Strategies To Follow
Choose a familiar topic
It’s generally a good idea to choose topics that interest you and that you already know a little about. If, however, you don’t have time to put in all of the work to study something that is fairly new, it’s best to stick with something you already know quite a bit about. Consider something you have already written on so you can save time finding that all important background info. For example, if you have previously written on a specific novel or author in another class, then you might want to see how you can incorporate some of that work into your current assignment.
Use established techniques
All good writing comes from using established techniques. So what does this mean? It means chosen essay formats you know have worked in the past for you. A tried and proven format is the 1-2-3 format, which includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. If you are given an assignment with prompts then you should develop an outline for your paper that matches the components of your chosen prompt exactly. Sticking with established techniques will lead to more success, and more importantly will help you get through your essay without putting in all of that effort.
Use quotes and paraphrased content
One of the best ways to write a great paper without much effort is to use quotes and paraphrased content liberally and for lines at a time. A great quote from a historical, well-known person can enhance your paper as well as take up a significant deal of space. Just be sure that you aren’t simply copying quotes for the sake of it. Whatever you do decide to use should be relevant to the content, as well as add value to your main argument. At no point should your reader wonder why you have decided to use a specific quote. Insertions should be seamless and shouldn’t be a distracting in any way.
Stay current with your content
A relevant paper is always a much more appreciated work than writing on a topic that very few feel is important. If you can comment on a current medical, social, or political issue you’ll have a better chance of getting a good grade. Staying current lets you work using terms or concepts you are familiar with and comfortable talking about, and it also allows you to connect with your audience more easily than writing on a topic that is obscure or dated. Just like using quotations and paraphrased content, it’s important that your comments and analysis seem as natural as possible.
Draw on personal experiences
This piece of advice is great if you are writing a creative essay, but it also works well when writing about academic subjects like philosophy or literature. Just think about how your introduction and conclusion can be well-composed using a story from your personal life that has inspired or led you to write a specific topic. By drawing on your personal experiences you won’t have to spend so much time researching new content. You’re writing will also be easier to connect with since it will seem much more enthusiastic and inviting in what otherwise can be too dry and academic.