QuickRef 05

Writing essays

Analysing essay topics

• Note any words of direction

These might include: discuss, discuss critically, discuss the importance of, assess, justify, evaluate, analyse.

• Understand the essay question

Make sure you know the precise meaning of every word in the essay question. Use:

1. your general dictionary for unfamiliar words, e.g. intrinsic, core values
2. and a subject-specific dictionary, e.g. for Psychology - proof, random sample, significance level.

• Think about the different parts of the question

Decide how many parts the question has.

List the areas you will probably have to research. It may help to write yourself a brief task description: "First find out what a market niche is, then see what significance this has for marketing. Next."

• Freethinking

On some topics you already have some general knowledge. To develop your own viewpoint, try to step outside your familiar cultural assumptions and values by asking questions like:

What is the 'western family'?

Is there a typical 'western family' now?

What is the function of a family, anyway?

Is it necessary? For whom?

What kind of family is/was found in non-industrial societies?

If you are having difficulty getting started, brainstorm the topic by thinking about it as broadly as you can and jot down what comes to mind.

Make a mind-map (or some rough notes) of your ideas. Add to this map as you research the essay. Try not to be swamped by other writers' views. (see QuickRef 25 for more information on brainstorming and mind-mapping)

• Other useful references

• Anderson J & Poole M 2001, Assignment and thesis writing, 4th edn, John Wiley & Sons Australia, Milton, Qld.
• Language and Learning Online website: Writing in subject areas
• Arnaudet ML & Barrett ME 1984, Approaches to academic reading and writing, Prentice Hall Regents, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.
• Oshima A and Hogue A 2006, Writing academic English, 4th edn, Pearson Longman, White Plains, NY.
• Swales J and Feak C 2004, Academic writing for graduate students: Essential tasks and skills, University of Michigan Press, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
• Deakin website: Academic style
• University of Woollongong website: Uni learning

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The structure of an essay

Introduction Approximately 10% of the total length. May be one paragraph or several, depending on essay length. Introduce the topic Provide background information Limit the scope of discussion Define/state the topic/question Present the plan of coverage including your line of argument/ viewpoint/conclusions Note: you can set your own agenda to avoid over generalisation or too broad a focus
Body Topic sentences carry the theme/outline/argument.
Conclusion Sum up your argument/information with reference to the essay question. Perhaps mention wider implications/future directions.