Apply the principle of the three M's: Method, Motive and Message. These define your essay and achieve communication goals.
Choose the appropriate type of essay. A descriptive essay explains an event, place, person or idea. A narrative essay tells a story. An expository essay describes how to do something. A persuasive essay convinces the reader to support your conclusion.
Write with a purpose. Writing that is meaningful has a motive beyond getting the grade.
Create a thesis statement by answering the question "What is your essay about?" Be clear about who your audience is and write to them.
Start with an introduction. Use a quote from an expert on your topic, a thought-provoking rhetorical question or a catchy phrase to "hook" your readers. Draw them into the subject of your essay. Make it interesting. Peak their curiosity and they'll want to keep reading.
Write a topic sentence to begin each paragraph in the body of the essay. Include four to six supportive sentences and a transitional sentence to close your paragraph. This ensures that your subject is fully explained. Create interest using a variety of simple, compound and complex sentences.
The body of an effective essay contains at least three paragraphs.
Summarize your ideas in the closing paragraph. Restate the goal of your thesis statement. Conclude with another quote, rhetorical question or phrase to add emphasis.
Wait to edit your essay, if time permits. Time and distance from your writing produce a sense of clarity.
Record yourself reading the essay and listen to it.
Extract the introduction, topic and transitional sentences from your essay to verify your essay has a logical framework of ideas. Make the appropriate adjustments, if necessary.
Use resources like a thesaurus, style guide and dictionary to correct any mistakes.