Essays are basically articles that support the argument of the author but there is no one definition to limit it to just that. Essays comprise a large amount of weighting in tests and exams so it is essential to make sure for a student that he has ample practice and research conducted before attempting an essay test.

While taking an essay test, students must first understand the requirement of the essay whether it requires analysis (break the topic & discuss, interpret), contrast (it involves highlighting the differences), comparison (compare and analyze, give similarities and differences both), evaluation (give your personal opinion or cite a scholar’s), summarize (this would require a brief explanation, conclusion) etc. All these aspects define the course you are required to take while attempting the test.

Following are the tips students must take in order to be more productive while writing an essay:

• Read the question first, thoroughly! You should know what is required of you in the essay question and take in account the weighting (if given), total questions to be attempted and the time limit.
• Manage Time –This is very important. You’ve to make sure you divide the time according to the number of questions you have to attempt and also leave some time for revision and correction.
• Organize your Essay –It happens most of the times that you forget important points while writing an essay so it is always better to write an outline so you know what points you must cover and also gives a meaning (structure) to your essay and saves time.
• Give Introduction –To introduce your topic, your approach and arguments are very important. A strong introduction gives you the upper hand and decides the mood of the instructor.
• Focused Paragraphs –Put each point in a paragraph and try concluding it before heading towards the next point to be explained.
• Don’t Give Unnecessary Explanations –Explain but don’t try stretching it beyond required. Instructors have a way of detecting when the student is just filling pages. So stick to the point.
• Present Your Argument –You should focus on the structure and validity of your argument. Back it up with facts. Give examples as it gives a clear picture.
• Avoid Kitchen-Sink Approach –Students have the habit of dumping all the information they have about the topic without giving it a direction or sense. Don’t do that.
• Avoid doubtful statements –When you’re not sure about something, don’t quote it. Or if you still do then avoid definite statements, for example, it is better to write “towards the end of the 20th century” than “1990”.
• Conclusion –Do not write a detailed conclusion if not required but do bring a decent end to your essay.
• Revise –Saving time for revision is beneficial as it helps in the correction of the mistakes.
• Handwriting –Your essay should be neat. Clarity matters a lot as the instructor has limited time and a lot of papers to grade.