Improving Essay Writing

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is a possible approach to creating a post-outline for a shorter paper?

identifying the main point of each paragraph (correct)
breaking down the paper into sections and subsections
summarizing each page of the paper
reading the entire paper from start to finish

What should you pay attention to while reviewing your post-outline?

the use of transitions between paragraphs
the number of paragraphs in the paper
the flow of ideas and repetitiveness (correct)
grammar and spelling errors

What is a benefit of using a post-outline in the editing process?

it helps you to write a longer paper
it helps you to avoid using transitions
it helps you to identify repetitive points and reorganize them (correct)
it helps you to focus on grammar and spelling

Why is it important to review your post-outline for gaps in logic?

to ensure that your ideas are well-organized and flow logically (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a repetitive point that a post-outline can help you identify?

repeating the point that there is no crime deterrence factor in states that have the death penalty (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with repetitive points that you identify through your post-outline?

move them to where they belong in the paper (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible approach to creating a post-outline for a longer paper?

breaking down the paper into sections and subsections (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of creating a post-outline?

to identify areas where your ideas need improvement (C) Signup and view all the answers

What can you do with your post-outline once you have identified areas for improvement?

revise the paper to improve its organization and flow (C) Signup and view all the answers

What type of paper might benefit from a post-outline?

any type of paper (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should be your primary concern when reviewing your post-outline?

Logical progression of ideas (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to identify repetitive points in your paper?

To avoid confusing your readers (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common issue that a post-outline can help you identify?

Skipped steps in a process (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with your post-outline once it is complete?

Use it as a guide for your editing process (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a post-outline in the editing process?

To identify areas for improvement in your paper (A) Signup and view all the answers

How can a post-outline benefit your writing?

It helps you ensure logical progression of ideas (A) Signup and view all the answers

What can a post-outline help you see in your paper?

Gaps in logic and repetition (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should you focus on when reviewing your list of major points?

The logical progression of ideas (A) Signup and view all the answers

What might be a benefit of using a post-outline when writing a paper?

It helps you identify areas for improvement (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after listing out your major points?

Read through your list to ensure logical progression (B) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Improving Essay Content

When revising an essay, it's easy to focus on grammar, spelling, and punctuation, but substantial edits require improving the content itself.
To improve content, consider the purpose of the essay: is it to inform, persuade, or entertain? Ensure the purpose is clear and aligned with the thesis statement.

Clarifying the Essay's Purpose

Common issues with essay purpose include discovering that what should have been a persuasive paper is instead informative or descriptive.
Review the essay to identify instances where facts or examples are presented without explicit argumentation to support the main argument.
Fix this by following up each instance with persuasive statements arguing that the facts and examples support the main argument.

Refocusing the Thesis Statement

A clear thesis statement is essential; if missing, don't worry, as it can be developed and added during the editing process.
Examine the essay question and major points made throughout the body paragraphs to develop a strong thesis statement.
Improve the thesis statement by making it more specific, tying it to the rest of the essay, and positioning it naturally in the first paragraph.

Strengthening Main Points

Review each body paragraph to ensure a clear main point that supports the thesis statement.
If a paragraph has gone off-track, consider deleting or redirecting it to align with the main point of the essay.
Check for missing major points and add paragraphs to address any gaps.

Including Sufficient Details

Ensure supporting details are included to avoid vague or general statements.
Review the essay to identify and address any unproven assertions or general statements.
Use details to explain processes and provide evidence to support arguments.

Improving Organization

Outlining the paper after it's written can help identify organization issues and improve the paper's structure.
Create a quick list of major points to ensure the progression makes sense and identify any gaps or repetitive points.
Use this process to refine the paper's organization and flow.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Learn how to effectively revise and improve your essay content. Go beyond just checking for spelling and grammar errors. Discover the secrets to making your essay stand out. Take this quiz to test your knowledge and skills!