Q Manual

7 Essay Writing

7.1 Introduction

One of the common types of assignments that you will be required to complete, is the `essay'. Most essays fall into two categories: descriptive and argumentative. A descriptive approach requires you to list important points and usually your opinion is not required. On the other hand, an argumentative approach is one in which you have to state your opinion and defend it by providing supporting arguments. Both of these approaches require a logically organised essay.

Regardless of the approach adopted in the essay, there are a number of features that all essays contain. These general features are listed below.

7.1.1 Abstract/synopsis

  • Summary of the aims, method and conclusions of the essay which precedes the introduction.
  • It is written on a separate page with the heading `Abstract/Synopsis'.
  • Roman numerals are used for page numbering.

7.1.2 Introduction

  • Foundation sentences (optional) set the scene for the essay by introducing the topic in some meaningful context (e.g. give background information on the topic).
  • Thesis statement - summarises the main idea of the essay (usually in one sentence).
  • Define key terms*.
  • Structure of argument - a sentence or two telling your reader how you have organised your essay.
*These can also be written in the body of the essay.

7.1.3 Body/development of topic

  • Develop the essay topic.
  • Use different headings to break up your essay into different sections.
  • Divide each section into X number of paragraphs.
  • One paragraph should introduce and develop one idea that relates to the topic. This idea should be introduced in the topic sentence (see section 4.4.4).
  • Make use of written sources to support your points (do not forget referencing).
  • Present a logical and reasoned argument.

7.1.4 Conclusion

  • Do not merely present a summary statement.
  • Do not introduce new ideas.
  • Content will depend on nature of essay (sections 7.2 and 7.3 - Descriptive and Argument-ative Essays).
  • Aim to leave a lasting impression of your topic in the reader's mind.

7.1.5 Bibliography/reference list

  • The last section of your essay will be the bibliography. It contains an alphabetical list of allreferences cited in your essay.
    Note: Business essays in this faculty contain headings. However, always consult your tutor's specific assignment requirements.


7.2 Descriptive essays

Below is a list of suggested guidelines for writing a descriptive essay. For more details and examples, it is recommended that you consult the source listed at the end of section 7.3.

    Suggested guidelines: The Descriptive Essay

    Introduction

    When you write your introduction, ask the following questions:
    1. Do I need to define any of the terms in the title?
    2. Why is the topic I am writing about important?
    3. How can I limit my discussion?
    4. Can I break up my task into a number of areas?


    Body/Development Of Topic

    Each paragraph:

    • begins with a restatement of the last sentence of your introduction;
    • states your information in detail;
    • ends with an example.


    Conclusion

    You can do the following things:
    Write about the future implications of what you have described.

      or
    Write about the influence of what you have described on wider issues.
      or
     Suggest how the situation could be improved in some way.


7.3 Argumentative essays

An argumentative essay requires you to express one point of view and defend it. Once again below is a list of suggested guidelines for writing the essay. It is recommended that you consult the original source of this information which is provided at the end of this section.

Suggested guidelines: The Argumentative Essay

Introduction

The introduction should have:
1. links between the topic and a recent event;
2. an issue, phrased as a question;
3. a section containing one counter-argument to your own point of view;
4. a main idea statement (MIS) which is your own point of view.

Remember:

  • an issue is a question; it does not contain supporting reasons;
  • an MIS is a statement;
  • it is the last sentence of the paragraph;
  • it does not contain any supporting reasons;
  • it is the answer to the question posed by the issue;
  • most of the words in the MIS are the same as those in the issue.

Body/ Development Of Topic

Each support paragraph should

1. begin with a restatement of the MIS;
2. contain only one support;
3. end with an example.

Remember: Support paragraphs should not contain any suggestions.


Conclusion

The conclusion should have a solution to the problem posed by your issue (a suggestion).
Remember: This should not simply repeat your supports so far.
Note: If the essay is both descriptive and argumentative, then it is expected that whilst providing factual material on the essay topic, you must also incorporate your opinion and justify it by providing relevant evidence/references.

Source: Smith, M. and Smith, G. (1988), A Study Skills Handbook, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.


Sample Essay

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