What constitutes a good essay

Essays vary in style and expression

A well written subjective essay is typically one in which you present your individual point of view on subject matter in which you have expertise. You want the reader to reflect on your thoughts and ideas as these are presented. It can consist of any topic area, for example, culture, art, science, philosophy, quantum physics, etc.

A loose, fragmentary composition is a form of essay that can be effective so long as it has coherence within and among the fragments. Too many fragmentary thoughts create chaos.

A genre-based or generic syncretic style – Syncretism is the fusion of two or more originally different inflectional styles. It is a combination of styles rather than a distinct style by itself.

Intertextuality consists of surprising comparisons, paradoxical associations, quotes, references to other literary and cultural works, philosophical or historical allusions. You can introduce digressions that are not necessarily closely related to the main subject with this style of composition. It’s worth noting this type of essay is based on the principle of loose associations. There is no chronological or thematic order or hierarchy when utilizing intertextual writing. This style is about getting to the truth, to the meaning of something. It is considered an open style in which you present a thesis or indicate the existence of a problem that you wish the reader to consider.

How to write an essay

1. Choose your topic

Your first step is to choose a topic that is of interest to you. Once you’ve picked one do some research. Analyze the topic. If it lends itself to interpretation, make sure your interpretation is original.

If you’re tasked with creating a topic yourself your challenge in this instance is to be original.

2. Create intriguing idea combinations 

Write down any questions that occur as you analyze the topic. It’s important to be open and allow many possible solutions and/or answers to emerge . It’s a good idea to stick to a particular focus, whether this be philosophical, artistic, literary, historical or biographical. Assemble your ideas in outline format. Remember to stick to your essay theme as you assemble your ideas.

3. Plan

Your outline is a compositional plan where you can move around bits and pieces to create flow.  Edit selections of previously saved thoughts. Select only the most interesting, relevant thoughts and then look for associations among the many fragments so that your final composition is both logical and coherent.

4. Be clear 

Be concise and clear in thinking. Discuss your topic with others and invite their opinion on the topic. If you obtain interesting information from others you did not think of yourself then by all means, include it.

If you’re writing a research essay don’t forget to attach relevant references such as source texts, quotations, philosophical or historical allusions. If you include quotes you’ve researched be sure to give credit. Plagiarizing – the act of stealing and passing off the ideas or words of another as your own, is frowned on and can get you in trouble. So be sure to include pertinent references.

5. Conclusion

When you’re finished your first draft read it in its entirety. If it lacks flow, rethink positioning of concepts and make modifications to improve readability. An essayist is not obliged to create a clearly defined ending, but it is helpful to summarize your thoughts by creating a short final reflective paragraph.

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