Content forms the basis of any well-written essay. In addition to a clear thesis or statement of purpose, an essay should contain cohesive arguments or substantive examples to support the thesis. Weak or inadequate support results in a mediocre essay, and lack of support produces an unacceptable finished essay.
Organization defines the structure of an essay, and is one of the most common grading criteria for essays required for standardized tests, college entrance or scholarship applications. Although experienced writers may opt to deviate from organization standards, well-written essays usually contain an introduction, supporting paragraphs and a conclusion. Each paragraph consists of a topic sentence, supporting sentences and a conclusion sentence that transitions to the next topic.
Mechanics of an essay represent the writing skills of the author. Sentences should possess flawless grammar free of dangling modifiers, sentence fragments and vague pronoun references. Essay punctuation clarifies meaning, unites or divides themes and facilitates flow between clauses. Conjunctions, prepositions and adverbs enhance the theme and promote cohesion, and their proper usage can produce an excellent essay.
Style provides the finishing touches to an essay. Essays should incorporate vocabulary appropriate to the subject at hand, but should also avoid excessive use of cliches, metaphors or similes. The voice of the essay should speak to the audience in their language; the use of appropriate voice is a key element to any outstanding essay.