Tips for writing better academic essays

Handy hints to help you on your way

I enjoy proofreading because it helps others become better writers.  I have compiled a list of proofreading tips for when your work is completed but here are a few suggestions for getting started.

Leave plenty of time
Some people thrive under pressure (I am one of them) but it is still sensible to leave plenty of time to complete the work. Take a phased approach rather than cramming it into the last four days before the deadline.

Make sure you understand the question, and answer it
As an A level student I knew the subject matter inside out but waffled around the topic dropping in titbits of knowledge that I hoped the examiner might find fascinating. It wasn’t until my tutor hammered into me the importance of A.T.F.Q. (Answer The F*$%ing Question) that I realised that’s all the examiner wanted. The swearing made me sit up and take notice but the marked improvement in my grades made me adopt this unorthodox mantra.

Organise your research material and your own thoughts
I am a big fan of mind maps and like using them to organise my work. It doesn’t matter what method you use just ensure that you do organise your notes and research. Plan your essay before just launching into it. A (non-swearing but equally helpful) teacher taught me the adage: “if you are failing to plan you are planning to fail”. Very true…

Learn from others
Read the work of others to see their writing style and learn from it. Universities and colleges often have banks of exemplar work or past essays that you can draw inspiration from and help focus your own efforts.

But don’t copy!
Plagiarism is severely punished at every level of education and could even result in disqualification from your studies. Be mindful of how you use others’ work and make sure it is correctly attributed.

Use a draft process
Don’t just settle for your first effort. I am sure it is very good but it could always be better. Take the opportunity to check the structure, order and clarity of your work. You may also need to reduce the word count so look out for repetitive or unnecessary words and phrases.

Keep it short and sweet
Don’t use seven words where three will do. Never use extra words to make up the word count, do further research instead.

Make it look good
You’ve written a great essay; now make sure someone will want to read it. Follow any presentation guidelines that have been set and pay close attention to line spacing, font size and style and any other features that will make it easier to read.

When proofreading an essay, thesis or dissertation I look to see that a student has followed the advice above and will highlight examples that I believe need amending. If you have any questions about the service I offer please email me at
kelly@proofreadingandediting.co.uk