<p>I'd love to hear from other CC users regarding their tips for writing in-class essays. I know this is a vital skill to have for exams, but I can't quite seem to get the hang of it. I'm fairly certain that I tend to over-think and get nervous, which leads to not being able to put forth my very best effort. How do you write concise and accurate essays efficiently within a time limit? Thanks so much for your input!</p>
<p>You want to write with a fluent and natural pattern, as though you were talking to someone in real life. Do not attempt to use many long words for the sake of making your essay sound more “mature” or “intellectual.” Most of the time, you will end up sounding chopping and unnatural. Basically, only use words that come directly to your head as you’re writing. </p>
<p>Also, be sure to proof read if you have time. It is vital to have proper grammar (not so much proper spelling) when it comes to in-class essays. You want to ensure that the reader can scan through your essay with ease. If your reader has to pause because of a grammatical error, this will hinder the overall effect of your writing.</p>
<p>Think as you write. Read the prompt and get a general idea. Scribble down a couple main ideas for bodies if they come to you, but don’t waste too much time. In your introduction you basically just want any relevant definitions or background info (you could be defining something like judicial review, in American History, or outlining a particular construct that you’re going to go more in-depth about in English, for example) (keep it concise, though) and then a good thesis (think about this as you write any definitions).</p>
<p>Small transitions work well because they’re easy and make the piece seem relatively polished for an in-class essay. Then write topic sentence for your first body, basically what will be in that paragraph and why it relates to thesis. Repeat for other paragraphs. Do a 1-2 sentence conclusion.</p>
<p>This is kind of assuming you are pressed for time.</p>
<p>Come up with at least a rough outline before you start writing. When you write out your outline, all of the topic sentences and points should be cohesive.
Have a hook, a transition, and a thesis in your intro and solid arguments in each paragraph culminating in your final body paragraph/conclusion. Once you’ve made your ultimate point in your last body paragraph, recap and then go further in your conclusion.
If you get stuck somewhere [can’t find the right evidence in the text, can’t think of the right word, can’t come up with enough points], leave some space, underline it, and move on. Odds are, the right thing to write will come to you while you’re writing the rest of your essay.</p>
<p>Let your imagination flow freely.</p>
<p>Edit: also, if anything really good comes to you [a phrase, a point], just scribble it somewhere. ***** like that is mad helpful sometimes.</p>
<p>I write the entire thing the night before and try to memorize that after I’ve edited it and then its easier because I’ve already done it</p>