As a student, you must write a variety of essays during your education journey. Essay writing forms an important part of your academics. It is a skill that allows students to showcase how well they understand the subject and develop their critical thinking alongside structured argumentation capabilities. You also need patience to succeed in this art. Applying the appropriate strategies and a positive mindset can make the process manageable and enjoyable.
However, the process will never lack its challenges. Such challenges can range from understanding the topic to time management, writer’s block, and audience engagement. This article highlights some of the challenges alongside practical solutions students can use in navigating the hurdles.
Contents
The Lack of Focus or Direction
Source: canva.com
Identifying the Core Question:
You will note that several students start writing essays before clearly understanding the required prompt. The best way to approach such an issue is by dissecting the question at hand, breaking it into parts, and getting the key elements and what you need to do. Seek clarification from the instructor if you are unsure about something.
Setting Clear Objectives:
After understanding the question, you develop clear objectives that you wish to achieve with your essay. What do you wish to discuss, convey, or argue within the essay? Once you have clearly outlined objectives, it guides you in researching and writing.
Consulting an Extended Essay Writer:
When you face complex topics, it is advisable to consult an ‘extended essay writer‘ who will share valuable insights. Such a writer will clarify the prompt and suggest the direction your essay should take. This helps you to maintain a focused approach.
Difficulty Finding and Integrating Sources
Source: allendalecolumbia.org
Effective Research Techniques:
You need to identify relevant or credible sources to use in your research. Check out academic databases/journals and libraries directly connected to your topic. Bookmark and systematically organize any relevant information to smoothen your writing process.
Critical Analysis of Sources:
Once you have obtained your sources, check through them critically. Ensure you select those supporting your argument or adding value to the essay.
Developing a Thesis Statement:
You need to understand that the thesis statement forms the foundation of the essay. Make it clear and concise, and present the main argument. Refine the statement where possible as a way of unifying the direction you take.
Seamless Integration:
Integrating sources successfully is an art in itself. Make sure you uniquely paraphrase the originals or quote them where necessary. Correctly citing your sources helps in avoiding plagiarism.
Lack of Clarity or Coherence
Source: essayedge.com
Creating an Outline:
The outline serves as the blueprint or roadmap of the essay. It is a wonderful tool to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of all the points you write. Each point should be in support of your thesis statement. Structure your essay to clearly show the introduction, body, and conclusion.
Craft an engaging introduction, knowing that it sets the essay’s tone. Use a hook to start the paragraph, attract the reader’s attention, and give background information.
Paragraph Structure:
Maintain the slogan of one paragraph one main idea, starting with the topic sentence. Go ahead and support each idea with examples or evidence. With such organization, you will maintain clarity and coherence within the essay.
Transitional Phrases:
Use transitional phrases to link your ideas. This ensures that your essay flows smoothly from one point to another, enhancing readability.
Time Management and Procrastination
Source: internationalstudent.com
Setting a Schedule:
Time management is key. Come up with a writing schedule that specifies the deadlines for each essay part. Use your time wisely and avoid last-minute rushes.
Break Down the Task:
Break the essay into smaller tasks and handle some bits each day. You become less overwhelmed, and you won’t procrastinate at all.
Reward System:
Always reward yourself for each achieved goal. You get the motivation to stay on course and make everything enjoyable.
Originality and Plagiarism
Source: medium.com
Developing a Unique Voice:
Write your essay in a way that reflects your unique perspective. Make sure you blend your research, thoughts, and insights in a unique way.
Citing Sources Properly:
You need to understand the citation styles and use them correctly. You enhance credibility and avoid plagiarism. Such styles may include MLA, APA, Harvard, and others.
Using Plagiarism Checkers:
Check your essay using the plagiarism checkers, ensuring originality is maintained. Always do this before submission.
Writer’s Block
Source: sunsentinel.com
Freewriting:
Whenever you feel you can’t write anymore, it is time to try out freewriting. Note down anything crossing your mind within a few minutes, and stop worrying about grammar or structure.
Change of Scenery:
Move from one environment to another. This could be a gem in avoiding being blocked and enhancing creativity.
Discuss with Others:
Invite other people to discuss your essay, which can be a good way to bring new ideas and perspectives.
Revisions and Editing
Take a Break Before Editing:
A break helps you relax your mind. Fresh eyes can help you identify errors and improve your essay.
Seeking Feedback:
Connect with instructors or peers who can give you feedback and suggestions on where to improve.
Final Proofreading:
There is power in proofreading. Review the essay multiple times to identify style errors, grammar mistakes, punctuation, and unnecessary phrasing.
A Noisy Environment
Source: nearctis-vce.eu
Finding a Quiet Space:
Before you start writing, make sure you identify a quiet area that has fewer to no distractions. Such a place will help you write well.
Using Noise-Canceling Headphones:
If no alternative environment is available, then use noise-canceling headphones to help you remain focused.
Establishing Boundaries:
Notify those around you of the schedule you have dedicated to writing. Once they know such, they will try to minimize interruptions.
The Fear of Rejection
Positive Mindset:
Let your mind be free and enjoy the learning process without focusing more on the outcome. Each essay provides a learning opportunity.
Constructive Criticism:
Be ready for the feedback you get from instructors or peers. Constructive criticism helps you learn more and grow.
Conclusion
Source: goalcast.com
Essay writing is a unique skill you learn and improve through practice and the use of the appropriate techniques. We have seen several challenges that may crop up. A student can produce engaging and insightful articles through practice and a good approach. Embrace each challenge, and write well, knowing each essay is a step towards becoming proficient and confident.
