Chapter 3 - Essay writing. After studying this chapter you will be able to: prepare a research plan for an essay, prepare a writing plan for an essay, present persuasive arguments, supplemented with references, write a well-presented academic essay. | Chapter 3 Essay writing Learning objectives On completion of this chapter students will know how to: prepare a research plan for an essay prepare a writing plan for an essay present persuasive arguments supplemented with references write a well-presented academic essay. Why write essays? To analyse a topic closely To develop a point of view in relation to a topic To persuade the reader that your position is well supported by the ideas and information you present. Steps in writing an essay Choose the question Analyse the question Make an initial plan Locate the resources Read and make notes Write the first draft Revise and redraft Organise the reference list Proofread Choose the question Which topic interests you the most? Which has good resource material available? Which is relevant to you personally or professionally? Which would you find easiest to write about? Analyse the question Three main parts of an essay question: process words analyse, explain, discuss, . | Chapter 3 Essay writing Learning objectives On completion of this chapter students will know how to: prepare a research plan for an essay prepare a writing plan for an essay present persuasive arguments supplemented with references write a well-presented academic essay. Why write essays? To analyse a topic closely To develop a point of view in relation to a topic To persuade the reader that your position is well supported by the ideas and information you present. Steps in writing an essay Choose the question Analyse the question Make an initial plan Locate the resources Read and make notes Write the first draft Revise and redraft Organise the reference list Proofread Choose the question Which topic interests you the most? Which has good resource material available? Which is relevant to you personally or professionally? Which would you find easiest to write about? Analyse the question Three main parts of an essay question: process words analyse, explain, discuss, compare, contrast, describe, justify, criticise, interpret, argue content words describe the content you will focus on in the essay limit words information limits (. time, place, group) academic limits (word length, due date) Types of essays Two main types of essays: explain (an essay that explains a process or situation) argue (an essay that argues a point of view). In analysing the question, determine which type of essay you are expected to write. Many essays are a combination of both types. Plan your essay Do this as soon as you have analysed the question. Use the knowledge you already have about the topic. The plan will: help you clarify your point of view give you direction (get you started) point you towards resources. Remember: this is only an initial plan and you can add to it as you progress towards the final document. Structure of an essay Introduction (10%) Define the question and the key terms. Give a thesis statement: this is the main idea you will develop in
