In many public exams and competitive selections—such as civil service tests, university entrance exams, or scholarships—essay writing is one of the most important parts of the evaluation. A well-written essay can set you apart from the competition and significantly boost your overall score. However, writing a successful essay in this context requires more than just writing well; it demands strategy, structure, and mastery of time. In this article, we’ll explore practical techniques that can improve your performance and increase your chances of approval.
1. Understand the Evaluation Criteria
Before anything else, it’s essential to understand how essays are graded in public exams. Each institution or examining board will have its own criteria, but most look for the following:
- Clarity and coherence
- Consistency and relevance of arguments
- Proper use of grammar and spelling
- Adequate structure (introduction, development, and conclusion)
- Critical thinking and originality
Read the Guidelines Carefully
If the exam provides a prompt, be sure to analyze it carefully. Identify whether it’s a dissertation-argumentative, expository, narrative, or reflective essay. Misunderstanding the format or writing style required can lead to serious point deductions.
2. Practice Time Management
Most essay tasks in public exams are timed, so writing efficiently is crucial. The ability to write a clear, structured, and complete essay in a limited amount of time is a skill that requires practice.
Use a Writing Schedule
Divide your time into blocks:
- 5 minutes: Read and interpret the topic
- 5–10 minutes: Plan your structure (outline)
- 20–30 minutes: Write the full text
- 5–10 minutes: Revise and correct mistakes
Sticking to a structured plan can help reduce anxiety and ensure you don’t leave your essay incomplete.
3. Plan Before You Write
Planning your essay is one of the most effective ways to save time and produce a high-quality result. Without a plan, it’s easy to get lost or go off-topic.
Create an Outline
Before you start writing, quickly sketch an outline:
- Introduction: Present the theme and your thesis
- Development (2–3 paragraphs): Each paragraph should cover a single argument with examples or data
- Conclusion: Summarize your points and close the discussion, possibly with a proposal or reflection
An outline acts as a guide, keeping your writing focused and organized.
4. Build a Strong Introduction
The introduction is your first opportunity to impress the evaluator. It should be clear, concise, and directly related to the topic.
Use a Contextual Hook
Start with a general idea that introduces the subject. This could be a historical fact, a current event, or a brief reflection.
Example:
“In recent decades, the expansion of social media has reshaped human interaction, raising new questions about privacy and ethics.”
Present the Thesis
End your introduction with a clear thesis that indicates the central idea or position you will defend in the essay.
5. Structure the Body with Clear and Relevant Arguments
The body is the most important part of your essay. Each paragraph should cover a distinct point that supports your thesis.
Use Topic Sentences
Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that states the main idea.
Example:
“One of the major consequences of misinformation on social media is the erosion of public trust in journalism.”
Support Your Ideas
Use examples, data, comparisons, or analogies to reinforce your arguments. If you don’t have specific data, create logical arguments that demonstrate critical thinking.
6. Write a Strong Conclusion
Your conclusion should summarize the points discussed and reinforce your thesis. It’s your last chance to leave a positive impression on the evaluator.
Reaffirm Your Position
Briefly restate the main arguments in different words.
Example:
“Given the harmful effects of misinformation, it’s clear that regulating digital platforms is essential to maintaining a healthy democracy.”
Suggest Solutions (When Appropriate)
Some exams value essays that not only diagnose problems but also offer solutions. If the format allows, conclude with a thoughtful proposal or reflection.
Example:
“Educational initiatives and more transparent content regulation could help reduce the spread of fake news online.”
7. Avoid Common Mistakes
Certain errors are frequently penalized in essay exams. Knowing what to avoid can be just as important as knowing what to do.
Do Not Go Off-Topic
One of the most serious mistakes in essay exams is deviating from the proposed theme. Stay focused and make sure every paragraph relates to your thesis.
Avoid Repetition and Redundancy
Don’t repeat the same idea in different words. Each paragraph should contribute something new to the discussion.
Be Careful with Grammar and Spelling
Mistakes in grammar and spelling can seriously harm your grade, even if your content is strong. Always leave time at the end for a quick revision.
8. Read and Practice Constantly
Like any skill, essay writing improves with practice. The more you write, the more confident and efficient you become.
Analyze Model Essays
Study essays that received high grades in previous exams. Observe how arguments are constructed, how transitions are used, and how conclusions are formulated.
Simulate Real Exam Conditions
Regularly practice writing essays under time constraints. This will help you develop the ability to write quickly and clearly under pressure.
