Academic Writing Steps
- Step 1: Choose an essay topic
- Step 2: Dissect your essay topic
- Step 3: Rewrite the essay question
- Step 4: Begin gathering broad ideas
- Step 5: Brainstorm
- Step 6: Develop a thesis
- Step 7: Read to support your thesis
- Step 8: Draw a mind map
- Step 9: Write an essay proposal
- Step 10: Draft your introduction
- Step 11: Write the first draft of the essay
- Step 12: Check your draft for problems
- Step 13: Second draft
- Steps 14–16: Proofread and edit your essay
Step 1 how to choose an essay topic
You may have to choose an essay topic from a list of alternatives. If you do, there are three questions to ask yourself.
- Am I confident that I can answer this question based on the knowledge I have and the resources I need to use?
- If so, will I be able to answer the question comprehensively within the time limit and its word limit?
- Will this question provide enough scope for me to demonstrate my knowledge and ability to construct a sound argument?
Some students assume the question with the least words will be the easiest. This is a false assumption.
For the step-by-step essay writing process presented here, this essay topic has been chosen:
Some consider that happiness is about how a person feels right now. Others think happiness is about our long-term sense of meaning or purpose. Compare and contrast these two viewpoints. Explain which is more persuasive.