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  • 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

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To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

This article is suitable for native English speakers and those who are  learning English at Oxford Royale Academy and are just taking their first steps into essay writing.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument . Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of  summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , politics , business , medicine  and engineering .

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How to Use Appropriate Language While Writing an Essay

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Writing an essay can be quite a task! Be it an application essay or an assignment, there are multiple elements that separate a good essay from a great one. And language happens to be one such contributing element. Using appropriate language while writing an essay can help you communicate your ideas more effectively and thus convince readers of your point of view.

Tips for Using Suitable Language in an Essay

To make sure that your language is appropriate while writing an essay, you should: 

1. Use Clear, Concise Language

Any piece of writing can be made clear and concise by eliminating grammatical errors and avoiding complex sentences. In case there are complex sentences in your essay, use appropriate punctuation to separate their different parts and improve readability . Using active voice instead of passive voice too can contribute to crafting better essays. 

2. Avoid Jargon

Although jargon usage is often inevitable in academic writing, it is better to avoid unnecessary jargon while writing essays. Using complex language tends to confuse the reader and can make your essay difficult to understand. The reader may, for instance, misunderstand the context in which your essay is written. Using simple and plain language instead will allow the reader to grasp the content and context of your essay, making it easy to follow.

3. Read up about Homophones

Homophones are words that have the same pronunciation but different meaning and spelling. And without a good understanding of such words, you may end up confusing one word with another while writing. For example, you might use “your” while intending to use “you’re,” which can lead to grammatical errors in your essays. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention while using homophones and crosscheck to see if you are using the right word. 

4. Steer Clear of Direct Translation

If English isn’t your native language, then you must be all-too-familiar with the urge to use a quote or an idiom from your native language while writing an essay in English. While it is okay to use English quotes and idioms in essays, it is never a good idea to directly translate a quote or an idiom from your native language to English and use it in your essay. Since it is possible to get the translation wrong or incorrectly convey the context while translating, you’d be better off not using directly translated text. 

5. Understand the Different Levels of Formality

While most academic writing is formal in nature, students are sometimes allowed to use semi-formal or informal language while writing an essay. It is sometimes okay to use a little humor in your writing. However, you should refrain from using informal language and know how much informality is too much. It is better to check with your professor and the writing guidelines before you begin your essay to avoid having to rewrite it in a more formal tone. 

6. Avoid Slang and Idioms

As stated before, it is best to use formal or semi-formal language while writing an academic essay . Since slang and idioms are considered informal language, they are best avoided altogether. Besides, they can confuse non-native English readers, making essays difficult to understand. Also, since the relationship between a professor and a student is mostly formal, it makes little sense to use informal language while writing an essay. 

7. Use Positive Language

Consider this example to understand the importance of using positive language in your essays. If you’re asked to write a persuasive essay , then you should know how to use language that persuades the reader to see your point. Using biased language, expressing too much skepticism, or adopting an excessively negative stance instead can make the reader uncomfortable and put them off. Therefore, it is important to use positive language that is free of negative stereotypes and biases while writing your essay.

8. Employ a Descriptive Writing Style

Writing experts believe that the “show, don’t tell” writing technique is highly effective when it comes to any type of writing. Using descriptive language can make your writing interesting and hook your readers. Besides, sensory details can help a reader understand a setup or a situation better. For instance, instead of saying: “ I was scared when I saw something move in my basement ,” it is better to say “A chill ran down my spine when a shadowy presence in my basement suddenly caught my attention.”  

Besides these, a few other things you can do to write a great essay are:

Remember to check the essay guidelines before you begin writing your essay. If your professor expects you to follow a style guide or manual, make sure to thoroughly go through the writing rules mentioned in it. Also, get your essay read by a peer, senior, or family member and ask for their feedback or suggestions. 

Pay attention to language and grammar and always edit your essay before submitting.

Using appropriate language while writing an essay is an important skill that helps students put across their opinion clearly.

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17 academic words and phrases to use in your essay

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For the vast majority of students, essay writing doesn't always come easily. Writing at academic level is an acquired skill that can literally take years to master – indeed, many students find they only start to feel really confident writing essays just as their undergraduate course comes to an end!

If this is you, and you've come here looking for words and phrases to use in your essay, you're in the right place. We’ve pulled together a list of essential academic words you can use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essays .

Whilst your ideas and arguments should always be your own, borrowing some of the words and phrases listed below is a great way to articulate your ideas more effectively, and ensure that you keep your reader’s attention from start to finish.

It goes without saying (but we'll say it anyway) that there's a certain formality that comes with academic writing. Casual and conversational phrases have no place. Obviously, there are no LOLs, LMFAOs, and OMGs. But formal academic writing can be much more subtle than this, and as we've mentioned above, requires great skill.

So, to get you started on polishing your own essay writing ability, try using the words in this list as an inspirational starting point.

Words to use in your introduction

The trickiest part of academic writing often comes right at the start, with your introduction. Of course, once you’ve done your plan and have your arguments laid out, you need to actually put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and begin your essay.

You need to consider that your reader doesn’t have a clue about your topic or arguments, so your first sentence must summarise these. Explain what your essay is going to talk about as though you were explaining it to a five year old – without losing the formality of your academic writing, of course! To do this, use any of the below words or phrases to help keep you on track.

1. Firstly, secondly, thirdly

Even though it sounds obvious, your argument will be clearer if you deliver the ideas in the right order. These words can help you to offer clarity and structure to the way you expose your ideas. This is an extremely effective method of presenting the facts clearly. Don’t be too rigid and feel you have to number each point, but using this system can be a good way to get an argument off the ground, and link arguments together.

2. In view of; in light of; considering

These essay phrases are useful to begin your essay. They help you pose your argument based on what other authors have said or a general concern about your research. They can also both be used when a piece of evidence sheds new light on an argument. Here’s an example: The result of the American invasion has severely impaired American interests in the Middle East, exponentially increasing popular hostility to the United States throughout the region, a factor which has proved to be a powerful recruitment tool for extremist terrorist groups (Isakhan, 2015). Considering [or In light of / In view of] the perceived resulting threat to American interests, it could be argued that the Bush administration failed to fully consider the impact of their actions before pushing forward with the war.

3. According to X; X stated that; referring to the views of X

Introducing the views of an author who has a comprehensive knowledge of your particular area of study is a crucial part of essay writing. Including a quote that fits naturally into your work can be a bit of a struggle, but these academic phrases provide a great way in.

Even though it’s fine to reference a quote in your introduction, we don’t recommend you start your essay with a direct quote. Use your own words to sum up the views you’re mentioning, for example:

As Einstein often reiterated, experiments can prove theories, but experiments don’t give birth to theories.

Rather than:

“A theory can be proved by experiment, but no path leads from experiment to the birth of a theory.” {Albert Einstein, 1954, Einstein: A Biography}.

See the difference?

And be sure to reference correctly too, when using quotes or paraphrasing someone else's words.

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Adding information and flow

The flow of your essay is extremely important. You don’t want your reader to be confused by the rhythm of your writing and get distracted away from your argument, do you? No! So, we recommend using some of the following ‘flow’ words, which are guaranteed to help you articulate your ideas and arguments in a chronological and structured order.

4. Moreover; furthermore; in addition; what’s more

These types of academic phrases are perfect for expanding or adding to a point you’ve already made without interrupting the flow altogether. “Moreover”, “furthermore” and “in addition” are also great linking phrases to begin a new paragraph.

Here are some examples: The dissociation of tau protein from microtubules destabilises the latter resulting in changes to cell structure, and neuronal transport. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction leads to further oxidative stress causing increased levels of nitrous oxide, hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidases.

On the data of this trial, no treatment recommendations should be made. The patients are suspected, but not confirmed, to suffer from pneumonia. Furthermore, five days is too short a follow up time to confirm clinical cure.

5. In order to; to that end; to this end

These are helpful academic phrases to introduce an explanation or state your aim. Oftentimes your essay will have to prove how you intend to achieve your goals. By using these sentences you can easily expand on points that will add clarity to the reader.

For example: My research entailed hours of listening and recording the sound of whales in order to understand how they communicate.

Dutch tech companies offer support in the fight against the virus. To this end, an online meeting took place on Wednesday...

Even though we recommend the use of these phrases, DO NOT use them too often. You may think you sound like a real academic but it can be a sign of overwriting!

6. In other words; to put it another way; that is; to put it more simply

Complement complex ideas with simple descriptions by using these sentences. These are excellent academic phrases to improve the continuity of your essay writing. They should be used to explain a point you’ve already made in a slightly different way. Don’t use them to repeat yourself, but rather to elaborate on a certain point that needs further explanation. Or, to succinctly round up what just came before.

For example: A null hypothesis is a statement that there is no relationship between phenomena. In other words, there is no treatment effect.

Nothing could come to be in this pre-world time, “because no part of such a time possesses, as compared with any other, a distinguishing condition of existence rather than non-existence.” That is, nothing exists in this pre-world time, and so there can be nothing that causes the world to come into existence.

7. Similarly; likewise; another key fact to remember; as well as; an equally significant aspect of

These essay words are a good choice to add a piece of information that agrees with an argument or fact you just mentioned. In academic writing, it is very relevant to include points of view that concur with your opinion. This will help you to situate your research within a research context.

Also , academic words and phrases like the above are also especially useful so as not to repeat the word ‘also’ too many times. (We did that on purpose to prove our point!) Your reader will be put off by the repetitive use of simple conjunctions. The quality of your essay will drastically improve just by using academic phrases and words such as ‘similarly’, ‘as well as’, etc. Here, let us show you what we mean:

In 1996, then-transport minister Steve Norris enthused about quadrupling cycling trips by 2012. Similarly, former prime minister David Cameron promised a “cycling revolution” in 2013…

Or Renewable Energy Initiative (AREI) aims to bridge the gap of access to electricity across the continent (...). Another key fact to remember is that it must expand cost-efficient access to electricity to nearly 1 billion people.

The wording “not only… but also” is a useful way to elaborate on a similarity in your arguments but in a more striking way.

writing an essay language

Comparing and contrasting information

Academic essays often include opposite opinions or information in order to prove a point. It is important to show all the aspects that are relevant to your research. Include facts and researchers’ views that disagree with a point of your essay to show your knowledge of your particular field of study. Below are a few words and ways of introducing alternative arguments.

8. Conversely; however; alternatively; on the contrary; on the other hand; whereas

Finding a seamless method to present an alternative perspective or theory can be hard work, but these terms and phrases can help you introduce the other side of the argument. Let's look at some examples:

89% of respondents living in joint families reported feeling financially secure. Conversely, only 64% of those who lived in nuclear families said they felt financially secure.

The first protagonist has a social role to fill in being a father to those around him, whereas the second protagonist relies on the security and knowledge offered to him by Chaplin.

“On the other hand” can also be used to make comparisons when worded together with “on the one hand.”

9. By contrast; in comparison; then again; that said; yet

These essay phrases show contrast, compare facts, and present uncertainty regarding a point in your research. “That said” and “yet” in particular will demonstrate your expertise on a topic by showing the conditions or limitations of your research area. For example:

All the tests were positive. That said, we must also consider the fact that some of them had inconclusive results.

10. Despite this; provided that; nonetheless

Use these phrases and essay words to demonstrate a positive aspect of your subject-matter regardless of lack of evidence, logic, coherence, or criticism. Again, this kind of information adds clarity and expertise to your academic writing.

A good example is:

Despite the criticism received by X, the popularity of X remains undiminished.

11. Importantly; significantly; notably; another key point

Another way to add contrast is by highlighting the relevance of a fact or opinion in the context of your research. These academic words help to introduce a sentence or paragraph that contains a very meaningful point in your essay.

Giving examples

A good piece of academic writing will always include examples. Illustrating your essay with examples will make your arguments stronger. Most of the time, examples are a way to clarify an explanation; they usually offer an image that the reader can recognise. The most common way to introduce an illustration is “for example.” However, in order not to repeat yourself here are a few other options.

12. For instance; to give an illustration of; to exemplify; to demonstrate; as evidence; to elucidate

The academic essays that are receiving top marks are the ones that back up every single point made. These academic phrases are a useful way to introduce an example. If you have a lot of examples, avoid repeating the same phrase to facilitate the readability of your essay.

Here’s an example:

‘High involvement shopping’, an experiential process described by Wu et al. (2015, p. 299) relies upon the development of an identity-based alliance between the customer and the brand. Celebrity status at Prada, for example, has created an alliance between the brand and a new generation of millennial customers.

writing an essay language

Concluding your essay

Concluding words for essays are necessary to wrap up your argument. Your conclusion must include a brief summary of the ideas that you just exposed without being redundant. The way these ideas are expressed should lead to the final statement and core point you have arrived at in your present research.

13. In conclusion; to conclude; to summarise; in sum; in the final analysis; on close analysis

These are phrases for essays that will introduce your concluding paragraph. You can use them at the beginning of a sentence. They will show the reader that your essay is coming to an end:

On close analysis and appraisal, we see that the study by Cortis lacks essential features of the highest quality quantitative research.

14. Persuasive; compelling

Essay words like these ones can help you emphasize the most relevant arguments of your paper. Both are used in the same way: “the most persuasive/compelling argument is…”.

15. Therefore; this suggests that; it can be seen that; the consequence is

When you’re explaining the significance of the results of a piece of research, these phrases provide the perfect lead up to your explanation.

16. Above all; chiefly; especially; most significantly; it should be noted

Your summary should include the most relevant information or research factor that guided you to your conclusion. Contrary to words such as “persuasive” or “compelling”, these essay words are helpful to draw attention to an important point. For example:

The feasibility and effectiveness of my research has been proven chiefly in the last round of laboratory tests.

Film noir is, and will continue to be, highly debatable, controversial, and unmarketable – but above all, for audience members past, present and to come, extremely enjoyable as a form of screen media entertainment.

17. All things considered

This essay phrase is meant to articulate how you give reasons to your conclusions. It means that after you considered all the aspects related to your study, you have arrived to the conclusion you are demonstrating.

After mastering the use of these academic words and phrases, we guarantee you will see an immediate change in the quality of your essays. The structure will be easier to follow, and the reader’s experience will improve. You’ll also feel more confident articulating your ideas and using facts and examples. So jot them all down, and watch your essays go from ‘good’ to ‘great’!

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100+ Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay

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How to Write a Great Essay in English! This lesson provides 100+ useful words, transition word s and expressions used in writing an essay. Let’s take a look!

The secret to a successful essay doesn’t just lie in the clever things you talk about and the way you structure your points.

Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay

Overview of an essay.

100+ Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay

Useful Phrases for Proficiency Essays

Developing the argument

The other side of the argument

Ordering elements

Adding elements

Accepting other points of view

Personal opinion

Others’ opinions

Introducing examples

Introducing facts

Saying what you think is true

Accepting other points to a certain degree

Emphasizing particular points

Moderating, agreeing, disagreeing

Consequences

How to Write a Great Essay | Image 1

100+ Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay 1

How to Write a Great Essay | Image 2

100+ Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay 2

Phrases For Balanced Arguments

Introduction

How to Write a Great Essay | Image 3

100+ Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay 3

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thank u so much its really usefull

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He or she who masters the English language rules the world!

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Thank you so so much, this helped me in my essays with A+

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Language Used in Academic Writing

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Imagine your friend asks you to describe your favorite book to him. You excitedly explain all of your favorite parts without paying attention to your use of grammar, vocabulary, or slang. Since you are talking about this book in a casual conversation, you don't have to worry about those aspects.

But now imagine you have to write an essay about the book for English class. Now you do have to think about those components. This is because essays for school require formal academic writing. Using the proper language for academic writing is important because it helps ensure easy-to-read and credible essays that make an intellectual impact in their field.

What is Academic Writing

Academic writing includes papers and essays.

Academic writing is scholarly writing done for academic institutions.

Writers must use academic language when writing papers for an academic institution, such as a high school or university. When writers submit writing to an academic journal or organization, they must use formal academic language. There are several types of academic writing, and the type a writer uses will depend on the purpose of the work.

Types of Academic Writing

There are four main types of academic writing: descriptive, analytical, persuasive, and critical.

Descriptive

Descriptive academic writing is straightforward writing in which writers describe facts. For instance, a report about the effectiveness of a program or the status of global warming are both pieces of descriptive academic writing.

Analytical academic writing is writing that requires analyzing facts and information. Analytical academic writing often includes some descriptive writing, but after presenting the facts, writers need to analyze the information to reveal insightful connections and theories.

Persuasive writing is a type of analytical academic writing in which a writer tries to convince the reader that their point of view on a topic is the right one. In a piece of persuasive writing, the writer states an argument and uses multiple pieces of relevant evidence to support that argument.

Critical writing is a type that students at the undergraduate or post-graduate level often use. Critical writing consists of in-depth analysis and features at least two perspectives on a topic. For instance, detailed literature reviews can be examples of critical writing because they analyze the insights and limitations of previous research on a topic.

Language Used in Academic Writing, Three Types of Academic Writing, Woman Writing in Notebook, StudySmarter

Components of Academic Writing Language

Several key components of academic writing include formal tone, academic features, and appropriate language.

Language Formalities and Tone Used in Academic Writing

Formal academic writing is writing that is direct, objective, and respectful. It is the opposite of how one would speak or write in a casual manner to a friend.

Instead of using colloquial expressions, slang, and incomplete sentences, formal writing uses complete words and sentences, follows all grammar rules, and uses a formal tone.

For example, the sentence "To whom it may concern," establishes a respectful tone. This is different from, "Hey, what's up?" The latter would be used among friends in an informal setting.

Features of Language Used in Academic Writing

In addition to being formal, the language used in academic writing should be:

Writers should avoid using too many words in their writing. Getting straight to the point ensures that all parts of an essay contribute to the development of the main ideas. For example, imagine a writer is writing about the theme of justice in literature and wants to mention Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) as evidence.

Not Concise: "The American author Harper Lee also wrote a book a long time ago about justice called To Kill a Mockingbird . The book is about a little girl named Scout who loves her brother Jem and is curious about her neighbor Boo Radley. She also loves her father Atticus a lot, who is a lawyer defending an innocent African American man against a felony charge in a small town. The man is innocent, but because of systemic racism he is found guilty, which shows the problems in the justice system."

Concise: "At the height of the United States' civil rights movement, Harper Lee wrote To Kill a Mockingbird , a book about an African American man who is wrongfully convicted of a felony despite a clear lack of evidence."

Writing should be as direct and easy to understand as possible. To ensure this, writers should use straightforward words to describe a concept, rather than fluffy or passive language. They should also avoid esoteric vocabulary. For example, imagine a writer wants to analyze Shakespeare's use of metaphor in his poetry. The following examples show the difference between unclear and clear writing on the topic:

Unclear: "Shakespeare's extravagant metaphors were filled with passion and intertwined the concept of nature with the power of the human body.

Clear: "Shakespeare uses metaphors to compare nature to the human heart."

Evidence-Based

Effective academic writing is based on evidence. Writers should avoid making claims that they cannot support. They need to point to facts or quotes from a text to prove that what they are saying is credible.

Academic writing also typically includes citations. All information from outside sources should be cited according to the required style guide, such as MLA or APA . Correctly citing information ensures that writing is credible and original.

Types of Appropriate Language Used in Academic Writing

The language used in academic writing is also:

Academic writers should avoid using personal pronouns such as "I," "you," and "we." They should also refrain from discussing their own lives.

A critical part of evidence-based formal writing is using objective language. Objective language does not use personal opinions. Writers should strive to avoid opinionated language and base their claims on fact .

Imagine a writer is writing an essay about a book and says, "This is an enjoyable book to read!" This is not the proper language for academic writing, because it is a casual expression of an opinion . Instead, writers need to use evidence to present objective claims. For example, the writer should say, "The author compares the seasons to the temporary nature of love through the use of metaphors and similes." This sentence is an example of academic writing because it makes a claim about the author's actions and uses figurative language as evidence.

Writers should avoid vague, general language that fills space and doesn't add substantial ideas. Words should have a precise meaning.

For example, writers often include vague words in their writing such as "very" or "thing." Instead, writers should use more descriptive language that relates directly to the topic.

Formal language does not mean fancy language. Sometimes writers can be tempted to use lots of complex vocabulary to make a point. This may confuse readers and weaken the quality of a paper. Instead, writers should strive to be as straightforward as possible and use simple words to make complex points.

Features to Avoid in Formal Academic Writing

In addition to knowing what to include in academic writing, writers must know what to avoid.

Conjunctions

Formal writing requires writing out words completely and not using conjunctions and slang. For instance, instead of using words like "didn't" or "she's" a writer using academic language should write "did not" and "she is."

Idiomatic Expressions

Formal writing should also be original and direct. Idiomatic expressions are informal figurative expressions that make for dynamic conversation but do not belong in academic writing. For instance, the idiomatic expression: "that's the best thing since sliced bread" is a sentence with a strong image, but it can be confusing for readers and does not support an academic thesis.

Language used in academic writing. sliced bread. StudySmarter.

Incomplete Sentences

In addition to using complete words, language in academic writing should always use complete sentences. This means that writers should avoid sentence fragments, and they need to connect ideas clearly.

Slang words are informal words or phrases people use in everyday social contexts. For example, "lit" and "no cap" are slang expressions. A writer should not include slang in formal writing because not all readers understand slang.

It is important to understand the language used in academic writing when preparing for standardized exams. Students who do not use academic language on formal standardized tests can lose points. For instance, some standardized English exams assess students on "sophistication," which scores the students' use of vivid, persuasive writing. To earn such points, students need to avoid the above negative features and ensure they use concise, clear, and evidence-based language.

Examples of Language Used in Academic Writing

The following is an example of descriptive academic writing about the book To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

To Kill A Mockingbird is a fiction book about a girl named Scout who is growing up in the town of Maycomb, Alabama. Scout's father, Atticus, is a lawyer tasked with defending Tom Robinson, an African-American man accused of a felony. Atticus proves that Tom is innocent in court, but the jury still finds him guilty because of systemic racism."

There are several features of formal language used in the above paragraph, including the following:

The author uses complete sentences.

The author uses objective language and avoids stating opinions about the book.

The author also avoids contractions by using phrases like "who is" instead of "who's."

The author uses straightforward and concise language. Sentences are short, specific, and to the point.

What other elements of academic writing can you identify in this passage?

Language Used in Academic Writing - Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions about Language Used in Academic Writing

--> what are some examples of academic language in writing.

Academic language uses complete words such as "did not" instead of the contraction "didn't." It also has a more formal tone. For instance, writing "To Whom It May Concern" is more formal than "Hey what's up?"

--> What are the main language features of academic writing?

Language used in academic writing is concise, clear, and evidence-based. 

--> What are the components of academic language in writing?

Academic language uses a formal tone, concise words, and impersonal, objective language. 

--> What should be avoided in academic writing?

Conjunctions, idiomatic expressions, incomplete sentences, and slang should be avoided in academic writing. 

--> How many types of language are used in academic writing?

Some types of language used in academic writing are descriptive, analytical, and persuasive.

Final Language Used in Academic Writing Quiz

What is academic writing?

Show answer

Academic writing is scholarly writing done for academic institutions. 

Show question

Which of the following is not a feature of academic writing?

Idiomatic expressions 

What are the four main types of academic writing?

Descriptive, Analytical, Persuasive, and Critical

What is descriptive academic writing?

Writing that describes facts and ideas. 

True or False: Academic writing should include personal pronouns such as "I" and "you." 

False. Academic writing should not use personal language. 

Which of the following is a type of language used in academic writing?

What is an idiomatic expression? Should they be used in academic writing? 

An idiomatic expression is an informal figurative expression like, "it's the best thing since sliced bread!" These should not be used in academic writing. 

What is objective language? 

Objective language is language that is not based on opinion. 

Which of the following should be avoided in academic writing?

True or False: Academic writing is evidence-based. 

True. Academic writers should avoid using opinions and make sure their claims can be supported with evidence. 

When do you use academic language?

High school

It  is writing that requires analyzing facts and information.

Analytical academic writing

It  is a type of analytical academic writing in which a writer tries to convince the reader that their point of view on a topic is the right one.

Persuasive academic writing

It  consists of in-depth analysis and features at least two perspectives on a topic.  

Critical academic writing

What does it mean to be concise?

Getting to the point.

Clear language is:

Academic writing should be based in:

How much academic writing contains citations?

Which are personal pronouns:

Academic writing should be objective.

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Grammar Guide

Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words

Hannah Yang

Hannah Yang

Speculative Fiction Author

words to use in an essay

It’s not easy to write an academic essay.

Many students struggle to word their arguments in a logical and concise way.

To make matters worse, academic essays need to adhere to a certain level of formality, so we can’t always use the same word choices in essay writing that we would use in daily life.

If you’re struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay.

Words to Use in the Essay Introduction

Words to use in the body of the essay, words to use in your essay conclusion, how to improve your essay writing vocabulary.

The introduction is one of the hardest parts of an essay to write.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, and you want to hook your reader. If the introduction isn’t effective, the reader might not even bother to read the rest of the essay.

That’s why it’s important to be thoughtful and deliberate with the words you choose at the beginning of your essay.

Many students use a quote in the introductory paragraph to establish credibility and set the tone for the rest of the essay.

When you’re referencing another author or speaker, try using some of these phrases:

Example: To use the words of Hillary Clinton, “You cannot have maternal health without reproductive health.”

Near the end of the introduction, you should state the thesis to explain the central point of your paper.

If you’re not sure how to introduce your thesis, try using some of these phrases:

Phrases to introduce a thesis

Example: In this essay, I will explain why dress codes in public schools are detrimental to students.

After you’ve stated your thesis, it’s time to start presenting the arguments you’ll use to back up that central idea.

When you’re introducing the first of a series of arguments, you can use the following words:

Example: First , consider the effects that this new social security policy would have on low-income taxpayers.

All these words and phrases will help you create a more successful introduction and convince your audience to read on.

The body of your essay is where you’ll explain your core arguments and present your evidence.

It’s important to choose words and phrases for the body of your essay that will help the reader understand your position and convince them you’ve done your research.

Let’s look at some different types of words and phrases that you can use in the body of your essay, as well as some examples of what these words look like in a sentence.

Transition Words and Phrases

Transitioning from one argument to another is crucial for a good essay.

It’s important to guide your reader from one idea to the next so they don’t get lost or feel like you’re jumping around at random.

Transition phrases and linking words show your reader you’re about to move from one argument to the next, smoothing out their reading experience. They also make your writing look more professional.

The simplest transition involves moving from one idea to a separate one that supports the same overall argument. Try using these phrases when you want to introduce a second correlating idea:

Example: Additionally , public parks increase property value because home buyers prefer houses that are located close to green, open spaces.

Another type of transition involves restating. It’s often useful to restate complex ideas in simpler terms to help the reader digest them. When you’re restating an idea, you can use the following words:

Example: “The research showed that 53% of students surveyed expressed a mild or strong preference for more on-campus housing. In other words , over half the students wanted more dormitory options.”

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Often, you’ll need to provide examples to illustrate your point more clearly for the reader. When you’re about to give an example of something you just said, you can use the following words:

Example: Humans have long tried to exert control over our natural environment. For instance , engineers reversed the Chicago River in 1900, causing it to permanently flow backward.

Sometimes, you’ll need to explain the impact or consequence of something you’ve just said.

When you’re drawing a conclusion from evidence you’ve presented, try using the following words:

Example: “There wasn’t enough government funding to support the rest of the physics experiment. Thus , the team was forced to shut down their experiment in 1996.”

Phrases to draw conclusions

When introducing an idea that bolsters one you’ve already stated, or adds another important aspect to that same argument, you can use the following words:

Example: The volcanic eruption disrupted hundreds of thousands of people. Moreover , it impacted the local flora and fauna as well, causing nearly a hundred species to go extinct.

Often, you'll want to present two sides of the same argument. When you need to compare and contrast ideas, you can use the following words:

Example: On the one hand , the Black Death was undoubtedly a tragedy because it killed millions of Europeans. On the other hand , it created better living conditions for the peasants who survived.

Finally, when you’re introducing a new angle that contradicts your previous idea, you can use the following phrases:

Example: Shakespearean plays are classic works of literature that have stood the test of time. Having said that , I would argue that Shakespeare isn’t the most accessible form of literature to teach students in the twenty-first century.

Good essays include multiple types of logic. You can use a combination of the transitions above to create a strong, clear structure throughout the body of your essay.

Strong Verbs for Academic Writing

Verbs are especially important for writing clear essays. Often, you can convey a nuanced meaning simply by choosing the right verb.

You should use strong verbs that are precise and dynamic. Whenever possible, you should use an unambiguous verb, rather than a generic verb.

For example, alter and fluctuate are stronger verbs than change , because they give the reader more descriptive detail.

Here are some useful verbs that will help make your essay shine.

Verbs that show change:

Verbs that relate to causing or impacting something:

Verbs that show increase:

Verbs that show decrease:

Verbs that relate to parts of a whole:

Incorporates

Verbs that show a negative stance:

Verbs that show a negative stance

Verbs that show a positive stance:

Verbs that relate to drawing conclusions from evidence:

Verbs that relate to thinking and analysis:

Verbs that relate to showing information in a visual format:

Useful Adjectives and Adverbs for Academic Essays

You should use adjectives and adverbs more sparingly than verbs when writing essays, since they sometimes add unnecessary fluff to sentences.

However, choosing the right adjectives and adverbs can help add detail and sophistication to your essay.

Sometimes you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is useful and should be taken seriously. Here are some adjectives that create positive emphasis:

Other times, you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is harmful or ineffective. Here are some adjectives that create a negative emphasis:

Finally, you might need to use an adverb to lend nuance to a sentence, or to express a specific degree of certainty. Here are some examples of adverbs that are often used in essays:

Using these words will help you successfully convey the key points you want to express. Once you’ve nailed the body of your essay, it’s time to move on to the conclusion.

The conclusion of your paper is important for synthesizing the arguments you’ve laid out and restating your thesis.

In your concluding paragraph, try using some of these essay words:

Example: In conclusion , it’s imperative that we take action to address climate change before we lose our coral reefs forever.

In addition to simply summarizing the key points from the body of your essay, you should also add some final takeaways. Give the reader your final opinion and a bit of a food for thought.

To place emphasis on a certain point or a key fact, use these essay words:

Example: Ada Lovelace is unquestionably a powerful role model for young girls around the world, and more of our public school curricula should include her as a historical figure.

These concluding phrases will help you finish writing your essay in a strong, confident way.

There are many useful essay words out there that we didn't include in this article, because they are specific to certain topics.

If you're writing about biology, for example, you will need to use different terminology than if you're writing about literature.

So how do you improve your vocabulary skills?

The vocabulary you use in your academic writing is a toolkit you can build up over time, as long as you take the time to learn new words.

One way to increase your vocabulary is by looking up words you don’t know when you’re reading.

Try reading more books and academic articles in the field you’re writing about and jotting down all the new words you find. You can use these words to bolster your own essays.

You can also consult a dictionary or a thesaurus. When you’re using a word you’re not confident about, researching its meaning and common synonyms can help you make sure it belongs in your essay.

Don't be afraid of using simpler words. Good essay writing boils down to choosing the best word to convey what you need to say, not the fanciest word possible.

Finally, you can use ProWritingAid’s synonym tool or essay checker to find more precise and sophisticated vocabulary. Click on weak words in your essay to find stronger alternatives.

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There you have it: our compilation of the best words and phrases to use in your next essay . Good luck!

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Hannah is a speculative fiction writer who loves all things strange and surreal. She holds a BA from Yale University and lives in Colorado. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her painting watercolors, playing her ukulele, or hiking in the Rockies. Follow her work on hannahyang.com or on Twitter at @hannahxyang.

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The Easy Guide To Writing An Essay In English

Worried about having to write essays this semester? There’s no need! We’ve put together a list of our top tips for writing essays in English when it’s not your first language.

When you’re at university in an English-speaking country, whether that’s the UK , Australia , or somewhere else, you’ll have to complete all kinds of assessments, from exams and oral presentations to extended essays. If English isn’t your first language, it’s normal for these to seem a bit daunting at first. But there’s no need to worry – here’s everything you’ll need to keep in mind…

1. Understand the question

Arguably the most important part of writing a good essay is knowing exactly what it is you’re supposed to write about! Whether you’re given a list of questions to choose from or you devise your own, it’s important to have complete clarity before you begin researching and writing.

Carefully read through the question, and highlight any key words that will help form the basis of your argument. Use a dictionary to translate any words you don’t recognise, or ask a local friend for help. You can also discuss the question with your professor in their office hour to smooth over any doubts you may have and make sure you know how you’ll go about answering it. Once everything is crystal-clear, you can get to work!

2. Do your research

Before you can even think about writing an essay, you need to do plenty of research. Gather information on the topic you are writing about and read as much as you can from a variety of different sources, including books, journals, interviews and newspaper articles. This can even include carrying out background reading in your native language, to make sure you fully understand the material – just make sure you don’t make any mistakes with the translation when you’re writing!

The more in-depth and solid your research is, the better your essay is going to be. Fact. Once you have read around the subject and researched the question in depth, you can come up with a thesis or idea that answers it and start to plan your essay meticulously.

Top tip: Make notes from your reading under full bibliographic reference headings – this will save you a lot of time when it comes to writing and putting the finishing touches on your essay later.

3. Don’t stress over structure

Once you’ve got a rough idea about what you want to say in your essay, you can start to plan it and think about its structure. Essays written in English usually follow the same three-step format: introduction, body and conclusion.

The introduction should present the topic of your essay to your reader – this is often done by making a thesis statement and plainly explaining how your paper will be organised.

In the body of the essay, you support the thesis with several arguments which are backed up using evidence drawn from your research. Always remember to PEEL ( P oint – make a point; E vidence – back it up with evidence (a quote, a statistic, a theory from your research); E xplain – why or how is this relevant to your argument?; L ink – Use a connective so that your argument flows from one paragraph to the next and is structured in a logical way).

The conclusion is the final part of your essay. Your conclusion should not only summarise the points you have made throughout the essay, but it should also tie all of your arguments together to further support your initial statement or thesis.

Respecting this structure is key to writing an essay that is easy to understand, and professors will reward you with high marks for doing so.

If you’ve never written an essay (in English, or in any language) before, this may all seem a little abstract or difficult. Don’t be shy – ask your professor for examples of previous students’ essays. Reading these will aid you in understanding how a good essay is structured, and make you a better writer.

4. Avoid overcomplicated language

When writing in a foreign language, it can be tempting to use a dictionary or thesaurus to find a more intelligent-sounding word. Even native English speakers struggle with academic writing from time to time, but there are certain tips and tricks that can make it easier. The real key to writing good essays in English is to use plain language which will convey your points clearly, using linking words to balance your argument. Linking words allow you to connect ideas, sentences and paragraphs to make your writing more fluid and logical. Examples include words like ‘therefore’, ‘however’, ‘furthermore’ and ‘thus’, or phrases like ‘on the one hand’, ‘in contrast’, ‘this shows that’, or ‘in conclusion’. You can find extensive lists online, so be sure to use them when writing your essay.

5. Abandon rogue apostrophes

There are only two instances where you need to use an apostrophe in the English language: to show possession (e.g. Mike’s apostrophe belongs to Mike) and in contractions (e.g. don’t – for do not misuse apostrophes).

Following this very simple rule will help you on your way to writing academic essays like a native. But you should bear in mind that academic writing is relatively formal, so a general rule of thumb is that contractions (like don’t, won’t, can’t etc) should not really be used, but instead their longer versions (do not, will not, can not) should be used. On the same note, avoid any colloquial expressions or slang words that you’ve picked up whilst making friends in English, as accidentally dropping these into your essay could cost you a few marks.

6. Get the hang of homophones

We know the English language can be complicated, and it is made all the more difficult because of sneaky words that sound the same but in fact have different spellings – these are called homophones.

Try reading this sentence out loud: “ They’re annoyed because their train was late in getting them there “. The three variations of there sound the same, right? But they have totally different definitions! Homophones are really easy to get the hang of, you just need to know how. To battle any uncertainty on this topic, read over websites like Homophone.com , which will help clear up any confusion and make sure you write the right words in your essays.

7. Avoid translating from your native language

When you’re struggling to express an idea in English, you may start trying to translate literally from your native language. The problem with translating is that the syntax (word order) used in your native language can be very different to English, and the resulting sentence will end up sounding awkward and unnatural, or just not make any sense at all.

Instead, ask a native English speaker for help. Try to explain to them what you want to say and see if they can come up with a phrase in English that encompasses your idea.

8. Use the right referencing system

Rules on referencing and citations will vary depending on where you study. There are several referencing systems in use across English-speaking universities, such as the Harvard System or the Chicago Manual of Style. Usually, before setting assessments, your university tutors and professors will confirm the referencing style you are to use. But it’s your job to familiarise yourself with the correct style guide so that your essays will be referenced properly, and you won’t drop marks for missing footnotes.

You can find a detailed guide on the Harvard System here and the quick guide to the Chicago Manual of Style here .

These days, it’s becoming increasingly popular for students to use built-in tools on word processing applications like Microsoft Word to help with their references, or free tools like RefME . Just remember to double-check your references and bibliography before handing in any piece of work.

9. Don’t plagiarise

This doesn’t just count for essay writing, but for all academic endeavours. Studying in English requires a lot of research from external sources, but if you forget to reference where you took an idea, quote or figure from, this can count as plagiarism. When you’re suspected of having plagiarised parts or all of your essay, consequences can range from deduction of marks to expulsion from university.

At times you may also copy parts of a text unintentionally. So before you submit your essay, run it through plagiarism detection tools like Plagtracker that compares your writing with websites and academic works and alert you if there’s any identical content. Some universities also have a compulsory rule to submit any work to sites like Turnitin before the hand-in date, so you can ensure your essay is free of plagiarism.

10. Take a break from your essay

As well as giving yourself enough time for preparation and planning, finishing before the deadline will also be hugely beneficial. Once you’ve finished (or you think you have), save your essay and leave it for a day or two. When you come back to it, you’ll be able to read through it with a pair of fresh eyes, making it much easier to identify English spelling or grammatical mistakes, or even flaws in your logic and structure.

Then, once you’ve made the final changes, hand it over to a native English speaker for proofreading. They’ll be able to spot errors you may have missed, which will hopefully take your essay to the next level.

Regardless of how many students claim to do this, starting an essay the night before it’s due is never a good idea. You need time to do your research, build a thesis and arguments, write the essay and have it looked over by someone else. If you rush it and only give yourself a few days for the entire process, you’ll likely end up with a low mark.

Handing in an essay on time is absolutely essential when studying at university. Some universities operate a no-tolerance late submission policy, though others will deduct a number of percentage points depending on how late the piece is. If you are worrying you won’t be able to get your work in on time, always check with your own department to see what the rules are.

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8 Tips to Write Better Essays in English

Learning a foreign language is an overwhelming experience, especially if it’s one of the most widely spoken languages in the world – English.

Many people are under the impression that learning to read and speak in English is enough without realizing that written English skills are an equally vital asset to have.

From improving academics to boosting career prospects – the ability to write in English not only lets you communicate and express yourself better in today’s globalized world but also makes you more confident.

An effective way to improve your writing skills is to write essays. Wondering where to begin? We bring you eight useful tips to write better essays in English.

1. Keep a Vocabulary Notebook

Using the right vocabulary is an essential element of writing essays. When you make efforts to expand your vocabulary, you will be able to pick accurate words to take your writing to the next level.

Instead of coming across new words and forgetting about them, it’s a good idea to make a note of them in your vocabulary notebook. Doing this helps you remember the meanings of new words and you can also refer to it while writing essays.

So, give yourself a target to learn at least ten new words every day, which you can jot down in your diary and take baby steps in building a strong vocabulary.

2. Refer to Credible Sources

Research forms the first step in writing any kind of essay. The stronger your research, the better is the quality of your essay.

At a time when we have access to a wide range of data, it’s important to evaluate research sources carefully and only refer to credible ones. For example, Wikipedia is not a reliable source and should not be attributed to while writing essays.

Take the effort to read through published journals, research studies, scholarly papers, academic databases, and encyclopedias published within the last 10-15 years. It’s also important to assess the credibility of the author while evaluating the source.

3. Draft a Basic Outline

Once you’ve done your research, don’t rush to write. Take a moment to draft a basic outline for your essay and organize your research and findings.

“Is that necessary,” you ask? Very much.

Working on an outline lets you approach the essay in an organized manner. It serves as the skeleton of your paper while ensuring you’re not missing out on any information and that your points flow logically.

Most essays are categorized into – introduction, body, and conclusion.

The introduction is where you introduce the topic and give context. The body paragraphs need to include your arguments and research methodology (if any). The conclusion needs to reiterate the thesis statement and tie all the points together.

4. Hook the Reader

With attention spans getting shorter with time, it’s become all the more important to start with a bang and hook the reader from the beginning to ensure they are invested in your writing.

Essay hooks refer to the first one or two sentences of your essay which have the power to make or break the reader’s interest. The key is to write a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and reels them in.

From an alarming statistic and relevant quote to using humor and asking a rhetoric question – there are various tactics you can employ to keep the reader engaged.

If you’re unable to think of an impactful essay hook, don’t waste too much time on it. Finish the rest of your essay and come back to write a compelling hook later.

5. Use the Pomodoro Technique

It’s not easy to write an essay in one go, especially if it’s not in your first language.

A smart way to approach essay writing is to use the Pomodoro technique. This technique asks you to set a timer for 25 minutes to finish your task in question and then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles of repeating this, you get to take an extended 20-minute break.

So, start with breaking down the assignment into smaller tasks such as research, outlining, writing the different paragraphs, citing references and proofreading. You can then set the timer, start working on the essay as per the technique and track your progress.

Using this technique keeps distractions at bay and helps you stay more focused.

6. Pay Attention to Grammar Rules

You may raise interesting points in your essay, but poor grammar disrupts the reading experience and should be avoided at all costs.

Be careful when adding punctuations, check your sentence formations, avoid passive voice as much as possible and know the difference between adjectives, adverbs, nouns and verbs.

So  abide by grammar rules to deliver a well-written and cohesive essay.

7. Write with Clarity

You might be tempted to use complex metaphors and jargons to impress the reader, but the truth is, none of that guarantees “good” writing.

One of the most important ingredients of effective writing is clarity. You don’t want to leave the reader confused and puzzled after reading your essay. So, use simple words, stop beating around the bush and explain concepts with the help of examples because clear writing always wins.

8. Reread the Essay

Finally, make it a point to proofread your essay (multiple times) to ensure you have covered all the aspects, cited references accurately and not made any silly errors.

It’s a good idea to read your essay out loud so you’re able to identify errors and awkwardly formed sentences with ease. You should also get a friend or family member to read your essay, to spot mistakes or discrepancies that you may have overlooked.

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34 comments

Thank a lot dear EnglishClub, it’s help me a lot

I think it is very good site for learn essay writing

As a teacher trainer this contribution is helpful

Thanks for the tips! I’ll have an essay tomorrow and this will surlely prepare me!

Thank you so much

Thanks Please I will like to know more

thank you so much for your amazing informations

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Nice one but I don’t understand yet

Knowledge supporter is who u are, keep d good work nd ur reward is from God nd thanks.

thanks alot for your tips…your tips will help me alot while examss!!!

Thank you so much for information ☺️

Thank you ☺️

Thank you 💯💯💯💯💯💯

My hobby is home garden

ur intentinon and thoughts was very nce its useful to somny pepole to learn english tysomuch adela belin

Thanks you for helping

This did help a lot! Thank you very much 🥰

Good tips, I should give it a try, after all, we all improve by exercising hard so I’ll just do the same thing, but right now I gotta focus on what matters, and what I need now is to read as much as I can to know how to spell the words right. Is grammar so important in this task, I mean can’t I just pick the things up because of my experience in listening skill ?

Thanks for the information!

This is a nice explanation ,,,,,proud of you!

Is very interesting for me I really apreicete you help

Thanks so much for these useful tips!! Now, I need to start preparing my essay (“starting” has been always the stone on my way :$)

Please, what is the difference between an essay and an article?

Are they same?

Thanks in advance,

Thanks & best regards English Club

Helpful updated tips to share with our students!! thankssss

I want to know if it is only at the University or if we may take the course online.

Thank you verry much for important advices

thank for your key points, this is really helpful

Thank you and best wishes,

Very pragmatic and helpful essay. Thank so much English club

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