How to Write an Academic Essay: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the question properly Don’t start writing until you’ve broken down the question. Highlight keywords, command words (like ‘analyse’, ‘evaluate’, or ‘compare’), and make sure you know exactly what’s being asked. If you're unsure, ask your tutor. Guesswork leads to irrelevant arguments and weak marks.

Useful resource: www.durham.ac.uk/

2. Plan with structure, not guesswork Use a clear outline to map out your ideas. Start with your main argument, then work out your supporting points. Group similar ideas together and build your paragraphs around them. This keeps your essay focused and avoids repetition.

Try this planner: www.york.ac.uk/

3. Start strong: your introduction matters Your opening should do three things:

• Hook the reader with a bold statement or statistic

• Define any tricky terms from the question

• Clearly state your argument or line of reasoning (this is your thesis) Keep it tight. No waffle. No "In this essay I will..."

  
  

More on strong introductions: www.scribbr.co.uk/

4. Build smart paragraphs using PEE (Point, Evidence, Explanation) Each paragraph should start with a clear point. Back it up with evidence from academic sources. Then explain how it connects to your main argument. Use topic sentences to keep the flow strong. End with a sentence that leads into the next idea.

For advanced tips: www.ucl.ac.uk/

5. End with impact, not a bland summary Your conclusion shouldn’t just repeat the intro. Instead, show how your argument has developed. Reflect on the wider significance of your points. Leave the reader with a final insight that sticks. Avoid phrases like "In conclusion" or "To sum up" – they waste space.

Guide: www.essex.ac.uk/

6. Edit like your grade depends on it (because it does) Step away, then read your essay aloud. Cut anything vague or repetitive. Check your referencing is accurate and consistent. Use Grammarly or a style checker to fix grammar slips. If possible, get feedback from someone else before you submit.

Editing checklist: www.sussex.ac.uk/