Resources for Success
Writer’s ✓ List
Content/Organization
❑ Did I write about the topic?
❑ Did I write a thesis statement that clearly focuses on the topic?
❑ Did I use multiple paragraphs to create an introduction, body, and conclusion?
❑ Did I include relevant supporting details to develop my topic or position?
❑ Did I use purposeful transitions within and between paragraphs?
❑ Did I organize my response in a manner that is appropriate for the topic?
❑ Did I address the appropriate audience and purpose in my response?
Sentence Structure
❑ Did I vary the structure and length of my sentences in a meaningful way?
❑ Did I use sentence variety to create an effective flow of ideas?
Language
❑ Did I consistently use language that is precise, powerful, and appropriate?
❑ Did I use language to enhance the development and the clarity of my ideas?
Writing Conventions
❑ Did I correct any errors in spelling, usage, punctuation, and capitalization?
❑ Did I print or write clearly?
Writing Hit List
Herewith are several specific tips to better your writing. The list is not all-inclusive, and you may be adding to it as necessary.
1. Check all words that you suspect you spelled wrong by a dictionary for correct spelling.
2. Avoid using vague terms and words that do not create a specific image. Here is a list of words to avoid; if you use them, ferret them out and replace with bold, specific, and/or vivid words.
AVOID THESE WORDS & PHRASES
a lot
so
it (without an antecedent)
kinda
gotta
outta
like
(slang)
ima
bad
really
very
stuff
all slang words
everywhere
nowhere
anywhere
anybody
somebody
no body
everybody
great
nice
good
something
anything
everything
nothing
somewhere
sorta
lots
some
few
thing
3. Use vivid verbs instead of boring, everyday verbs. Example: instead of I walked, say, I pranced, or I
sallied, or I bounded.
4. Use vivid adjectives to modify and describe.
5. Create vivid images for your reader to “see” by using clear and interesting metaphors and similes.
6. Spell out most numbers; it shows you are taking your time and being thorough.
7. Avoid an informal tone; you are writing formal essays so speak formally.
8. Avoid using the second person, “you” in your essay. Address a specific audience or say “a person,” “an
individual,” or “one."
9. Avoid hyphenating words—if you do it incorrectly it does not bode well; so avoid the issue and just go to the next line.
10.Avoid using contractions; if you do not do it correctly, it does not bode well so; write out the words and avoid the issue. Would not instead of wouldn’t
11.Substitute new words (use a thesaurus) for tired, old, and overused words and phrases. Example: He was very sad> He grew increasingly melancholy.
12. Do not shift verb tenses.
13. USE THERE, THEIR, THEY’RE CORRECTLY
14. USE WHERE, WERE, WEAR, WE’RE CORRECTLY
15. WENT DOES NOT HAVE AN H
16. Be sure pronoun antecedents are used correctly.
17. Avoid “signposting.”
18. Use a catchy title.
19. Avoid opening your essay with a goofy question that mirrors the prompt—write a snazzy, jazzy attention-getting, thought-provoking first paragraph.
20. Correct all Sentence Fragments.
21. Correct all Run-on Sentences and comma splice run-ons.
22. Precise word choice—and do not get wordy, rambly, and long-winded. Say what you have to say and stop. Say what you mean/mean what you say.
23.Indent each new paragraph.
24. Write legibly.