1. Basic steps to writing an effective essay CC200 Classical World January 28, 2010

2. Understanding what we mean by “effective” • Argument or thesis • Coherent prose • Logical organization • Evidence • Persuasion • Summarizing conclusion

3. First steps • Read • Assess the assignment • Organize your thoughts • Choose the theme • Outline the core

4. Structure • Effective paragraphs • Topic sentence • Elaboration • Ineffective paragraphs • 1-2 sentences • 2+ main ideas • Rule of thumb • 1-2 paragraphs/page • Guide the reader • Avoid long quotations • Cite appropriately

5. Opening paragraph • “Introduction” < intro + ducere (Latin), “to lead in” • Clear statement of question/issue • Appeal to reader’s interest • Appeal to writer’s interest • Outline of sources • Chronological / cultural scope of sources • Transition

6. Final paragraph • “Conclusion” < con + claudere (Latin), “to shut together” • No new material, concepts, evidence • No simple restatement • “So what?” Why should the reader care? • Placing your ideas and the question in larger context • Considering your ideas and the question in a new way or from a new perspective

7. Path to success • “Revision” < re- + videre(Latin), “to see again” • Revision as opposed to ἀπολογία (apologia), “defense” • Reading aloud • Writing an outline based on the draft • Courage to slash and burn • Align the introduction and conclusion • Proofread • Essay Guidelines & Academic Integrity Checklist: