How to Write a Good Essay in 10 Steps

Essay Writing is an integral part of examinations. It is generally meant to test the ability to think and structure the thoughts systematically.

I will explain here how to approach a topic and accomplish it with ease. Once you learn the ‘what’, the ‘how’ becomes a piece of cake.

Essays can be of variant types and styles. For now, let’s categorise it under four heads:

a) Argumentative Essays- I find this the simplest option and most marks fetching. This is the type where you are supposed to choose a side and write either for or against the motion.

b) Narrative Essays- Such a topic asks you to narrate an incident. The best way to approach it is the ‘5Ws and an H’ formula. That is, frame your article by asking yourself What, Where, When, Why, Who and How related to the incident that you will be writing about.

c) Descriptive Essays- The reader or examiner expects you to describe something or somewhere, it may be an experience or a visit to any place.

d) Reflective Essays- These are thought-provoking topics, you might be asked to justify or talk about its relevance in your life or present times.

Once you’ve decided on a topic of your choice, it’s time to start putting the pieces together. The approach for the above mentioned four different types of essays shall be different. 

On a broad basis, this is what you can do that works for all-

1) Write a plan, it’s a must (even if it’s in a rough section). This will not only help you save time but your ideas shall appear coherent.

2) Begin with a quote or try an effective statement. For example, if the topic is 'A Bicycle Ride', the introductory sentence can vary from:

“Every time you miss your childhood, ride a bicycle!” -Mehmet Murat

OR

It was a bright day, apt for a field trip. Without much delay, I proposed the idea of riding to the Jayprakash Udyan, to my sibling. It was time to dust our bicycles!........

OR

Bicycle rides are always fun but I’ve a contrasting tale to narrate. What should have been a frolic filled day for me turned out to be one of the most awful incidents of my life.......

3) One paragraph one idea. Do not overdo, it’s a complete no-no.  Four to five sentences in a paragraph. That’s it.

4) Stick to the word limit. If it is 300-350, the number of paragraphs should be 8-10.

5) Stick to the same tense throughout. If it’s past tense that you begin the composition with, maintain the same till the end.

6) Smooth flow of sentences is important. Words like nevertheless, however, therefore, consequently, furthermore are referred to as Linkers. You might want to use them. No being wordy, though.

7) Maintain the chronology or a sequence of events. What happened first must be mentioned first and then the following incident. Thus giving a proper shape to your narration, else it might come out disorganized.

8) Write short sentences. This will ensure accuracy of spelling, grammar and punctuation.

9) Choose a topic that you are familiar with. Something that you can relate to is expressed better.

10) Introduction and conclusion hold equal importance. Mention what happened in the end or what was the ultimate outcome or how did it all come to an end. If it's argumentative, justify the advantage/disadvantage with a closing statement.

Ending with a quote is an option too.