If you are assigned a 1200-word essay, it can seem daunting at first. However, with the right approach, you can write engaging and informative content that captivates your readers while hitting your mark. Below are key takeaways to set you up for success.
Craft a Compelling Title
Your choice of title is just as important as the actual content of your essay. The title should be clear, concise, informative, and contain the right set of keywords that signal to the search engines what the article is about. It should also be clickable, to attract readers to click the link and read your essay.
Choose a Topic
Identify a topic that is specific and relevant to your readers. A generic topic could make your essay appear bland and uninteresting. Your answer to these questions will help you choose a suitable topic:- What is your area of expertise?- What interests your readers?- What can you teach your audience that they don’t already know?
Research Your Topic
Once you have identified a topic, the next step is to conduct research on it. Look for credible sources that provide valuable insights that support your thesis. You can research online, use databases, read books, or do interviews with experts in the field.
Create an Outline
A clear outline is a roadmap that guides you in writing an essay that is coherent and flows logically. Your outline should include an introduction, body, and conclusion, with each section containing key points that address the main topic.
Write the Introduction
Your introduction should grab your readers’ attention and introduce your topic. Start with a hook, such as a question or an interesting fact about your topic. The introduction should also provide background information, state your thesis, and outline the main points that support it.
Develop the Body
The body of your essay should contain your main points, examples, and supporting evidence. Break down your main points into separate paragraphs and use topic sentences to introduce each one. Use transitions to make sure each paragraph flows smoothly into the next.
Craft a Conclusion
Your conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. End on a strong note that leaves a lasting impression.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a compelling title that is clickable and keyword-rich
- Select a specific topic that will engage your readers
- Conduct research on your topic and use credible sources
- Create a clear outline that guides your essay
- Use a hook to grab your readers’ attention in the introduction
- Clearly state your thesis and key points in the introduction
- Separate your main points into individual paragraphs with clear topic sentences
- Provide examples and supporting evidence to back up your main points
- End with a strong conclusion that summarizes the main points and leaves a lasting impression
FAQs
Q: Can I exceed 1200 words in my essay?A: It’s always best to stick to your assigned word count. Though sometimes you may be given a range, and you can use that flexibility to give your essay more gravitas. Exceeding your word count can lead to losing marks, and your work may become difficult to read.
Q: How long should the introduction be?A: The introduction of your essay should be brief and to the point. It’s essential to make it engaging but not too long. Generally, it should be around 10-15% of the essay, approximately 150-200 words.
Q: How do I know if my topic is specific enough?A: If your topic is too general, your essay might seem bland and not engage your readers. You can determine if your topic is specific enough by stating your thesis and main arguments as clearly as possible. If you find yourself struggling to condense your topic, it’s an indication that it’s too broad.