Student survival guide: Essays - the gateway to a degree

By ED MASON*

The academic essay is a big part of a tertiary student's apprenticeship. It helps to focus and develop thought for a knowledge society.

Essays may examine an academic debate, analyse a point of view, develop an argument or a combination of these requirements.

Many lecturers like to include a controversial statement which requires a reasoned response.

A successful essay is built on several foundations.

Pinpoint the key question and follow the instructions.

Ask yourself what issues are being raised? What is your first response to the topic? What do you already know about the subject? Where could you find out more? What needs explanation or development?

The introduction should set out clearly the intent of your essay.

If there is a debate to examine you need to clearly state the outlines of the competing views and acknowledge the main proponents.

Define technical terms you use to avoid confusing the reader.

Many students fail to focus their reading, and others do not consult widely enough.

First research stop should always be the library. Take the tour - the website will give you access to an amazing range of material.

Your lecturer may have given a reading list. You might also ask him or her about the value of sources you have found.

General texts on your topic may help to frame your thinking, but your reading must go deeper - journals, specialist texts and official documents or primary evidence such as letters and interviews will build your case.

Take notes along the way. It saves frustrating backtracking when you have to attribute sources and ensures your information is accurate.

And your lecturer may also want to verify your references.

Without those details you cannot ethically use crucial information you have found and opinions you form will be your unsupported view and will not get academic credit.

References are an academic requirement and a courtesy. They show respect for the efforts of others and lend weight to your own thinking.

Remember, if in doubt use a reference. Plagiarism is the major academic sin.

Many students fail to plan their essay. List the key points you must make to successfully argue your point - in a logical sequence.

Test the outline against the question to ensure you have answered properly.

Linking ideas is part of the process of planning. Use phrases such as "for example", "however" or "Jones argues that".

These give your essay a narrative flow and help to weave in supporting material.

Be sure you leave at least two days to tighten your draft - poorly executed essays don't score top marks.

Spelling errors are inexcusable and correct grammar essential. Many tertiary institutions provide help in this regard.

Essay style is reasonably formal so statements such as, "The facts seem to show that" are preferable to "I think".

Enjoy your essay writing experience. Your brain will appreciate the exercise.

* Ed Mason is a senior lecturer in Unitec's school of communication.