Writing an essay is an easy task for some, but for others, it can feel like a hideous challenge. In this guide, we’ll dive into the biggest barriers that come with essay writing. By identifying what holds you back—such as weak points—you can better prepare yourself to overcome these obstacles. Achieving good grades requires understanding all the elements that contribute to academic success.
Even after learning ways to improve your essay grades, if you still find yourself struggling and aiming for A’s, consider seeking online assignment help from the students' favorite, AssignmentsGenius. Let’s begin by exploring the essential steps to writing a stellar essay.
If you’re looking to make a difference in your college grades quickly and inexpensively, follow these 12 expert suggestions. They will help you build the career you desire while improving your academic performance.
Before you start writing, ensure you fully understand the assignment’s requirements. Carefully read the instructions, highlight key aspects, and clarify any doubts with your professor. Pay attention to the following points to overcome essay struggles:
The type of essay (persuasive, analytical, argumentative, etc.)
Word count and formatting guidelines
Required sources and citation style
Specific questions or prompts to address
Having a clear grasp of what’s expected will help you structure your essay correctly and avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Your thesis statement is the backbone of your essay. It should clearly express your main argument or point in a concise sentence. A strong thesis statement:
Takes a clear stance
Is specific and debatable
Provides a roadmap for the essay
For example, instead of writing, “Climate change is a problem,” write, “Human activities, such as deforestation and fossil fuel consumption, are the primary contributors to climate change, making immediate action necessary.”
A well-researched essay stands out. Avoid relying on Wikipedia or random blogs. Instead, use credible sources like Google Scholar, JSTOR, or university databases. When researching:
Take organized notes and document sources correctly to avoid plagiarism.
Keep track of quotes and statistics.
Paraphrase information in your own words and cite sources properly.
Outlining your essay before writing saves time and ensures a logical flow. A standard structure includes:
Introduction:
Hook to grab attention (quote, statistic, question, or anecdote)
Brief background information
Thesis statement
Body Paragraphs (3-5 paragraphs):
Topic sentence introducing the paragraph’s main idea
Supporting evidence (quotes, examples, research)
Explanation and analysis
Transition to the next point
Conclusion:
Restate the thesis in different words
Summarize key points
End with a call to action to engage the reader.
Focus on one idea per paragraph and ensure smooth transitions between them. Use clear topic sentences and strong transitions. For example:
Instead of: “Social media affects people. It can be good or bad.”
Use: “Social media has a profound impact on communication, fostering global connections while also contributing to issues like cyberbullying.”
Coherence in your writing ensures that your ideas are logically connected, making your essay easy to follow.
Essays require strong arguments backed by solid evidence. Use:
Facts and Statistics: “According to a 2021 Pew Research study, 64% of teenagers have experienced online harassment.”
Expert Opinions: “Dr. John Geller, a psychology professor, explains that ‘social media-induced stress is now a common issue among young adults.’”
Examples: “For instance, Greta Thunberg’s activism has inspired millions to take action against climate change.”
Complex sentences can make your writing confusing. Keep your sentences clear and concise:
Avoid wordiness: “Due to the fact that” → “Because”
Break up long sentences: Instead of a 40-word sentence, split it into two.
Use active voice: “The researcher conducted the experiment” is clearer than “The experiment was conducted by the researcher.”
Never submit the first draft. Editing and proofreading refine your work and eliminate errors. Here’s how:
Take a break after writing before editing.
Check for clarity, coherence, and relevance.
Use grammar-checking tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor.
Read aloud to spot awkward phrasing.
Get feedback from someone else, as it’s often difficult to spot your own mistakes.
Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. Always credit your sources using the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). Keep track of:
Direct quotes
Paraphrased ideas
Statistics and data
Online citation tools like EasyBib or CiteThisForMe can help generate proper citations.
Time management is crucial to producing a high-quality essay without last-minute stress. Follow these strategies:
Break tasks into smaller steps: Research, outline, write, edit.
Set deadlines: Aim to complete the draft early to allow time for revisions.
Avoid procrastination: Use productivity techniques like the Pomodoro method (25-minute focus sessions with short breaks).
Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from teachers, peers, or writing tutors. Constructive criticism helps refine your writing and identify areas for improvement. Many universities also have writing centers where experts provide guidance.
Great essay writing takes practice. Instead of fearing mistakes, use them as learning opportunities. Analyze your professor’s comments and work on your weaknesses, whether it’s grammar, argument development, or structure.
Start with a clear thesis: Don’t lose track of your essay’s main argument.
Proofread: After finishing your draft, use online tools to spell-check, and if possible, proofread it after some time.
Choose a topic: Select a topic based on your experience or one provided by your college administrator.
Adhere to proper citation and referencing: Verify that you’re using the appropriate reference manual for your essay.
Essay writing doesn’t have to be a struggle. By understanding the assignment, crafting a strong thesis, conducting thorough research, and refining your writing, you can significantly boost your grades. Applying these expert tips will not only improve your essays but also enhance your critical thinking and communication skills—valuable assets in any academic or professional field. So, the next time you’re assigned an essay, don’t panic—use these strategies, write confidently, and watch your grades soar!