An essay is a piece of writing from a personal point of view that methodically examines and evaluates a topic or issue. The essay is typically short (in comparison to a novel or story book) and subjective. Writing an essay can be a difficult task for many people, especially when they are assigned to write an essay for school. The following tips from expert essay writers can help you get started on the right foot and avoid some of the most common mistakes.

Choose your topic wisely: The best essays are written on topics that you have a deep interest in, as this ensures that you’ll write with conviction and passion. Try brainstorming or freewriting to come up with a list of ideas related to your chosen subject. Try to narrow down the list of ideas as you go, so that you can focus your efforts and write an essay that will answer the question or meet the needs of your assignment.

Do your research: Take time to read and study primary and secondary sources in your area of inquiry. This will give you a sense of the current state of knowledge in the field, as well as provide you with evidence and a basis for your argument. Identify your position and angle on the issue, and write out a clear thesis to guide you throughout the writing process.

Start with a strong hook: The first sentence of your essay should grab the reader’s attention and pique their curiosity. This can be done through a question, a bold statement, a fact, or a personal anecdote.

Include signposting: Be sure to provide a clear outline of your essay for yourself and your reader by including transition words such as “however,” “in addition,” and “on the other hand.” Using these will allow you to connect the dots for the reader so that they can follow your argument from one idea to the next.

Don’t forget the details: It is important to pay close attention to the details of your essay, especially when it comes to citations. Different academic styles like MLA, APA, and Chicago have their own set of rules that you must adhere to in order to present your information in a cohesive and professional manner.

Embrace continuous practice: Like any other skill, writing takes practice to master. Make sure to dedicate time to writing exercises and essay prompts on a regular basis in order to develop your skills and create an impactful essay.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help: When it comes to writing an essay, it’s always a good idea to have someone else read through your work and offer constructive criticism. This will enable you to spot errors and inconsistencies in your work that you may have missed. A fresh set of eyes can also help you to rework your argument and make it more persuasive. Then, after you have polished your essay, be sure to proofread it carefully for spelling and grammatical errors before submission.