Top 10 Tips for College Level Essays

I noticed that many students in college come out of high school unprepared to write academic essays, so I wanted to provide some simple tips.

The Top Ten

  1. Cite sources

    Quote authors and other relevant sources. You need to properly source and credit them, or you risk being accused of plagiarism. Additionally, quoting experts on a specific topic demonstrates that you are discussing a legitimate academic subject, rather than simply expressing your own opinions.

    Paraphrasing is optional, but as long as you do not alter the main topic and properly cite the author, you should be fine.

    This is likely the most important point.

  2. Follow the assignment

    Read the assignment at least three times and read it carefully. You must fulfill the teacher's requirements. If your paper is brilliant but fails to answer the questions posed, it is not a good essay. You cannot merely write about whatever you want.

  3. Keep a neutral tone

    Unless it is a personal essay, avoid attempting to be funny, witty, sarcastic, sad, angry, or joyful in your essay writing. Essay writing is distinct from creative writing.

    Maintaining a neutral tone is key to ensuring that readers approach your essay with a neutral perspective.

  4. Use proper MLA or APA format

    Look it up online. Create a sample page in MS Word (or whichever office suite you use) that has the appropriate font, header, and spacing. Also, learn the correct method for citing sources.

  5. Avoid using the same word too often

    Pay attention to how often you use certain words, especially terms like "this" and "that."

  6. Use specific words

    "People should vote" → "Citizens should vote"

    "The weather is bad" → "The weather is inclement"

  7. Improve vocabulary

    It would be unfortunate if your college professor couldn't understand unfamiliar or rare words in your essay. Unless you have a private one-on-one tutor, spending time looking up word definitions detracts from reading other essays. However, a rich vocabulary can help convey your intelligence while keeping your points concise.

    Take quizzes on websites like Vocabulary.com.

  8. Avoid personal pronouns

    Avoid using "I" or "you," unless you are quoting someone.

  9. Follow the required length

    Don't fall short of the required length, but don't exceed it either. Many teachers are busy and dislike having to read more than necessary. Additionally, length alone won't impress a teacher.

  10. Avoid repetition

    11. The Newcomers
  11. ?

    Avoid citing or using Wikipedia

  12. ?

    Avoid exceeding the maximum number of sources required in the assignment

    13. The Contenders

  13. Avoid contractions

    I use this strategy to make my essays appear longer because I struggle to write essays that exceed three pages.

    E.g., don't use "can't," "won't," or "shouldn't." Instead, use "cannot," "will not," and "should not."

  14. Avoid immature content

    In other words, refrain from using acronyms or colloquial language that you would use when texting friends or family members. Avoid swear words as well.

  15. Avoid absolutes

    Avoid words like "always," "never," "all," and "none," as there are exceptions to many rules. Instead, opt for terms like "often," "rarely," "almost all," and "almost none."

    Yes, this makes the essay appear slightly less unprofessional.

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