Learn More About Writing

From Good to Better

Okay, so you know that you are a good writer. You also know that good writing could be better, and "better good writing" could even be better. Unfortunately, this leaves you in a bit of a predicament as you endlessly spot (or invent) flaws in your "almost perfect" writing.

Here are some tips for improving good writing. They are rough guidelines that don't always apply, but if you pick and choose, you will see results.

• Make sure that your introductory paragraph gives your thesis the respect that it deserves in a clear and and enticing fashion. Perhaps include a thought-provoking example of your argument.
• While strong and coherent arguments are fine, exposing a different – even contradictory – position can bring your paper to a higher level.
• Although you may feel much more strongly about some components of your thesis than others, have you been able to give the proper attention to all of the ideas that you present? If your argument is too unbalanced, consider eliminating a smaller aspect of it while expanding on a larger one. Or, cut back on a larger aspect and add to a smaller one.
• Examine the end of each paragraph in the context of the beginning of the next to ensure a logical flow. This sometimes involves stretching your imagination, but be sure to somehow tie your paragraphs together.
• While a recap of your entire paper is effective, consider the added effect of making your essay linger in the reader's mind. Perhaps give a real-world application of your arguments; consider the past, present, and future to search for powerful implications.

Though these strategies will help you, be sure to utilize what has already made your paper a good one. You are a good writer; go with your instinct. Experimenting with new styles will only improve your writing in the future. Play. Have fun...and have someone else who is experienced and responsive read your paper.

>>>A Process For Writing