Have you been struggling with the finer points of essay writing? Whether referring to the structure, the content, the citations, or the overall presentation, there are plenty of ways to overcome such stumbling blocks. Let’s have a look at some common mistakes to avoid at all costs, and how you can ensure that the final copy leaves a positive impression. Whether you have recently begun tackling a project, or you happen to be a seasoned veteran hoping to augment your existing set of skills, the advice below will provide additional insight.
Avoid Copyright Issues
There is certainly nothing wrong with paraphrasing the work of others. However, keep in mind that certain techniques might result in copyright violations (especially if a section of text is copied word for word). The best way to account for this variable is to use a trusted online plagiarism checker (the system offered by BachelorPrint is an extremely popular example). When in doubt, it always pays to take a closer look at what has already been written before submitting your essay.
Create a Concise Game Plan
Knowing how to structure an essay is one of the most fundamental skills to possess and yet, many students fail to implement this basic concept. The end result is a paper that lacks cohesion, and you might not be able to get your point across. Be sure to create a clear template consisting of defined sections such as the introduction, the main body, and the conclusion. This will also enable you to tackle each portion in a piecemeal fashion; an additional advantage when discussing complicated subjects.
Professional Online Assistance
The number of virtual essay writing platforms has advanced in leaps and bounds over the past few years. This is great news if you are having difficulty curating a quality text. Still, remember that these portals are only meant to be used for ancillary assistance. Never assume that you can simply assign a project to a third-party writer. While this might appear to represent the easiest solution, the vast majority of academic institutions frown upon such practices. Your grade might be negatively affected as a result.
The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence
What about artificial intelligence? Can these systems be used to write an essay? AI offers several pronounced benefits; the most relevant being the fact that these algorithms can collate large amounts of data within a matter of seconds. However, note that some pitfalls also exist. Common examples include:
- A lack of creativity
- Data that may not be relevant to the subjects
- In certain instances, incorrect citations
- Text that appears “clumsy” or is not grammatically correct
- The bottom line is simple. Although artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that can assist your efforts, this technology should never represent the only solution at your disposal.
- It could also be wise to consult a professor if you have additional questions that need to be clarified. He or she will always be more than happy to help.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
