically planned out.

 If you find yourself stuck or struggling to follow your outline you can simply write a “shitty first draft”. If you’ve researched well enough you’ll most likely have a lot of knowledge. Sometimes free writing whatever is on your mind can be a helpful tool. While what you write will not always end up being your final draft it will help you to come up with ideas for your final essay.

Letting a Friend Read Your Essay

This is so simple yet many fail to use this tool. Luckily as students we have peers who similarly write essays themselves. Asking a fellow student or friend to read your essay is very helpful. A fresh pair of eyes will allow you to gain a new perspective and help you see what might need some work in your essay.