S.

Shahbano Jabeen
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COMMUNICATION
IN WRITING
 Why is essay writing important at
University?

Essays are not just exercises in research; they are also exercises in
communication. Essays give you a chance to show what you can do:
that you understand the question asked; that you understand the
issues
z involved; and that you have done the appropriate amount of
research and reading. Essays also allow you to demonstrate your
analytical thinking and force a deep and powerful type of learning to
take place. For these reasons, they are a common form of
assessment at university. This form of assessment is frequently used
for session assignments and exams.
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ESSAY WRITING

 Identifying clear and concise writing.

 Understanding the stages of planning an essay

 Starting & finishing an essay following a basic essay structure.

 Considering the key elements within the introduction, main

body and conclusion of the essay
Understanding the stages
of planning an essay
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Main Idea no. 1 Main Idea no. 2
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A Basic Essay Structure.
 Introduction:
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion

The introduction to your essay is an important paragraph. It is the first thing the reader sees. A
good introduction should:
The key elements within the

- Orientate the reader to the general topic (determined by your essay question)
Identify the focus or purpose of the essay (determined by your essay question)
- Outline the scope, that is, the points to be covered, noting any limitations (will be guided by the
question, your research and the thesis)
- Identify the thesis (the thesis is your argument or viewpoint and will drive your essay)
- An introduction is usually one paragraph, although this is not always the case, particularly with
long essays. Some students define key terms in the introduction. Others signal within the ‘scope’
that key terms will be defined in the essay. If this is case, do this at the beginning of the body of
the essay. The decision about where to define key terms is probably guided by the length of the
definition discussion. A simple definition may sit well in the introduction. A protracted definition may
be distracting and better dealt with in the body of the essay.
The key elements within the
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion
Introduction:
 Body:
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion
The body of an essay is where you develop your essay. This occurs in a series of paragraphs with
each paragraph logically flowing to the next. Thus a good use of topic sentences and correct
paragraph structure are important.
The key elements within the

The first sentence of each paragraph, often referred to as a topic sentence, introduces the
paragraph by stating and summarizing the main point being made in the paragraph. Topic
sentences often contain transition signals, which aid in the smooth transition from one paragraph
to the next. This first sentence should inform the reader of the point you are making and how this
paragraph relates to the question. In fact, if the reader were to scan your topic sentences, they
should be able to obtain a sketch of the entire essay. This sketch should show the logical
progression of the points you are making. Absence of topic sentences leaves the reader
wondering what you are trying to say and why, ultimately confusing the reader.

Signposting is not limited to topic sentences. Signposting within your paragraph also aids the
reader. The example on the following slide well illustrates the effective use of signposts (bolded).
The key elements within the
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion
Body:
The key elements within the
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion
Body:
 Conclusion:
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion

- The conclusion is also an important paragraph in your essay. It is usually one paragraph in
length and should reflect what you said you were going to do in your introduction.

- The conclusion summarizes what you’ve said in your essay and reaffirms your thesis or
The key elements within the

argument. Do not introduce new material. Most students begin their concluding paragraph with a
transition signal, such as, ‘In conclusion’ or ‘In summary’.
The key elements within the
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion
Conclusion:
 Do I have to reference in my essay ?
Introduction, Main body and Conclusion

Yes. Yes. Yes. You will be required to reference both within your essay and at the end of your
essay in a list of references. You are required to reference every time you use the work of
someone else, whether you have changed their words (paraphrased) or used their exact words
The key elements within the

(direct quoted). If you are not sure what this means refer to referencing guides for further
explanation and examples.
z Some students mistakenly think that
presentation of an essay refers to fancy
How should I headings, clever shading and elaborate fonts.
present my It isn’t – and the extra time spent won’t result
essay?
in extra marks – in some cases quite the
. .
opposite. Professionally presented, clear, easy
to read text is the key. Always refer to your
subject outline for specific instructions. If you
are still unclear, ask your lecturer for
. .
clarification.
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