General tips for essay writing!

Dear all,

here are a few general tips for writing your essays. These guidelines are by no means definitive, and, of course, everyone has a different writing style, but hopefully you will find these helpful!

* Answer the question!

It's very important to understand exactly what the question is asking of you. Ask yourself why is this question being asked about this text? Are there a number of things that are being asked of me? Are there a number of angles of approach to this question?

* Read the text (again!) with the question in mind.

You might be surprised to find that when you read the primary text again with the question in mind, that the text will open itself up to you in a number of different ways. Again reconsider why the question is being asked.

* Become critically aware.

While your own opinion on the text should shine through, you may find that reading secondary criticism will help you to engage with your own ideas in a better way.

* Use critics but don't rely on them!

Use secondary criticism to help you to express your own opinion as clearly as possible. However, don't merely repeat venerated interpretations of texts. Bear in mind, that these critics are offering their interpretations of texts but you don't have to necessarily agree. Use existing criticism to allow your own ideas to surface. There is no reward for drowning in a sea of disparate quotations!

* Have a clear answer in mind.

Everyone has a different approach to composition. Some people write numerous drafts which enable their ideas and emphasis to change with time. Other people do all their reading first and then piece together their opinions and quotations that support the text etc. etc. However the marker won't know about all your different drafts, or what information you chose to include and what information you chose to omit. The marker can only judge on the material presented. Make sure that you clearly state your opinion and clearly show how you are supporting this opinion using primary and secondary material.

* Be confident in your own opinion!

Essays are your opportunity to show how you have engaged with the text. By the end of the essay the marker should be able to see that you understand the primary material, are aware of the critical and contextual background to the text, and that you can interpret the text in a certain way which answers the question that has been set out.

* School of English style-guide.

Have a look at the School of English handbook for information regarding essay formatting and grammar.

Best of luck with the essays! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email me at loughnrv@tcd.ie .

I hope you all have a lovely Christmas and I look forward to having more great discussions in the New Year!

Best wishes,

Rory.